Zanzibar: Prison Island Tour + Spice Tour & Stone town Tour

Exploring Zanzibar with the Prison Island, Spice Tour, and Stone Town Tour

Getting a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar can be tricky with so many options vying for your attention. That’s where this full-day tour from Zanzibar Home Tours & Safari offers a balanced blend of nature, history, and local life, all packed into one immersive experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the island’s most iconic sights with ease.

Three things we love about this tour: First, the chance to feed and swim with the giant tortoises—a truly memorable, hands-on experience. Second, exploring the UNESCO-listed Stone Town, with its winding alleys, historical sites, and vivid local scenes. Third, the spice farm visit, where you’ll learn about Zanzibar’s famous spices and taste tropical fruits straight from the trees.

One consideration: The itinerary involves quite a bit of moving between sites, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a structured schedule and some walking. The tour price of $100 per person offers good value if you’re eager to see a variety of sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

This experience suits travelers interested in a comprehensive day trip—perfect for first-time visitors wanting to tick off major highlights while enjoying insightful local guides.

Contents show

Key Points

All-in-one experience: Combines Prison Island, Spice Farm, and Stone Town in one day.
Authentic encounters: Feeding giant tortoises and tasting fresh tropical fruits.
Cultural immersion: Visiting UNESCO heritage sites with local guides.
Comfortable logistics: Transport, entrance fees, and snorkeling gear included.
Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full refund options.
Limited hotel transport: Optional pickup and drop-off available at extra cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

If you’re looking to get a comprehensive glimpse of Zanzibar’s highlights in a single day, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s a great way to cover diverse interests—nature, history, and local culture—without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

From the moment your driver picks you up, you’re set for an adventure that balances guided insights with some free time to soak in each location. The day begins with a boat ride across the calm waters to Prison Island, where the star attractions are the giant tortoises and the clear waters ideal for snorkeling. You’ll love the chance to feed these gentle giants, some of which are over a century old, and enjoy a swim or relax on the island’s beach.

Following this, the tour moves into Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its labyrinth of alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets. Your local guide will paint a picture of the island’s complex past, pointing out sites like the former slave market, the House of Wonder, and Freddie Mercury’s childhood home. It’s a fascinating journey through history with plenty of opportunities for photos and shopping.

Finally, the Spice Farm visit allows you to see how Zanzibar’s famous spices and herbs are cultivated. You’ll learn about their uses, taste fresh tropical fruits, and marvel at the coconut climber, which is a highlight for many visitors. This part of the tour adds flavor—literally and figuratively—to your day.

Looking for more options in Zanzibar City? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Prison Island: A Unique Encounter with Nature and History

Your day kicks off with a short boat ride from the mainland, a scenic start that sets the tone for the day. Prison Island, also called Changuu Island, has an intriguing past as a former prison and quarantine station. Although its prison buildings are no longer in use, the island is famous for its giant tortoises, some exceeding 100 years old, and their slow, gentle demeanor.

Guests frequently mention the delightful experience of feeding these tortoises and taking photos with them. The island’s waters are perfect for snorkeling, offering a chance to see coral and small marine life in the crystal-clear water. Those who love relaxing will appreciate the quiet beaches and the laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind after the water activities.

Stone Town: A Walk Through History

Next, the tour guides you into the heart of Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a treasure trove of narrow streets, old stone buildings, and lively markets. The Palace Museum provides a glimpse into the sultans’ regal past, while sites like the Old Fort reveal the island’s strategic history.

Your local guide, often someone with intimate knowledge—sometimes with a friendly sense of humor—will help you appreciate the stories behind each site. Expect to walk through bustling markets, browse souvenirs, and perhaps pick up some spices or local crafts.

One review notes that “the guide’s storytelling made the history come alive,” while others mention the lively ambiance of the streets, perfect for soaking in local life and taking photos. The walk is generally manageable, but be prepared for some uneven surfaces and warm weather.

More Great Tours Nearby

Spice Farm: A Sensory Adventure

The final stop is the spice farm, where you’ll learn how Zanzibar’s spices are grown and harvested. Guides often demonstrate coconut climbing, which fascinates many visitors. You’ll taste a variety of tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples, and see how spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom are cultivated.

Guests frequently comment on the flavor explosion, saying it’s like a walk through a living spice market. Learning about the uses of different herbs adds practical value, especially if you enjoy cooking or want to bring some spices home. The farm visit typically lasts about an hour and leaves many visitors eager to incorporate what they’ve learned into their culinary adventures back home.

There's plenty more to explore in Zanzibar City

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day experience is designed to be both educational and fun, with a mix of guided activities and free time. The transportation is organized, with pick-up and drop-off from a central meeting point or your hotel (for an extra charge). The small group size typically ensures personalized attention, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

The tour includes all entrance fees, boat rides, and snorkeling equipment, making it straightforward to enjoy each part without extra hassle. Expect a fairly full schedule, but also moments to relax and enjoy the scenery. The timing generally means you’ll be back around late afternoon, leaving you time to relax or explore on your own afterward.

Additional Insights

One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Yusuf, was “informative and friendly,” making the day feel more like an adventure with a knowledgeable friend. Others appreciated the flexible timing at each site, allowing for photos or a quick snack break.

While the tour does not include hotel transfers by default, options are available for an extra fee—something to consider if you prefer door-to-door convenience. The booking process allows you to reserve without immediate payment, offering flexibility to adjust plans if needed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers wanting an effortless way to see Zanzibar’s top sights in one go. It offers a wonderful mix of nature lovers, who’ll enjoy feeding tortoises and snorkeling, and history buffs, eager to explore Stone Town’s heritage sites.

It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule, as it packs multiple experiences into a single day without feeling rushed. The inclusion of local guides enhances the authenticity, giving you deeper insights into the island’s culture and history.

While the schedule is comprehensive, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of walking and moving between sites. If you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day, this might be a bit full-on.

Overall, at $100, the tour offers solid value—covering transport, entrance fees, and guided commentary—making it an accessible way to experience the best Zanzibar has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $100 fee covers a local guide, entrance fees to all sites, boat rides, snorkeling equipment, and transport from the meeting point.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included but can be arranged for an extra charge. You can contact the tour provider to organize this service.

How long is the boat ride to Prison Island?
The tour mentions a “short boat riding” segment, which is typically a brief, scenic boat trip from the mainland to Prison Island.

What activities are available at Prison Island?
Guests can swim, snorkel, feed the giant tortoises, and relax on the beach. Snorkeling gear is provided.

What are some of the main sights in Stone Town?
Expect to see the Palace Museum, Old Fort, House of Wonder, and Freddie Mercury’s House. These sites showcase Zanzibar’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities like feeding tortoises and exploring the spice farm are family-friendly, but some walking may be required, so keep kids’ stamina in mind.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, which provides flexibility. Cancelations are free if done 24 hours in advance, making it easy to plan ahead.

This tour promises a lively, authentic taste of Zanzibar’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant local life—all in one well-organized day. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply eager to see the highlights, it offers a practical and engaging way to experience the island’s essence.