Zanzibar: Prison Island Tour with Aldabra Gient Tortoise

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar and looking for a combination of history, wildlife, and stunning seascapes, the Prison Island Tour with Aldabra giant tortoises might be just what you need. This highly-rated excursion offers more than just a boat ride; it combines fascinating stories from the past with close encounters with gentle giants and incredible views of the Indian Ocean.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to meet Aldabra giant tortoises, explore the island’s historical ruins, and enjoy a scenic passage across turquoise waters—all for a very reasonable price of around $53 per person. However, it’s worth noting that entrance fees are payable on the day, and the tour’s length and group size might influence your overall experience.

If you love discovering new places with a mix of history and nature, this tour is ideal. It does require some walking and patience with the weather—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable with organized group activities.

Key Points

• Historical insights: Learn about Prison Island’s past as a quarantine station and detention center.
• Wildlife encounter: Meet and interact with Aldabra giant tortoises, some over 100 years old.
• Beautiful scenery: Experience breathtaking views of Stone Town’s coastline during the boat ride.
• Convenient logistics: Includes hotel transfers (if booked accordingly) and a guided tour.
• Cost-effective: Quality experience at $53, with optional entrance fee payable on the day.
• Authentic experience: Small group tours with multilingual guides offer personalized insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zanzibar Prison Island Tour

The Journey Begins: A Scenic Boat Ride across the Indian Ocean

Your adventure kicks off with a speed boat ride from Stone Town, giving you a chance to soak up the sights of Zanzibar’s coast. The boat is usually comfortable, and the ride itself lasts just enough to build anticipation without dragging on. Expect to see picturesque views of the coastline, with clear waters and vibrant marine life potentially visible as you approach the island.

Travelers consistently mention how the scenic boat ride is a highlight—“we loved the way the turquoise waters shimmered,” one reviewer commented. It’s a gentle reminder of why Zanzibar’s waters are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. This part of the journey sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Exploring Prison Island: Myths, History, and Ruins

Despite its ominous name, Prison Island was never used as a typical prison. Instead, it served as a quarantine station during colonial times and was also used as a detention area for rebellious slaves in the 19th century. Your guide, often a knowledgeable local, will lead you through the ruins of old prison buildings and explain the island’s layered past.

Many visitors find that the stories shared by guides like “the history comes alive when you hear about the quarantine hospital and the old prison cells,” which adds depth to the visit. The site also features remnants of a quarantine hospital, offering a glimpse into the colonial-era health practices—a stark contrast to the lush greenery surrounding the ruins.

The Aldabra Giant Tortoise Sanctuary: Close Encounters with Gentle Giants

The highlight for many is the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, home to Aldabra tortoises originally gifted from Seychelles. These animals, some over 100 years old, are surprisingly gentle and curious. Visitors can feed the tortoises, take photos, and learn about efforts to conserve their population.

We loved the way guides described the tortoises as “gentle, slow-moving creatures with a lot of character,” and their age often surprises visitors. The sanctuary is not just a petting zoo—it’s an important conservation effort, giving insight into how these giant creatures are protected and cared for.

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Practical Details: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The entire tour usually lasts around 3-4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. Group sizes tend to be small, providing opportunities for personalized attention from guides who speak multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, Swahili, Spanish, and Portuguese.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking around ruins and the sanctuary, swimwear if you plan to take a dip, sunscreen, a camera to capture the scenic views, and some cash for the entrance fee ($15 or 40,000 TZS).

What’s not included: Food and drinks are not part of the package, so consider bringing snacks or eating before or after the tour. Littering is discouraged, so keep your trash with you until disposal.

The Cost and Its Value

At $53 per person, this tour offers great value—especially when you consider that it includes the boat ride, a guided tour, and access to the sanctuary. The entrance fee of $15 (or 40,000 TZS) is payable on the day, which is a fair price for park access and the chance to mingle with the tortoises.

Reviews indicate that the guides are friendly and informative, often sharing personal anecdotes that make the history more accessible. The tour also includes government taxes, simplifying the booking process.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour is generally smooth, a few notes might help you prepare:

• Timing: Early morning departures are recommended to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
• Weather: Since the entire experience is outdoors, check the weather forecast—rain can impact boat rides and visits.
• Group size: Smaller groups tend to have a more intimate experience; larger groups might mean less time at each stop.
• Age suitability: The tour is suitable for most ages, but younger children should be supervised around the tortoises and ruins.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

Many reviewers appreciated the small-group setting, which felt more personal. One mentioned, “Our guide, Samuel, was incredibly knowledgeable, and it really made the history come alive.” Others loved the stunning ocean views from the boat—”You can’t beat the scenery,” said a visitor, “the water was so clear I could see fish swimming underneath.”

Several travelers noted that entrance fees are payable separately, so budget accordingly. The tortoises tend to be the biggest draw, and many visitors found that interacting with these ancient creatures was the highlight of their trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and photographers who want a well-rounded glimpse of Zanzibar’s rich past and vibrant nature. It’s also ideal for families, thanks to the gentle tortoises and manageable tour length. However, those seeking a luxury experience with fewer crowds might prefer private options or different activities.

If your priority is capturing stunning seascapes and discovering an intriguing slice of history, this tour offers a satisfying experience without breaking the bank.

The Sum Up

The Zanzibar Prison Island Tour with Aldabra giant tortoises blends history, wildlife, and scenery into a well-priced, accessible package. It’s a chance to walk through the remnants of a colonial past, interact with gentle giants, and enjoy breathtaking views across the Indian Ocean—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

For travelers who love authentic, outdoor experiences that combine education and entertainment, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to understand a different side of Zanzibar beyond the beaches.

While it’s not a full-day expedition and entrance fees are separate, the overall value and unique encounters make this outing worthwhile. It’s a memorable way to add a touch of history and nature to your Zanzibar journey.

FAQ

Is the boat ride included in the price?
Yes, the speed boat ride is part of the tour package, which is included in the $53.

Do I need to pay the entrance fee separately?
Yes, the $15 entrance fee for Prison Island is payable on the day of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
Typically, the tour lasts about 3-4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Are hotel transfers included?
Transfers are included if you select the proper option during booking; otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear if you wish to swim, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for the entrance fee.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for most ages, especially children who enjoy animals and outdoor exploration.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: