Prison Island (Changuu)
Home to ancient giant tortoises and historical ruins, this island offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and a glimpse into Zanzibar's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Prison Island (Changuu)
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to ancient giant tortoises and historical ruins, this island offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and a glimpse into Zanzibar's past.
"The giant Aldabra tortoises are incredible to see up close, and the peaceful, shaded setting made it even more special."
🐢 Feed the Tortoises
You can buy food to feed the giant tortoises! They are gentle and fascinating to interact with.
💰 Combo Excursions
Consider a combo trip with Nakupenda Island for a full day of fun and value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Aldabra Tortoises
Tortoise Sanctuary
Meet ancient, gentle giants! Some are over 100 years old, offering a unique and humbling wildlife encounter.
Historic Prison Ruins
Island Interior
Explore the remnants of the island's past, once a quarantine station, offering a glimpse into its history.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Island Coastline
Discover vibrant underwater worlds with opportunities for snorkeling and spotting starfish in the clear waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tortoise Encounters & Island History
Boat Trips & Excursions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Feed the Tortoises
You can buy food to feed the giant tortoises! They are gentle and fascinating to interact with.
💰 Combo Excursions
Consider a combo trip with Nakupenda Island for a full day of fun and value.
🚶♂️ Respect the Rules
Please don't touch the tortoises, even though there's little enforcement. Respect their space.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The island offers beautiful scenery and unique animal encounters for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Feed the Tortoises
You can buy food to feed the giant tortoises! They are gentle and fascinating to interact with.
💰 Combo Excursions
Consider a combo trip with Nakupenda Island for a full day of fun and value.
🚶♂️ Respect the Rules
Please don't touch the tortoises, even though there's little enforcement. Respect their space.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The island offers beautiful scenery and unique animal encounters for stunning photos.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
It can get hot and sunny, so stay hydrated and protected.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Prison Island offers a delightful half-day escape from Stone Town, praised for its impressive giant tortoises and historical intrigue. Visitors enjoy the unique opportunity to interact with ancient reptiles and explore the island's past as a quarantine station. While some find it touristy, the natural beauty and the chance to feed the tortoises are widely considered highlights.
"Prison Island is a great half-day trip from Stone Town, offering a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. The highlight is visiting the giant tortoises where some of them are over 100 years old which are calm, friendly, and fun to feed. The old prison ruins give a glimpse into the island’s past, and the surrounding waters are perfect for snorkeling or just enjoying the view."
Emad AL-Manthari
"The view is beautiful, you can see in the water starfish. There is a sanctuary for very big land turtles. There are a museum (free of charge), restaurant, pizza, suvenire shop."
H. D.
"We have spend our morning at Prison Island, and it was both fascinating and impressive! We booked a combo excursion with Nakupenda Island for $20 per person, and it was totally worth it.
Originally, the British built a prison on the island in the late 1890s, but it was never actually used as such. Later, the island served mainly as a quarantine station for people with yellow fever and other diseases.
Today, the main attraction is the giant Aldabra tortoises, which were introduced in the early 20th century. Some of them are over 100 years old (if I remember correctly) — it was amazing to see! They’re huge and numerous, and walking among them is a really unique experience.
The entrance fee is around €11, which is more than reasonable. There are signs asking visitors not to touch the tortoises, out of respect — which we respected of course, though unfortunately not everyone did… and there is no security around the turtle park to fine the person when touching (despite all the signs).
Beyond the tortoises, the island itself is beautiful. Even without the animals, the peaceful setting, lush vegetation, and views of Stone Town make the visit worth it."
Nafissa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Prison Island by taking a private boat from the shores of Stone Town. Many tour operators offer trips, and you can also negotiate prices directly with boatmen. The journey is short, typically around 20-30 minutes.
Yes, numerous organized tours are available, often combining a visit to Prison Island with other attractions like Nakupenda Island. These can be booked in Stone Town or online.
The boat ride is generally pleasant and offers scenic views of the coastline and the turquoise waters surrounding Zanzibar. It's a quick trip, making it accessible for most visitors.
Absolutely! Hiring a private boat gives you flexibility in terms of timing and allows you to potentially combine it with other nearby islands. Negotiate the price beforehand.
Yes, Prison Island is a perfect destination for a half-day trip from Stone Town. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the island and return by lunchtime.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Prison Island is approximately €11 per person. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the island and the care of the giant tortoises.
It's generally not necessary to book tickets in advance, especially if you are arranging your boat trip directly. For organized tours, booking a day or two ahead is advisable.
Besides the entrance fee, you might incur costs for food at the restaurant, souvenirs, or if you choose to buy food to feed the tortoises.
Prison Island is typically open during daylight hours, from morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during the day to enjoy the natural light and activities.
Yes, the museum on Prison Island is free of charge. It provides historical context about the island's past.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The undisputed main attraction is the sanctuary of giant Aldabra tortoises. These ancient creatures are a highlight for most visitors, offering a unique wildlife encounter. 
You can observe and walk among the giant tortoises. While touching is discouraged, you can purchase food to feed them under supervision, which is a memorable experience.
Originally intended as a prison, it later served as a quarantine station for those with yellow fever. The ruins offer a glimpse into this past.
Yes, the waters around Prison Island are clear and offer good opportunities for snorkeling. You can often spot starfish and other marine life.
Indeed, Prison Island is also home to beautiful peacocks, adding to the island's natural charm and visual appeal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on Prison Island where you can enjoy meals and refreshments. They offer options like pizza and other dishes.
The restaurant typically serves a variety of dishes, including pizza, and is a convenient place to grab lunch or a snack during your visit.
While there are dining facilities, bringing some water and snacks is always a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a longer time on the island.
Information on specific dietary options like vegetarian meals is not widely detailed, but it's worth inquiring at the restaurant upon arrival.
Prices are generally considered reasonable for an island attraction, but it's always a good idea to check menus or ask about prices before ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
The giant tortoises, the historic ruins, the lush vegetation, and the clear turquoise waters all offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget the peacocks!
The tortoises are quite accustomed to people, making them relatively easy to photograph. Getting close (respectfully) will yield the best shots.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially of the wildlife.
Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, which is ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but still offers opportunities, especially for capturing the vibrant colors of the island.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone, as they may not be permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a combo tour that includes other family-friendly activities. Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as it can get warm. The historical ruins also offer a chance for kids to imagine life in the past, adding an educational element to the fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for combo tours that offer good value, especially if they include multiple destinations. Prioritize the tortoise encounter and historical exploration, which are the core experiences, rather than expensive add-ons.
🐢 Animal Lovers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the tortoises, the island's natural beauty, including its clear waters perfect for snorkeling and the presence of peacocks, adds to its appeal. It's a chance to connect with nature in a serene environment, away from the hustle of the mainland.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Giant Tortoises of Prison Island
It's important to remember that these tortoises are a protected species. The island's sanctuary plays a crucial role in their conservation. While the tortoises are the main draw, the island's natural beauty, with its lush vegetation and clear waters, provides a serene backdrop for this incredible wildlife encounter. The experience is often described as peaceful and humbling, making it a memorable part of any Zanzibar trip.
A Glimpse into Prison Island's History
Interestingly, some accounts suggest the island was also used by Omani traders to hide slaves after the slave trade was outlawed. This adds another layer to its complex history. Exploring these historical structures provides context and a deeper understanding of the island's evolution from a place of isolation to a sanctuary for wildlife.
Today, the historical ruins stand in contrast to the vibrant life of the tortoises and the surrounding natural beauty. They serve as a reminder of the island's past while visitors enjoy its present as a conservation area and tourist destination. The free museum on-site offers further insights into its historical journey.
Planning Your Visit: Boats, Tours, and Tips
When arranging your trip, whether it's a private boat or an organized tour, it's wise to clarify what's included. Some tours might offer snorkeling gear or lunch. Be prepared for the entrance fee, which is modest and supports the island's conservation efforts.
For a more enjoyable visit, remember to bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be intense. While some perceive Prison Island as a tourist trap, many find the interaction with the giant tortoises and the historical exploration to be well worth the visit. Respecting the island's rules, especially regarding the tortoises, ensures a positive experience for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit