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Prison Island (Changuu) sits just off Stone Town and is home to a colony of giant Aldabra tortoises, some more than 100 years old, brought to the island in the 19th century. This half-day tour combines time with the tortoises with a swim and snorkel over the calm reef just offshore, all reachable on a short boat crossing. It's an easy, low-effort excursion that works well alone or paired with a Stone Town or Spice Farm tour on the same day.
Activity level — Low A short boat crossing, a gentle walk to see the tortoises, and optional swimming or snorkeling. Suitable for most fitness levels.
THE ROUTE, AT YOUR PACE
How your day unfolds
- Short boat crossing to Prison Island
- Time with giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old
- Snorkeling over the calm offshore reef
- Snorkeling gear provided
- Island's old quarantine-station history
- Hotel pickup & drop-off included
A short crossing gets you to the island, where the pace stays relaxed for the rest of the morning.
After your hotel pickup, you're driven to the jetty in Stone Town for a short boat crossing to Prison Island, named for the never-used prison building constructed here in the 1890s. The island's main draw today is its colony of giant Aldabra tortoises, some more than a century old, which you can walk among and feed under the guidance of the island's keepers.
Once you've spent time with the tortoises, there's free time to swim or snorkel over the calm reef just off the island's beach — snorkeling gear is provided, and the water here is generally clear and gentle, making it a good option even for less confident swimmers. When you're ready, the boat brings you back to Stone Town, where your driver is waiting for the return to your hotel.
Indicative schedule from the operator; timings are confirmed for your booking.
- 9:30am
Hotel pickup Your driver takes you to the jetty in Stone Town.
- 10:00am
Boat crossing A short, scenic boat ride out to Prison Island.
- 10:20am
Giant tortoises Walk among the island's Aldabra tortoise colony with a local guide.
- 11:00am
Swim & snorkel Free time in the water over the island's calm reef; gear provided.
- 12:00pm
Return crossing Boat back to Stone Town, then drop-off at your hotel.
The details matter.
Included
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Return boat transfer to Prison Island
- Prison Island entry fees
- Local guide at the tortoise sanctuary
- Snorkeling gear
Not included
- Meals & drinks
- Hotel accommodation
- Flights to and from Zanzibar
- Travel & medical insurance (required)
- Souvenirs & personal expenses
- Tips for your guide & driver
Your written proposal confirms the final arrangements and current price for your dates. Please discuss any specific requirements with our team.
Prices & options.
Ask our team for the current price for your dates and group.
Before you go
- Bring swimwear, a towel and reef-safe sunscreen — snorkeling gear is provided but wetsuits are not.
- The boat crossing is short (10–15 minutes) but can be a little choppy in windier months — those prone to seasickness may want to take precautions.
- This tour pairs well with a Stone Town Tour or Spice Farm Tour on the same day — ask about combining them.
- A Tanzania e-Visa is required for most nationalities — apply at immigration.go.tz at least 3 weeks before travel.
A few good questions.
How old are the tortoises?
Some of the giant Aldabra tortoises on the island are recorded as being over 100 years old. They were introduced to the island in the late 19th century.
Is the boat crossing rough?
It's usually a short, calm ride, though conditions can vary with wind and season. The crossing takes around 10–15 minutes each way.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and fins are provided. You're welcome to bring your own if you prefer a specific fit.
Can I combine this with Stone Town or the Spice Farm?
Yes, many guests combine Prison Island with a Stone Town Tour or Spice Farm Tour on the same day — just ask when booking.
Make this journey yours.
Your personal proposal confirms the final itinerary, accommodation, inclusions and price for your dates.
Enquire about this journey