Prison Island, known locally as Changuu, is a small coral island a short boat ride from Stone Town. It is one of the easiest half-day trips in Zanzibar and a good choice for families. This guide explains what you will see, how long the trip takes and what to bring.
A short history
The island was developed in the 1890s with a prison in mind, which is where its name comes from. In practice the building was never used to hold prisoners, and the island later served as a quarantine station. Today the ruins are one of the things visitors walk through, alongside the wildlife.
The giant tortoises
The main attraction is the colony of giant Aldabra tortoises, a species brought to Zanzibar from the Indian Ocean. Some of the oldest animals are said to be more than a hundred years old. You can walk among them, watch them eat and, on many visits, feed them leaves. Take care around the tortoises, do not sit on them and follow your guide’s advice.
Snorkeling and swimming
The island is surrounded by a coral reef, with reef fish close to shore. Our trip includes time to snorkel. Conditions depend on the tide and the weather, and the water is usually clearest on calm days.
How long does the trip take?
Our Prison Island boat trip is listed as about three hours. That covers the boat crossing, a guided walk around the island and time at the reef.
What to bring
- Swimwear and a towel
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
- Drinking water
- Comfortable shoes for walking on the island’s paths
- A camera or phone in a waterproof bag
The best time to go
The trip runs all year, but the crossing is smoother and the reef clearer in the drier months. Mornings are cooler and often calmer. If you are choosing dates, read our guide to the best time to visit Zanzibar.
Combine it with other trips
Many visitors pair Prison Island with a walk through Stone Town on land, or with the Nakupenda sandbank picnic by boat. Read our Stone Town guide, or see more ideas in things to do in Zanzibar.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it is a gentle outing with a short boat crossing and easy walking. On our tour, children under 6 travel free and children from 6 years pay half the adult price. Keep an eye on young children around the tortoises and near the water.
Looking after the tortoises
The tortoises are calm, but they are large animals and they can bite. Keep your fingers away from their mouths and never sit on their shells or pick them up. Following your guide’s advice keeps both you and the animals safe.
Questions visitors often ask
- Do I have to swim? No. You can enjoy the island and the tortoises without getting in the water, although snorkeling is easier if you are comfortable swimming.
- Can I see the tortoises all year? Yes, they live on the island all year.
- Is it a long day? No. It is a half-day trip of about three hours.
Ask for a price
Open the Prison Island boat trip page to see the starting price and choose your group size, or send us a message or write on WhatsApp.
