Overview
Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, is a small island located about 5.5 km northwest of Zanzibar City. It is famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises and historical significance as a former slave prison.
The island is significant for its role in the history of the slave trade and its unique ecosystem hosting giant tortoises.
Location
Address
Changuu Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Neighborhood: Stone Town
Coordinates
-6.150000, 39.266700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and sunny
- • Turtle breeding season
- • Beautiful gardens
summer
Warm with occasional rain
- • Sunset cruises
- • Snorkeling
autumn
Cooler and drier
- • Turtle feeding
- • Historical tours
winter
Hot and humid
- • Beach picnics
- • Tortoise feeding
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book a boat tour in advance
- Bring sunscreen and a hat
- Check the weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Sun exposure
- • Dehydration
Medical facilities: First aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable clothes and shoes, Walking shoes or sandals, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • Local tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • Available with private tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Changuu Island Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Tour information, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Beach restaurant
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique history and wildlife
Historical Significance: Former slave prison and quarantine station
Insider Tips
- Best snorkeling spots are on the northern side
- Local restaurants offer fresh seafood
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood at the beach restaurant
- • Ask for guide Hassan
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Swahili
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Tortoise breeding center
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Low angle for tortoises
Result: Great close-ups
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Stone Town
Distance: 5.5 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historical Site
Zanzibar Beach
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Beach
Old Fort of Zanzibar
Distance: 4 km
Walking: 50 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a boat tour"
- "Visit the tortoise breeding center"
- "Try snorkeling"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
174
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
$10