Prison Island and Giant Tortoises Half Day Local Boat Trip
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the enchanting Prison Island (Changuu Island) on this authentic half-day tour from Stone Town. Travel by traditional wooden boat and discover the giant Aldabra tortoises in their sanctuary, some over a century old. Walk through historic prison ruins and soak in the rich history of Zanzibar. After the guided exploration, enjoy leisure time swimming in crystal-clear waters or relaxing on the beach. Ideal for those seeking a genuine local experience without luxury frills.
- Half-day tour from Stone Town to Prison Island
- Encounter Aldabra tortoises and explore historic ruins
- Free time for swimming, beach relaxation, and photography
- Tour duration: approx. 3 hours with a max group size of 20 guests
Featured as part of the Boat Trips Club experience collection.
Available options
Prison Island & Giant Tortoises – Half-Day Local Boat Trip
What's included
Entrance to the tortoise sanctuary
Local English-speaking guide
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
2 bottles of water per guest
Soft drinks
Shared local wooden boat
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your journey begins in the heart of Stone Town, where you’ll meet your local Zanzibari captain near Livingstone House. As the wooden boat gently pushes away from the shore, the sounds of the city fade and the Indian Ocean opens up before you. The short boat ride offers beautiful views of Stone Town’s coastline and a glimpse into everyday island life on the water.
2
After 20–30 minutes, you arrive at Prison Island (Changuu Island). Step ashore and enter the famous giant Aldabra tortoise sanctuary, home to gentle giants, some over a century old. Walk among them, take photos, and learn their remarkable stories from your local guide.
Next, explore the historic prison and quarantine ruins, where Zanzibar’s past comes to life through fascinating local stories. After the guided visit, enjoy free time to swim in the clear waters, relax on the small beach, or simply soak in the island atmosphere.
Soft drinks and two bottles of water per guest keep you refreshed throughout. With no luxury distractions, this authentic half-day experience lets you connect deeply with Zanzibar’s nature, history, and local culture before sailing back to Stone Town.
What's not included
Snorkeling equipment
Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Food or snacks
Towels
Toilet on the boat
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The exact meeting point will be shared after booking. Guests are required to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure.
Important notes
Thank you for booking with Boat Trips Club! We’re excited to have you join us for an unforgettable experience in Zanzibar.
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Top Attractions
Stone Town
The heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Prison Island
A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and historical significance as a former slave prison.
Historical/Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and boat ride)
Nungwi Beach
One of Zanzibar's most famous beaches, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Full day
Free to access, activities vary
Jozani Forest
Zanzibar's only national park, home to the rare Red Colobus monkey and diverse birdlife.
Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and guide)
Kizimkazi
A historic village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.
Cultural
Half day
Moderate (dolphin tour fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Urojo
A spicy Zanzibari soup made with cassava, potatoes, and sometimes meat or seafood, served with coconut and chili sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian option available
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish or meat.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Zanzibar Pizza
A local street food item made with a thin, flaky pastry filled with eggs, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a griddle.
Snack
Customizable to dietary preferences
Biriyani
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables, influenced by Indian cuisine.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Island hopping
Spice tours
Dolphin tours
Beach relaxation
Sunset cruises
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Arabic, Indigenous languages
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Use common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from Stone Town
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Useful for reaching popular destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stone Town
Nungwi
Kendwa
Jambiani
Day trips
Pemba Island
100 km • Full day to overnight
Known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, Pemba Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Chumbe Island
12 km • Full day
A small island known for its coral reef sanctuary and lighthouse, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Mafia Island
150 km • Overnight
Known for its remote beaches, excellent fishing, and whale shark sightings, Mafia Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Festivals
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July
Mwaka Kogwa • July
Zanzibar Carnival • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Hire a local guide for spice tours and historical sites to gain deeper insights.
- Visit the Forodhani Gardens night market for a taste of local street food.
- Book a sunset cruise for a romantic and memorable experience.
- Explore the island's diverse regions, from the bustling Stone Town to the serene beaches of Kendwa and Jambiani.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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