About this Prison Island trip
Changuu Island sits a short boat ride off Stone Town. A prison was built here in the 1890s but never held prisoners, and the island was later used as a quarantine station. That is how it got both of its English names.
Today most people come for the Aldabra giant tortoises. The colony began with four tortoises sent from the Seychelles in 1919, and some of the animals you will see are well over a century old.
Highlights
- Aldabra giant tortoises in the island's sanctuary
- The old prison and quarantine buildings
- Snorkelling or swimming off the island's beach
- Views back to the Stone Town skyline
Prison Island trip itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- StartMeet at your Stone Town hotel or the beach near Forodhani, then walk to the boat.
- 20–30 minBoat ride across to Changuu Island.
- 45 minGuided visit to the tortoise sanctuary.
- 30 minWalk past the historic prison and quarantine buildings.
- 45 minSnorkel or swim off the island, sea conditions permitting.
- EndBoat back to Stone Town and walk or drive to your hotel.
Your private options
Private boat
Your own boat and guide, with snorkelling off the island.
Prison Island and Nakupenda
Add the sandbank for a longer private trip.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Stone Town | Included |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Stone Town | $90 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Stone Town | $110 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Stone Town | $130 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Stone Town | $120 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Stone Town | $130 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Boat with crew
- English-speaking guide
- Snorkel mask and fins (Standard and Private)
- Island entry fee (Standard and Private)
- Bottled water
- Pickup from hotels in the Stone Town & airport area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Lunch and drinks
- Tips
Add-ons
- Add Nakupenda sandbank
- Seafood lunch on the sandbank
- Hotel transfer by zone
Children and groups
Children enjoy the tortoises. Life jackets are provided on the boat. Child rates on request. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Prison Island trip FAQs
Is the boat ride rough?
The channel can be choppy, especially when the wind picks up later in the day. If conditions are unsafe, the crew will delay or reschedule.
Can I touch the tortoises?
Follow the keeper's instructions. Never sit on, lift or block a tortoise.
How much are the island fees?
Operators report about USD 22 per person since 1 September 2025: USD 12 Prison Island entry and USD 10 marine conservation fee, plus tax. Our private trips include it. We confirm the amount when you book.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda Day.