Zanzibar : Prison Island Tour

A half-day tour to the home of the giant land tortoises that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th Century with a prison also on the island which is no longer in use.

Come and experience a unique place called Prison Island by enjoying the ride to the island on a traditional dhow and learning more about Zanzibar’s history. Prison Island gets its name from the prison built to condemn Zanzibar citizens to be isolated from the island. The prison was previously owned by an Arab to house his rebellious slaves, the prison was never actually used, and the island is now home to a tortoise sanctuary and a hotel. Prison Island is 20 minutes away from Stone Town by boat and has spectacular coral reefs for you to enjoy. Giant tortoises shuffle through the trees, with the infinite patience that old age brings. Originally thought to be from the Comoros Islands and Seychelles, some of these tortoises are thought to be over 100 years old. After this memorable day, our driver will drop you off back at your hotel.