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Asilia Zanzibar

Tours, boat trips, safaris, and private transfers in Zanzibar. Contact Adil Omar on WhatsApp to plan your trip.

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Asilia Zanzibar is independently owned and operated. We are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Asilia Africa.Zanzibar, Tanzania
Island

Prison Island Tour

Boat trip to Changuu Island to meet giant Aldabra tortoises and explore the historic prison, with entry fees, boat, and guide included.

Half dayChanguu Island

Visit the giant Aldabra tortoises and the old prison buildings on Changuu Island, about 30 minutes by boat from Stone Town. Your guide explains the island’s history, with time for a swim during the visit.

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Prison Island Tour
Highlights
  • Meet giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old
  • Explore the historic prison and quarantine station
  • Swim and snorkel in the clear water off the jetty
What is included
  • Boat transfer from Stone Town
  • Entry fees
  • Professional guide
Key Information
  • Price: 2 people: $130 (all inclusive)
  • Pay in cash on the day. No deposit required.
  • Price covers 2 people; ask us for family and group rates
  • Departs from Stone Town harbour; the boat ride takes around 30 minutes
  • Free rescheduling for weather disruptions with 24 hours' notice
  • Contact us on WhatsApp to book

If plans need to change

Plan B

This is manually maintained planning guidance for this experience. It does not reflect live conditions or guarantee an outcome.

What can affect this experience
Wind, rain, and sea conditions can affect the boat crossing to and from the island.
What Asilia will do
If conditions are not suitable for the crossing, Asilia will discuss the safest practical next step with you.
Your options
Depending on availability and conditions, the trip may be moved to another time, adjusted, or exchanged for a suitable alternative. These options are not guaranteed.
When we will contact you
We will contact you when a change is needed, using the details provided for your booking. Timing may depend on when conditions are assessed.
The Experience

Everything you need to know about Changuu Island.

About Prison Island

Changuu Island, also called Prison Island, lies northwest of Stone Town. Its prison was built in the 1890s but never held prisoners; the island later served as a quarantine station.

The giant tortoises

The Aldabra giant tortoises are descended from a gift sent from the Seychelles in 1919. Several are believed to be over 100 years old. Visit the sanctuary to see them and take photos.

Make a day of it

You can combine Prison Island with Nakupenda Sandbank for a swim and seafood lunch. Ask us about a boat trip to both places.

Gallery

A glimpse of Changuu Island.

Prison Island seen from the sea with its long wooden jetty and sandy shore
The old prison building on Changuu Island with blue shutters and a red roof
Giant Aldabra tortoise walking through the sanctuary on Prison Island
Pairs Well With

Combine it with another experience.

Many guests pair this trip with one of these on the same day or the next.

Nakupenda Sandbank Trip
Marine
Half dayFrom $80

Nakupenda Sandbank Trip

A half-day trip to Nakupenda Sandbank, with a boat from Stone Town, entry fee, and seafood lunch included.

Stone Town Tour
Culture
On requestFrom $270

Stone Town Tour

A guided walk through Stone Town, with entrance fees and hotel transfer included.

Check availability for this tour

Send us your preferred date and group size.

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