TRA Licensed  |  Licence No. TRA1/22/C01/60582
Prison Island and Stone Town excursion in Zanzibar
PRISON ISLAND & STONE TOWN · ZANZIBAR

Prison Island & Stone Town

Visit Prison Island by private boat, see the giant tortoises and enjoy time for snorkelling before returning to Stone Town for a guided historical walking tour.

A private half-day island and heritage experience

Discover Prison Island & Stone Town, Zanzibar

Enjoy a private half-day excursion combining Prison Island and Stone Town. Begin with a private boat trip to Prison Island, a small island off Stone Town known for its historic prison complex and giant tortoise sanctuary. After exploring the island, return to Stone Town for a guided walking tour through its historic streets and landmarks.

Private Half-Day TripIsland visit and Stone Town walking tour
Available Year-RoundPrivate boat and walking tour
Island visit & historyExplore Prison Island and Stone Town
Island history and Indian Ocean scenery

About the Prison Island & Stone Town Tour

Take a private boat from Stone Town to Prison Island, approximately 6 kilometres offshore. The island was the site of a prison complex built in the late 19th century during British colonial rule, although the prison was never used. Today, it is known for its tortoise sanctuary. Enjoy time to see the giant tortoises, explore the island, snorkel or swim in the surrounding waters.

After exploring Prison Island and seeing its giant tortoises, return by boat to Stone Town. Explore its narrow alleys and winding streets with your guide. Visit the House of Wonders area, spice bazaars and palaces, see the area where Freddie Mercury was raised, and visit the 19th-century church built on the site of a former slave market.

Explore Stone Town on foot with your guide, learning about its history and architecture. The supplier itinerary describes the House of Wonders as the starting point of the walking tour and highlights the town’s coral-stone buildings and historic landmarks.

Highlights of your island excursion

What You Will Experience

Giant Tortoise SanctuarySee the famous giant tortoises on Prison Island.
Prison Island HistoryDiscover the island’s historic prison site and its colonial-era background.
Stone Town Walking TourExplore narrow streets, historic buildings and cultural landmarks with a local guide.
Island SnorkellingUse the included snorkelling equipment to explore the waters around Prison Island.
Historic LandmarksDiscover the House of Wonders area, spice bazaars and historic sites.
Freddie Mercury HeritageSee the area associated with Freddie Mercury’s childhood home.
Tour arrangements

Inclusions & Exclusions

Price Includes

  • Pick-up and drop-off by private transfer
  • Professional and friendly local tour guide
  • Government entrance fees for Prison Island and Stone Town
  • Private boat to Prison Island
  • Seasonal fresh fruits
  • Snorkelling equipment
  • Seasonal fresh fruits, soft drinks, mineral water and refreshments

Price Excludes

  • Tips and portage
  • Any additional tours
  • Other personal items
Plan your Prison Island & Stone Town visit

Enquire About This Tour

Send us your preferred date and accommodation details. Our team will check the arrangements and respond with a quotation. This is an enquiry, not an instant booking.

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