If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar in Tanzania, you’ve probably heard of “Prison Island.” Sometimes referred to as “Changuu Island” or “Turtle Island,” it is also called the Tortoise Sanctuary.
The name Prison Island in Zanzibar comes from its history as a former prison, although it was never used for that purpose.
Changuu Island gets its name from the abundance of fish in the surrounding waters – Changuu is the Swahili word for fish.
Although called Turtle Island by tourists, there are no turtles on this particular island; only tortoises can be found here.
The main attraction of this island is undoubtedly the Tortoise Sanctuary, where giant Aldabra tortoises roam freely.
With so many different names floating around, it’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry! We’re here to guide you and give you all the information you need to visit Prison Island in Zanzibar.
Related read: Most Popular Day Trips from Zanzibar
Here is an overview:
- Where is Prison Island in Zanzibar?
- What to see on Prison Island
- When is the best time to visit Prison Island?
- How to get to Prison Island?
- Private tour to Prison Island in Zanzibar
- Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank and Stone Town Private Tour
- Stone Town, Spice Farm and Prison Island Private Tour
- Boat and safety on water
- How much does it cost, where to pay and what are the opening hours?
- Staying overnight on Changuu Island
- Transfer in Zanzibar
Where is Prison Island in Zanzibar?
Located northwest of Stone Town, this island is only 5.6 km or 3.5 miles from Stone Town, making it conveniently close to the city and perfect for a quick visit.
A boat ride to reach it takes about 25 minutes, but be aware that the water can get rough at times, which can slightly extend the duration of your trip.
Although the island is not very large, only 800m long and 220m wide, it has a wealth of attractions and experiences to offer.
What to see on Prison Island
There are a lot of tortoises on Prison Island, and they are definitely the main attraction.
Some people may mistakenly call them turtles, but technically they are tortoises. There are about 100 of them; you can walk among them and even feed them. They have lettuce for breakfast right on the ground!
Feed them only with the leaves the keepers hand out, and take your pictures without touching them.
However, it’s important to remember that as guests in their habitat, we should respect their space. Never pick them up or sit on them, and don’t try to force them to do anything. They are a vulnerable species, and some of them are close to 200 years old.
These Aldabra tortoises are one of the largest tortoise species in the world; some can weigh up to 200kg! What makes them truly remarkable is that they are believed to be among the longest-living creatures in the world. The oldest tortoise on Changuu Island is estimated to be an impressive 196 years old. You’ll notice that some of these beautiful creatures have numbers on their shells indicating their age.
Originally from the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, four of these tortoises were sent as a gift by the British governor of the Seychelles in 1919. Their population grew to around 200 individuals.
Unfortunately, their numbers began to decline rapidly in the 1960s due to poaching. These tortoises were either stolen for consumption or kept as exotic pets. By 1988, there were only about a hundred left alive, and unfortunately, that number dropped drastically to just seven by 1996.
Faced with such an alarming decline, and with the Aldabra tortoise being listed as ‘vulnerable,’ urgent action was required by the authorities, and eighty hatchlings were relocated to Prison Island to provide shelter for this endangered species. This shift in the island’s purpose, from a place of exile to a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures, was largely due to its geographical isolation, which provided them with a safe haven.
In addition to tortoises, Prison Island is also home to some peacocks, birds, and small, elusive duikers – tiny antelopes that are difficult to spot.
The second most interesting attraction on the island is undoubtedly the prison ruins. There are benches and a bar where you can enjoy a beer or coffee during your visit. Keep in mind that it might be a bit pricey, but having such an amazing view with your drink might make up for it! The restaurant there is called the “Prison Restaurant.”
Interestingly enough, you can go snorkeling near Prison Island after your visit. It has become quite popular with visitors looking for more water activities. Just ask the captain of your boat trip to take you there, as it would be impossible to reach this spot from shore, and the water is incredibly clear, offering great visibility of the marine life within the reef.
Related read: Where to go Snorkeling in Zanzibar
When is the best time to visit Prison Island?
The ideal time to visit is in the morning for several reasons.
First, tortoises are eager and ready to eat at this time. They will actively eat food from your hand or forage for themselves.
Second, because it’s early in the day and not too hot, they tend to be more active and move around a bit more (though don’t expect them to run everywhere). It’s all within tortoise limits.
To make the most of your experience without feeling uncomfortable due to the heat, leaving Stone Town at 9am is perfect timing. The temperature won’t be scorching, and you’ll get to see the tortoises at their best – a win-win situation.
However, remember that because the mornings are popular with visitors like you, there may be some congestion as boats dock and undock. There may be a short wait to get on or off the boat, but nothing too long.
How to get to Prison Island?
Unfortunately, there are no public ferries to take you to Prison Island.
However, if you happen to be strolling along one of the two beaches in Stone Town, chances are that you will be approached by individuals offering private boat charters. Most of these boats are motorized dhows, which are about 7 meters (22 feet) long and known for their sleek hull design. The cost of this boat trip can be negotiated and usually decreases per person when more people join the trip. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s possible to join a group and save some money.
However, caution is advised as arranging your own trip may result in being cheated or ending up on an unsafe vessel.
Unauthorized guides can also be subject to significant fines, which can complicate your vacation. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it is advisable to book an organized tour instead.
Tour to Prison Island in Zanzibar
Of all the islands around Zanzibar, Prison Island is the easiest to combine with a day in Stone Town. The boat ride takes about 25 minutes.
Once you arrive, giant tortoises and peacocks wander around the ruins in the courtyard.
Check prices and availability
Duration: 1 hour
Hotel pickup: not included
Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank and Stone Town Private Tour
This private full day tour combines three classics near Stone Town. It starts with a 30 minute boat ride to Prison Island, its giant tortoises and its old buildings.
Next comes snorkeling and a Swahili buffet lunch at the Nakupenda sandbank. The day ends in Stone Town, past the Darajani Market, the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum.
Check prices and availability
Duration: 8 hours
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
The package includes:
- Hotel pickup and private transportation
- Lunch
- Snorkeling equipment
- All fees and taxes
Stone Town, Spice Farm and Prison Island Private Tour
If you have one day for the area around Stone Town, this private tour covers three highlights: Stone Town, Prison Island and a spice farm.
The day starts in Stone Town with the Darajani Market and the Forodhani waterfront. A motorized boat then takes you to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises.
In the afternoon you drive inland to the spice farms around Kizimbani and Kidichi, where the guide shows you how the island’s spices grow.
Check prices and availability
Duration: 8 hours
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup in an air-conditioned private vehicle
- Bottled water
- All fees and taxes
Lunch is not included.
Boat and safety on water
Most of the boats available are long motorized boats with a sun shade. They may not be the most comfortable, but they are good enough for the short trip to Turtle Island.
Getting on and off the boat is easy, as most have a small ladder, and if you’re lucky, you won’t even get wet. However, people with physical disabilities may find it a bit challenging and require more time.
As mentioned above, the water can get choppy at times, causing some bouncing. Boats should carry a life jacket for every passenger, so ask for one before you set off.
In general, the trip doesn’t take long and is relatively safe. These captains sail this route several times a day and are very familiar with it.
A helpful suggestion would be to take some pictures of yourself aboard the boat as you approach Stone Town or Prison Island.
How much does it cost, where to pay and what are the opening hours?
The cost for foreign visitors is 15 USD or 30000 TSH and the extra fee for Minai Conservation is 3 USD or 6000 TSH. These are the last published rates, so check current fees before you go.
There are two payment booths that are easy to spot. First you have to pay at the reception desk and then you get your tickets to hand over to the ticket collector, which is about 10 meters away. It’s essential to have these tickets as they allow access to the turtle sanctuary.
Children up to the age of eight are admitted free of charge, while those over eight pay the same price as adults.
Credit cards are not accepted at this time, but there are rumors that they will be in the near future.
Hours of operation start at 9:00 am and end at 5:30 pm.
Staying overnight on Changuu Island
For those who want to maximize their experience here, spending a night in one of the hotels on Changuu Island could be an interesting option.
You’ll get to wake up without any tourists around and enjoy all this unique location has to offer.
The Changuu Island Lodge offers amenities like pools and different types of rooms to suit different preferences. The lodge offers 27 room options divided into two categories.
There are 15 luxurious deluxe cottages discreetly situated along the ocean line on the northwest side of the island. These cottages offer the utmost in privacy and seclusion while being built with local materials and traditional thatched roofs to create a comfortable temperature throughout the day and night.
Inside these spacious accommodations, you will find elegant decor and en-suite bathrooms for your comfort.
In addition, each cottage has a private outdoor veranda facing the sea, allowing you to enjoy the ocean’s breathtaking views and soothing sounds fully.
On a different note, there are also 12 charming standard rooms located in Stone Town’s former quarantine area built back in 1931. Located on the southwest side of the island, these rooms offer magnificent views of Stone Town itself. As with the other accommodation at the lodge, each room has its own en-suite bathroom.
Transfer in Zanzibar
Instead of haggling for a taxi when you land, you can book your transfer in advance.
Book a private transfer from Zanzibar Airport to your beach hotel. The price is per car, and transfers run 24 hours a day.
