Changuu Island, better known as Prison Island, lies about 6 km off Stone Town. A boat ride of around 30 minutes brings you to a small island with a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, old buildings and clear water for snorkelling. It makes an easy half-day trip.
The giant tortoises
The tortoises came from the Seychelles. In 1919 the British governor of the Seychelles sent four Aldabra giant tortoises to Zanzibar as a gift. Their descendants now live in a protected sanctuary on the island. Some are well over 100 years old and can weigh more than 200 kg. Visitors can feed them leaves under supervision.
Why it is called Prison Island
In the 1860s an Arab trader is said to have used the island to hold enslaved people. In 1893 the British built a prison here for troublesome inmates from the mainland, but it was never used as a prison. Instead it became a quarantine station for yellow fever and other diseases. Some of the buildings survive.
What to do
- Visit the tortoise sanctuary.
- Walk round the old prison and quarantine buildings.
- Snorkel on the reef near the island.
- Relax on the small beach.
- Look for peacocks and antelope-like suni, which also live on the island.
Planning your visit
- Time needed: three to four hours including the boat ride.
- Boats: leave from the Stone Town beach near Forodhani Gardens. Use a licensed operator with life jackets.
- Fees: an entrance fee is charged for the tortoise sanctuary.
- Bring: swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and water.
Combine the trip with Stone Town and a spice tour. See our Stone Town and beach trip.
Frequently asked questions
A prison was built there in 1893, but it was never used for prisoners. It became a quarantine station instead.
Aldabra in the Seychelles. Four were sent to Zanzibar as a gift in 1919.
About three to four hours from Stone Town, including a boat ride of around 30 minutes each way.
