Prison Island & Giant Tortoises, Zanzibar
What to see at Prison Island & Giant Tortoises and how to fit it into a Zanzibar trip.
Quick answer
A 25-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Changuu Island (Prison Island) holds a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises — some over 100 years old — originally gifted from Seychelles in 1919.
Best season for Zanzibar: June – October. Recommended trip length: 7–10 Days.
About Prison Island & Giant Tortoises
A 25-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Changuu Island (Prison Island) holds a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises — some over 100 years old — originally gifted from Seychelles in 1919. Walking among them is surprisingly moving. The island also has a beach, snorkelling and the ruins of a 19th-century quarantine station.
Prison Island & Giant Tortoises is one of 12 places we cover in Zanzibar, and falls on day 3 of our 5-day Zanzibar plan.
More places to visit in Zanzibar
- Forodhani Gardens Night Market
- Paje Beach & Kite Surfing
- Stone Town — UNESCO Old Quarter
- Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches
- Spice Farm Tour
- Mnemba Atoll Diving & Snorkelling
- Jozani Forest & Red Colobus Monkeys
- Kizimkazi Dolphin Swimming
Questions about Prison Island & Giant Tortoises
What is Prison Island & Giant Tortoises?
A 25-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Changuu Island (Prison Island) holds a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises — some over 100 years old — originally gifted from Seychelles in 1919. Walking among them is surprisingly moving. The island also has a beach, snorkelling and the ruins of a 19th-century quarantine station.
When is the best time to visit Prison Island & Giant Tortoises?
Zanzibar's best season is June – October, which is the best window for Prison Island & Giant Tortoises too.
How many days do I need in Zanzibar to include Prison Island & Giant Tortoises?
Trripah recommends 7–10 Days for Zanzibar. Prison Island & Giant Tortoises fits into a normal itinerary without extra days.
Can Trripah include Prison Island & Giant Tortoises in a Zanzibar package?
Yes. Tell us your dates and group and we add Prison Island & Giant Tortoises to a Zanzibar plan with flights, hotels and transfers, usually within 24 hours.