Marine life, History, Giant tortoise zoo, and a bit of wildlife. Changuu island famous known as Prison Island located at the north-west of Stone Town off the western coast of Zanzibar can easily be reachable by traditional wooden motorized boats. The island was once a detention hub for the defiant slaves en route abroad for sales or to the Zanzibar slave market. In 1893 a Prison was constructed on the island to hold criminals hence the name “Prison Island” However it was not used as such and turned into a quarantine site to accommodate the Patients from disease epidemics mostly Yellow fever. Currently, Prison Island serves as a tourist attractive destination with a charming atmosphere that is home to endangered Giant Aldabra tortoises. The trip departs between 08h30 and 09h00 onboard an air-conditioned vehicle to Stone Town seashore to board a traditional motor boat for a scenic boat ride of about 30 minutes that allows you to enjoy a spectacular view of Stone Town from the sea as we approach the island. Upon arrival on Prison Island, our Professional Tour guide will outline the general information of the place and offer a memorable moment to feed and pet the tortoises, some of them aged over a hundred years old but still strong enough to breed! The island is a peaceful place for beautiful butterflies, a variety of birds, and colorful Peacocks flaunting their gorgeous tail while we admire them closely. During the tour, we can stroll around the ruin of the prison and forested interior where by chance your eyes might spot Dik-diks, a shy species of tiny antelope that exist on the island but is rare to expose themselves. Prison Island has a nice white sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, fringed with beautiful coral reefs and crystal water to swim or snorkel at leisure as part of the excursion. This is one of the highly recommended tours in Zanzibar that is not to miss. Note
- Lunch not included
- Food and drinks can personally be purchased on the island or at Stone Town
- Departure timing can change to your wish
- Bring sunglasses, headwear, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and water-resistant shoes.
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