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Prison Island

Overview
Itinerary
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Overview

Discover the tranquil beauty of Prison Island, just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Once a slave prison and quarantine station, today it’s a peaceful sanctuary home to giant Aldabra tortoises—some over 100 years old. Wander through lush forests alive with vibrant birds, butterflies, and rare antelopes. Swim and snorkel along the coral-fringed shores or relax on the pristine white beach. This tour offers a perfect blend of fascinating history, unique wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views.

Short boat ride from Stone Town offering stunning sea views
Visit the historic island, once a slave prison and quarantine station
Meet giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old
Explore lush forests home to colourful birds, butterflies, and shy antelopes
Snorkel vibrant coral reefs or relax on pristine white sandy beaches

Itinerary

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Earning its name as a former prison for slaves and a quarantine station for Zanzibar and the mainland, nowadays the island gives you the chance to escape for some peace and quiet. The island lies just off the Old Stone Town, it is also a home to giant land tortoises that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th century. Now it is more commonly known as a home of Zanzibar’s Giant Aldabran Tortoise colony, some of which are over a hundred years old! This endangered species came to Zanzibar as a gift from the government of the Seychelles. Once on the island, you have the opportunity to see tortoises, if you have time you may also like to take a stroll through the forested interior where you will see a wide variety of birds, colorful peacocks, bats, and beautiful butterflies. Keep your eyes peeled too for the shy and elusive Duikers – an unusual tiny antelope species. It is fringed with a beautiful coral reef, ideal for snorkeling, and has a lovely white beach for sunbathing. This tour is a great way to see some history and wildlife, and also to see Stone Town from the sea as many old maritime legends would have done

Include & Exclude

Includes

Round-trip boat transfer from Stone Town to Prison Island
Guided tour of the island’s historic sites and wildlife
Entrance fees to Prison Island and the tortoise sanctuary
Opportunity to see giant Aldabra tortoises and explore nature trails
Snorkelling gear for coral reef exploration
Bottled water during the tour
All taxes and service charges

Excludes

Meals and beverages (unless specified)
Hotel transfers to and from Stone Town docks
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Tips and gratuities
Towels and swimwear

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