Prison Island

Lloyd Mathews erected the prison in 1893 with the intent to transport violent prisoners from the Tanganyika mainland. Formerly a slave prison and a quarantine station for Zanzibar, Prison Island (Changuu) today offers you the opportunity to get away for some peace and quiet just off the coast of Old Stone Town.

The island is world-famous as the home of Zanzibar's Giant Aldabran Tortoise colony, imported from the Seychelles in the late 1800s as a gift. It is an incredible experience to feed and pet these endangered giants, some of which are over a century old!

Beyond the tortoises, you can take a trip through the forested interior to witness colorful peacocks, bats, and butterflies. Keep a watch out for the secretive and elusive Duikers, a rare species of small antelope. The island also boasts a nice white beach for sunbathing and a stunning coral reef for snorkeling.