Prison Island tour

Prison Island Half-Day Tour: History, Wildlife, and Coastal Beauty 🏝️

After breakfast, we drive to Stone Town to catch a boat to Prison Island for a half-day tour. The island lies just off the coast of Old Stone Town and is best known for its colony of giant Aldabra tortoises. These tortoises were imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century and are now under strict conservation. Many of the tortoises on the island are over a hundred years old, making them a living connection to the island’s past.

Once on the island, you have the chance to feed and gently touch the tortoises. If time allows, you can also take a stroll through the forested interior, where you will find a variety of birds and colorful peacocks. The island’s peaceful atmosphere and wildlife make it a wonderful escape from the busy streets of Stone Town.

Prison Island has a complex and important history. Before the prison was built, the island was used by an Arab slave trader as a holding place for slaves brought from the African mainland. The purpose was to prevent escape before the slaves were transported to the Arabian market or sold in Zanzibar’s slave trade.

In 1893, Lloyd Mathews built a prison on the island to house violent criminals from the mainland. However, the prison was never fully used for this purpose. Instead, the island later became a quarantine center for yellow fever epidemics that affected the region. The government maintained ownership of the island and converted the newer quarantine buildings into a guest house.

Today, Prison Island is also known for its beautiful beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The island offers stunning views of Stone Town, especially at sunset or in the evening. The white sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The coral reefs surrounding the island are ideal for snorkeling, providing a chance to see colorful marine life close to Stone Town. While it may not be the most varied snorkeling site in Zanzibar, its convenience and accessibility make it a great choice for a quick underwater adventure during a city break.

The island’s restaurant, Matthews, is well-known for its charming atmosphere and sea views, making it a pleasant place to enjoy a meal during the visit. A short guided tour around the island provides a deeper understanding of its history and natural beauty. Overall, the Prison Island excursion is a relaxing and memorable half-day trip that combines wildlife, history, and coastal scenery in one unique experience.