Prison Island and Stone Town Tour with Lunch

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Prison Island and Stone Town Tour with Lunch

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About this experience

Explore the rich culture and history of Zanzibar with a visit to Prison island by dhow. See the large tortoises that inhabit the island, and enjoy the opportunity to snorkel off the coast. Admire the stunning landscape as you swim with colorful fish. After relax in small sand island and feel like you are discoverer. Day well spend.

Stone Town is a city of prominent historical and artistic importance in East Africa. Its architecture, mostly dating back to the 19th century, reflects the diverse influences underlying the Swahili culture, giving a unique mixture of Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements. For this reason, the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

Available options

Prison Island and Stone Town Tour with Lunch

With Any Beach Hotel Transfer

What's included

Private boat

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Lunch

Use of Snorkelling equipment

Detailed itinerary

The tour will start in one of the most important parts of the Old slave Market site (Anglican Church) through the narrow streets. The next stop will be at City Market. Here you can see the biggest market on both islands. Locals buy and sell anything here. Freshest fruits are here. People also have fish action where they bid price on sea creatures.
Afterward, you will cover main objects of Stown Town as The Palace Museum, House of wonder, which is the largest and tallest building in Stown Town a.k.a. Bait -al- ajab, an Old fort, Tippu Tip and of course most famous Freddie’s Mercury’s House. Also a visit to Peace memorial and Natural History Museum and many more.

Stop 2

Your Zanzibar adventure begins with a visit to Prison Island, purchased in 1893 by Lloyd Mathews, the British First Minister of Zanzibar at the time. Mathews constructed a prison complex on the island which is still visible today, however no prisoners were ever housed on the island and instead it became a quarantine station for yellow fever sufferers.

On the island, spend some time exploring the area and discover the collection of over 50 tortoises that live here, some of which are more than 100 years old. Learn about why the tortoises call the island their home, as well as taking photos and feeding them too. The island is also home to peacocks and small antelope too.

What's not included

Minai conservation fee

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In Front Of Old Fort In Stone Town At 9:00AM

About Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.

Top Attractions

Stone Town

The heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Prison Island

A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and historical significance as a former slave prison.

Historical/Nature Half day Moderate (entry fee and boat ride)

Nungwi Beach

One of Zanzibar's most famous beaches, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Beach Full day Free to access, activities vary

Jozani Forest

Zanzibar's only national park, home to the rare Red Colobus monkey and diverse birdlife.

Nature Half day Moderate (entry fee and guide)

Kizimkazi

A historic village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.

Cultural Half day Moderate (dolphin tour fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Urojo

A spicy Zanzibari soup made with cassava, potatoes, and sometimes meat or seafood, served with coconut and chili sauce.

Snack Vegetarian option available

Coconut Rice

Rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish or meat.

Main Vegetarian option available

Zanzibar Pizza

A local street food item made with a thin, flaky pastry filled with eggs, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a griddle.

Snack Customizable to dietary preferences

Biriyani

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables, influenced by Indian cuisine.

Main Vegetarian option available

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Island hopping Spice tours Dolphin tours Beach relaxation Sunset cruises Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Arabic, Indigenous languages
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Use common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from Stone Town

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but can be crowded. Useful for reaching popular destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Stone Town Nungwi Kendwa Jambiani

Day trips

Pemba Island

100 km • Full day to overnight

Known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, Pemba Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.

Chumbe Island

12 km • Full day

A small island known for its coral reef sanctuary and lighthouse, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Mafia Island

150 km • Overnight

Known for its remote beaches, excellent fishing, and whale shark sightings, Mafia Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.

Festivals

Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July Mwaka Kogwa • July Zanzibar Carnival • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Hire a local guide for spice tours and historical sites to gain deeper insights.
Visit the Forodhani Gardens night market for a taste of local street food.
Book a sunset cruise for a romantic and memorable experience.
Explore the island's diverse regions, from the bustling Stone Town to the serene beaches of Kendwa and Jambiani.