Prison Island and Zanzibar Stone Town Experience

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Prison Island and Zanzibar Stone Town Experience

Active

(6 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The tour provides chance of exploring UNESCO world heritage site; therefore, guests will be able to learn a lot about the history of the East African old town, Zanzibar history, norms and tradition, art and culture, experiencing narrow alleys and walk down the local bazaar, the tour will take tourists to see Freddy Mercury House, shopping at the bazaar, show stone town architecture, visit Zanzibar doors and take nice pictures and so much more

In addition to that, guests will learn and hear much information about the longest living creatures on earth, which is the giant tortoises, take very nice pictures with these, and in addition to that go to visit the old prison

The tour fits all, from single travelers and couple, family with children as well as student groups and elders

Available options

Prison Island and Zanzibar Stone Town Experience

What's included

Scenic Local Boat for go and return, as well as Professional Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Prison Island got its name from the prison built to separate Zanzibar citizens to the isolation of the Island looking out at the coast. Previously owned by Arab to house his rebellious slaves, the prison was never used and the Island is now home to a tortoise sanctuary and prison ruins. Prison Island is 30 minutes away from stone town by local boat. Originally thought to be from the Islands of Seychelles some of these tortoises are said to be over 100 years old. .The prison Island is a great companion to a morning city tour. After an eventful morning of walking through the busy streets of Zanzibar, you can enjoy this slow and relaxing island excursion.

Stop 2

Follow the trails of the sultans, slaves and explorers in the winding streets of stone town. Your guide will tell you about the events that shaped Zanzibar, leading through the buildings where it all happened such as the former slave market, Anglican cathedral and house of wonders. While tracing steps of the past, the walking tour provides you with a window into modern life in stone town. Explore the markets, sea food and fish piled in the fish market, fresh loaves of bread in wicker baskets and the neat stacks of fruit and vegetables. Children play in the streets in the residential areas, mamas sit out and gossip while the men play board games. The stone town walking tour is very flexible and can be adapted to suit your interest and time frame, if you are a shopaholic, culture vulture or history buff. If you want to hunt for antiques and souvenir shop. Our guide can recommend and develop routes and itineraries that will optimize your time and get the most out of your trip.

What's not included

Tips(optional)

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Go at the Forodhani Park, get inside the park right in the middle you will see a pavilion or a podium, you will find me there sitting on the bench wearing a cap and a small bag

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.