Stone Town and Prison Island from Zanzibar
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A great combination of the two activities that formed a unique full Stone Town’s History and Nature tours
Available options
Applied Family Discounts
Pickup included
Stone Town and Prison Island
Standard Price<br/>Pickup included
Applied Group Discounts
Pickup included
Add Spice Tour
Spice Tour: Fantastic trip for the discovery of what hides in this lsland, get to know the origins of these all spices toward plantations<br/>Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Professional art historian guide
Blue Economy Conservation fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit Prison Island, a former prison for slaves and a quarantine station for Zanzibar and Mainland. Visit the giant tortoises and enjoy the fantastic white sandy beach and spectacular natural forest teeming with variety of birds and snorkeling near the Island.
2
Stop 2
Visit Portuguese Old Fort. It was built by Omani Arabs after expelling the Portuguese in 1699. It was used as a garrison and prison in the 19th century, and as a terminal of the Zanzibar railways 1945-28. A new guardhouse was built in 1947 and used as the ladies' club, and an amphitheatre was added in the 1990s.
3
Sightseeing
4
Visit The Roman Catholic cathedral of St. Joseph. One of the most important historical buildings in Stone Town. The church is regularly used by the local Catholic community, with several masses being held each Sunday and occasionally on weekdays.
5
Visit Freddy Mercury House, the former lead singer of Queen, was born in Zanzibar in 1946 where his name was Farrokh Bulsara. The museum is set in the actual house that Freddie and his family lived, prior to their move to the UK. It covers Freddie's birth and early childhood in Zanzibar.
6
Discover the ancient life of the city, culture and their folklore. The discovery of ancient buildings the doors owe their distinctive brass studs to India.Countless shops to buy various goods (antiques, pictures, traditional clothes, valuable handcrafts
7
Visit The Anglican cathedral Church and the old Slave Market. The Church is one of the most prominent examples of early Christian architecture in East Africa.The church is located in the center of the old town, and occupies a large area where the biggest slave market of Zanzibar used to be; the construction of the cathedral was in fact intended to celebrate the end of slavery.
8
Stop 8
Visit the Old Market of Fish Vegetables & Fruits. Spices and various things...
What's not included
Food and drinks
Prison Island Park fees
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
19 reviews
5★
10
4★
5
3★
3
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.0
28 reviews
5★
9
4★
14
3★
3
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
