See the most fascinating historical sites in Stone Town and Prison Island. After diving into the local history, dive into the beautiful waters alongside giant tortoises and colorful fish.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible—book your spot and pay nothing today. Learn more
Duration 6 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English, French, German, Italian
Pickup included: This option includes a collection within the North & North East area only - please confirm your hotel details
Private group

Highlights

Explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city
Walking on narrows streets of Stone Town to see the local life
Visit Lloyd Mathew's monument

Full description

See the National Museum of Zanzibar (rebuilt in 1883) and the Arab fort while passing along bazaar streets towards the famous Freddie Mercury house. See the old slave market, fruit market, and spice market — don’t miss the classic Zanzibar curved doors decorating the stone town. After you have explored Stone Town, you’ll have an opportunity to take a short break before heading to Prison Island. Prison Island is also known as Changuu Island, the nickname came from the island being used by some sultans of Zanzibar to detain enslaved people.

While you are on this island, you can swim and take pictures with giant tortoises.

Includes

Pickup and drop-off from your hotel
Entrance fees
Transport waiting charge
Experienced professional tour guide
Taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees

Beverages

Not suitable for

Pregnant women
People with mobility impairments

Covid-19 precautions

You must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must fill out a travel information form
You will receive a mandatory temperature check

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Swimwear
Towel
Sunscreen
Water

Know before you go

Please keep in mind that the first portion of your tour you will be walking, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water
The second portion of your tour you will have the opportunity to swim and relax on the beach
Bring swimwear and a snack

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 48 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.7/5
Transportation
4.4/5
Value for money
4.3/5
Safety
4.5/5

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Prison Island ist leider aufgrund des vielen Mülls und der schlechten Haltung der jungen Schildkröten sehr enttäuschend. Mehr ist auch fast nicht zu erkunden. Stone Town ist auf jeden Fall eine Erkundung wert, fast schon zwangsweise mit Guide, da man sich sonst nicht zurecht findet. Wenn man dann noch so ein netten Guide hat wie Muhammed, macht es darauf eine Tour die sich gelohnt hat.

March 9, 2022

Our guide (Hadji) was on time, he was very helpful and insightful ... He gave us an unforgettable experience... The 4 miles crossing from Stone town to Prison island was Breath taking... At Prison island, we fed and massaged old (100years) and very young tortoise ... They enjoyed it... Then we sailed back to Stone town and visited the historic city center... (Slavery museum, slaves room, Freddy Mercury's house, spice && Fish && meat market) etc... I recommend this activity to anyone who want to learn more about the history of Zanzibar...

December 28, 2021

We had a very nice walk in Stone Town and then with a boat to Prison Island. It was indeed very interesting and fun. The snorkling spot, wasn´t the best though. Not much to see, but I guess you can´t combine everything at one. If you´re more into snorkling then there are other trips worthy for you. The lunch in the typical african restaurant was also very interesting and the place was really full. Enjoy!

August 25, 2021

Stone Town: Stone Town and Prison Island Private Day Trip

Stone Town: Stone Town and Prison Island Private Day Trip

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