PRISON ISLAND

Prison Island Tour

Prison Island gets its name from the prison built to condemn Zanzibar citizens to the isolation of the island. Previously owned by an Arab to house his rebellious slaves, the prison was never used, and the island is now home to a tortoise sanctuary, prison ruins and hotel.

Observe the giant tortoises shuffle through the trees with the patience that old age brings. Originally thought to be from the Comoros Islands’ and Seychelles, some of these tortoises are said to be over 100 years old. Stately and lumbering, the tortoises have even been known to take children on a ride.

Lunch is available on the island and then you are free to do as you wish. You can explore one of the hiking trails, snorkel in search of colorful tropical fish darting through the reef or soak up some sun on the powder white beach.