PRISON ISLAND
Overview
- Private boat tour
- Explore the beautiful island
- See giant tortoises
- Learn about the history of Prison Island in a small museum
- Add-on: Visit Nakupenda Beach
- Add-on: Explore Stone Town on a guided tour
Visit Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises and fascinating history. Explore the old prison ruins and learn about the island’s past. Many visitors combine this tour with Nakupenda Beach – a paradise-like sandbank nearby – or a guided Stone Town tour for a full experience.
Everything You Need To Know
The tour includes hotel transfers (if needed), a private boat ride to Prison Island, a guided tour of the historical site, and the chance to see the famous giant tortoises.
The tour lasts around 2 hours, including the boat ride and the island exploration.
We start the boat tour from Stone Town.
Hotel transfers can be arranged from any area of Zanzibar.
It’s recommended to bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a towel if you plan to swim.
The tour is available in English, German, Spanish, French and Italian.
Let us know your preference in advance and we will pair you with the perfect guide for you!
Prison Island is known for its giant tortoises, some over 100 years old. You’ll also explore the old prison building, which once served as a quarantine station.
Snorkeling is not included in the Prison Island Tour, but if you’re interested, you can combine the tour with a visit to Nakupenda Beach, where you can enjoy snorkeling and relax on the sandbank.
Yes, the Prison Island Tour is family-friendly. Children will enjoy seeing the giant tortoises and spending time on the beach.
Yes, there are small shops on the island where you can buy local crafts and souvenirs.
The tour can still take place in light rain. In case of heavy rain or unsafe weather conditions, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded.
We charge a deposit of 20% to reserve the tour. The remaining 80% can be paid in cash (euros, dollars or tanzanian shillings) after the tour or online in advance.
The price is in Euros. We use the exchange rates as seen on Google the day before the tour for currency conversion.
You can cancel (or change) the tour up to 24 hours before the start time and we will issue a full refund without any questions asked.
Just send us a message on WhatsApp.
Any questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to us, we will be happy to help!
- Response within 24 hours
- No obligations
- Talk to your personal travel consultant
Why Rafiki Tours?
‘Rafiki’ means ‘Friend’ in Swahili and that is our promise to you: With Rafiki Tours, you’re not just booking an activity – you’re gaining a trusted friend in Zanzibar, ready to help with advice, support, or whatever you might need during your stay.
- Top Rated Tour Operator on Zanzibar
- Quick Response Time
- Knowledgeable travel consultants
- Experienced local guides
- Flexible scheduling
- Competetive rates
