Prison Island and Giant Tortoises Tour – From Central and East Hotels
Discover Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, on a guided Zanzibar excursion with Cruzeiro Safaris. Travel from your Central or East hotel to the boat departure point, cross to the island, visit the giant tortoise sanctuary and learn about its historical background. Enjoy coastal views and an optional snorkelling opportunity when sea conditions permit, with snorkelling equipment included.
Tour Overview
- Destination: Prison Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania.
- Tour type: Guided island, history and wildlife excursion.
- Pickup: Your confirmed hotel in Zanzibar’s Central or East area.
- Drop-off: Your pickup hotel, unless otherwise agreed.
- Transport: Return hotel road transfers and return boat transfers.
- Guide language: English.
- Included admission: Giant tortoise sanctuary entrance.
- Included equipment: Snorkelling equipment.
- Minimum booking: Two adults.
- Timing: Pickup time and total excursion duration are confirmed after booking.
Detailed Itinerary
1. Hotel Pickup and Transfer to the Boat Departure Point
Begin your excursion with collection from your confirmed Central or East hotel. Travel by road to the boat departure point in the Stone Town area, where your guide will introduce the programme and explain the boarding arrangements.
The exact pickup time depends on your hotel location and the confirmed boat schedule. Please be ready at the meeting point stated in your booking confirmation.
2. Boat Crossing to Prison Island
Board your boat for the journey to Prison Island. Enjoy views of Zanzibar’s waterfront and the surrounding Indian Ocean as you approach Changuu Island.
Follow the crew’s instructions during boarding and throughout the crossing. Boat departure times and travel conditions depend on weather, tides and local operations.
3. Guided Introduction to the Island’s History
On arrival, explore the designated visitor areas with your English-speaking guide. Learn about the island’s historical background, the origins of its familiar name and its former quarantine role.
View the historic buildings encountered along the visitor route and enjoy opportunities for photographs. Access to individual buildings depends on the areas open on the day; additional paid admissions apply only where expressly included.
4. Visit the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary
Enter the giant tortoise sanctuary, with admission included in your tour. Observe the tortoises at close viewing distance while respecting the sanctuary’s rules and allowing the animals space to move.
Your guide will introduce the sanctuary and explain appropriate behaviour around the tortoises. Any feeding or contact must follow staff instructions and use only materials supplied or approved by the sanctuary. Do not climb on, chase or lift the animals.
Allow time for photographs from permitted visitor areas and enjoy observing the tortoises’ movements and behaviour.
5. Coastal Scenery and Optional Snorkelling
After the sanctuary visit, enjoy the island’s coastal setting. Where the programme and sea conditions allow, use the included snorkelling equipment for an optional session at a location selected by the excursion team.
Before entering the water, receive instructions on equipment use and the permitted activity area. Advise the team of your swimming ability and follow their guidance throughout. Guests who prefer not to snorkel can enjoy the coastal scenery from designated areas.
Snorkelling access, underwater visibility and marine life sightings depend on conditions on the day. Avoid touching coral or disturbing marine animals.
6. Return Boat Journey to the Mainland
At the agreed departure time, rejoin your boat for the return crossing. Enjoy a final view of the island and Zanzibar’s coastline as you travel back to the mainland.
7. Transfer Back to Your Hotel
Meet your driver for the return road transfer to your Central or East hotel. Your arrival time depends on the boat schedule, sea conditions, traffic and hotel location.
What Is Included
- Return hotel road transfers from the confirmed Central or East hotel.
- Return boat transfers to Prison Island.
- English-speaking guide.
- Snorkelling equipment.
- Giant tortoise sanctuary entrance.
What Is Not Included
- Lunch.
- Drinks.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Personal expenses.
Booking Conditions and Child Rates
Rates are valid for travel from 1 January to 31 December 2027 and are subject to availability. A minimum booking of two adults is required. Children are charged 75% of the applicable adult price. Please provide children’s ages when requesting your quotation so suitable arrangements can be checked.
What to Bring
- Comfortable footwear suitable for walking and boat boarding.
- Swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to snorkel.
- Sun protection, sunglasses and a hat.
- Drinking water.
- A waterproof bag or protective cover for valuables.
- Money for optional purchases and tips.
Important Information
This excursion involves boat boarding, walking and optional water activities. Please advise Cruzeiro Safaris of mobility requirements or swimming limitations before booking so suitability can be checked.
Snorkelling is optional and subject to suitable weather and sea conditions. Equipment inclusion does not guarantee that snorkelling will be possible on the day. Children must be supervised by their accompanying adults.
The itinerary may be adjusted according to boat operations, attraction access and local conditions. Exclusive vehicle or boat use applies only where expressly confirmed in your booking.
Book with Cruzeiro Safaris
Send your preferred travel date, Central or East hotel name, number of adults and children, and any special requirements. Cruzeiro Safaris will confirm availability, the quotation, pickup time and final excursion arrangements.
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