Full-Day Stone Town & Prison Island Tour – History, Culture & Tortoises
Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania |
Duration: ~8 hours |
Tour Type: Small Group or Private |
Transport: Hotel pick-up & drop-off included |
Departure Points: Central Zanzibar (Stone Town, Fumba, Pongwe, Uroa)
- Two icons in one day: UNESCO-listed Stone Town + idyllic Prison Island
- Giant Aldabra tortoises at the island sanctuary
- Atmospheric alleys, spice-scented markets, and carved wooden doors
- Scenic boat ride with time to relax, swim, or snorkel (optional)
Tour Overview
Trace centuries of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influence as you wander Stone Town’s maze of
coral-stone streets, then cruise across turquoise waters to Prison (Changuu) Island—home to
giant Aldabra tortoises, powdery beaches, and a layered colonial past.
The perfect blend of culture, history, and coastal nature—wrapped into one effortless day.
What to Expect
Morning — Stone Town Walking Tour
- Hotel pick-up from Stone Town, Fumba, Pongwe, or Uroa.
- Meet your professional guide and explore the UNESCO-listed old city on foot.
- Wind through some of the world’s narrowest alleys, past ornate doors and lively bazaars.
- Key sights (exteriors where applicable): Old Fort, House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib), Sultan’s Palace Museum, and Freddie Mercury’s House.
- Hear stories of the slave trade, religious diversity, and Swahili heritage.
Midday — Optional Local Lunch
- Break for lunch (own expense, ~$15–$30) at a local restaurant—choose from Swahili, seafood, and international dishes.
Afternoon — Prison Island Exploration
- Board a motorboat from Stone Town and cruise to Prison (Changuu) Island.
- Learn how the island moved from a detention site to a 19th-century quarantine station.
- Visit the giant tortoise sanctuary (some residents are well over a century old). Please follow ranger guidance and do not touch or climb on the tortoises.
- Unwind on the beach; swim or snorkel in clear waters (snorkel gear available to rent on-site).
- Enjoy sweeping views of Stone Town on the boat ride back.
Return Transfer
- Boat back to the mainland and hotel drop-off in the late afternoon/early evening.
✅ Inclusions
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off (Stone Town, Fumba, Pongwe, Uroa)
- Entrance fees to listed attractions
- Guided Stone Town walking tour
- Return boat transfer to/from Prison Island
- Visit to the giant tortoise sanctuary
- English-speaking professional guide
❌ Exclusions
- Meals & drinks (lunch available ~$15–$30)
- Snorkeling equipment rental (optional, on-site)
- Personal expenses
- Tips & gratuities (optional)
Hotel Pick-Up Zones
- Central Hotels: Tamarind Hotel, Pongwe Beach Hotel, Pongwe Bay, Uroa Bay
- Fumba & Mangapwani: Fumba Beach Lodge, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa, Hakuna Matata Beach Lodge
- Staying elsewhere? Pick-up can be arranged; a small supplement may apply.
Good to Know
- Dress code: Stone Town is culturally conservative—please wear modest clothing that covers shoulders/knees.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; some uneven surfaces in the old town.
- Sun & sea: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up; seas can be choppy at times.
- Swim/snorkel: Towel and swimwear recommended; snorkel gear available to rent or bring your own.
- Accessibility: Walking portions and boat access may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Ready to explore Stone Town & Prison Island?
Secure your spot for an unforgettable day of history, culture, and coastal wildlife.
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