Stone Town & Prison Island Full-Day Tour – From Stone Town Hotels

Full-Day Stone Town & Prison Island Tour in Zanzibar – From Stone Town Hotels

Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Duration: 7–8 Hours
Tour Type: Private or Small Group
Pickup Included: Yes – From Stone Town Hotels
Languages: English-speaking guide (others on request)
Availability: Daily departures

Tour Overview

Step into the rich history and vibrant culture of Zanzibar on this full-day guided tour from Stone Town. Explore the winding alleys, bustling markets, and grand architecture of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, then sail across turquoise waters to Prison Island (Changuu Island), home to giant Aldabra tortoises, historic ruins, and idyllic white sand beaches.

Perfect for travelers looking to uncover Zanzibar’s heritage and natural beauty, this experience blends architecture, history, wildlife, and Indian Ocean relaxation — all within a single day.

️ What to Expect

️ Morning: Stone Town Walking Tour

• Pick-up from your Stone Town hotel (see list below) at approximately 9:00 AM.

• Start your guided walking tour through Stone Town’s labyrinthine streets, rich with Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.

• Visit major historic sites including:

  • The Old Fort (Arab Fort)

  • House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

  • Sultan’s Palace Museum

  • Freddie Mercury’s birthplace

  • Local mosques, churches, and Hindu temples

• Learn about Zanzibar’s unique past — from the slave trade era to its role as a key trading port.

• Capture the charm of carved wooden doors, spice bazaars, and colorful markets.

️ Midday: Local Lunch Break (Optional)

• Stop at a recommended local restaurant for lunch (own expense).

• Choose from a variety of Swahili, Indian, and seafood specialties (meals typically range from $15–$30 USD).

️ Afternoon: Prison Island Exploration

• Transfer to the beachfront and board a motorized boat to Prison Island (Changuu Island).

• Discover the island’s colonial past — once a detention center for rebellious slaves, later a quarantine site during cholera outbreaks.

• Visit the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, where you’ll meet Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old.

• Enjoy time to relax on the white-sand beaches, swim, or snorkel in the clear, warm waters (snorkeling gear not included).

Return Transfer

• After a relaxing island visit, return by boat to Stone Town and enjoy drop-off at your hotel by early evening.

✅ What’s Included

• ✔️ Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Stone Town hotels only)

• ✔️ Professional, English-speaking guide

• ✔️ Entrance fees to all attractions

• ✔️ Guided Stone Town walking tour

• ✔️ Boat transfer to and from Prison Island

• ✔️ Visit to the giant tortoise sanctuary

❌ Not Included

• ✖️ Lunch and drinks (available for purchase)

• ✖️ Snorkeling equipment

• ✖️ Tips and gratuities (optional)

• ✖️ Personal expenses

Pick-Up Available From These Stone Town Hotels:

• Luxury & Boutique Hotels: Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Maru Maru Hotel, Mashariki Palace Hotel, Zanzibar Serena Inn, Kisiwa House, The Swahili House, Zanzibar Palace

• Standard Hotels: Tembo House, Dhow Palace, The Zanzibar Grand Palace, Africa House, Tausi Palace, Al Johari Hotel, Asmini Palace Hotel, Khole House, Hiliki House

• International Chains: DoubleTree by Hilton (Stone Town)

Why Travelers Love This Tour

• ️ Dive into the history of a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Meet giant Aldabra tortoises in their natural habitat

• ️ Enjoy a scenic boat ride and coastal views

• Experience the architectural fusion of Arab, Indian, and Swahili styles

• Perfect mix of culture, photography, and beach time

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