Full Day Stone Town and Prison Island Tour in Zanzibar

Full-Day Stone Town & Prison Island Tour in Zanzibar – History, Culture & Giant Tortoises

Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Duration: 8 Hours (Full Day)
Tour Type: Private or Small Group
Pick-Up Included: Yes – From South, North, and North East Coast Hotels
Availability: Daily departures with advance booking

Tour Overview

Discover Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage and coastal charm on this full-day tour to UNESCO-listed Stone Town and historic Prison Island (Changuu Island). Wander through labyrinthine alleyways lined with coral stone buildings, see iconic historical landmarks, then sail to a tropical island sanctuary inhabited by giant Aldabra tortoises. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a deep cultural experience mixed with nature and marine exploration.

️ What to Expect

️ Stone Town Walking Tour – Zanzibar's Cultural Heart

• Morning hotel pick-up from your accommodation in Zanzibar (South, North, or North-East).

• Join your local guide on a walking tour through Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Stroll down some of the world’s narrowest streets, exploring Zanzibar’s unique blend of Arab, Indian, European, and African architecture.

• Visit historical landmarks, including:

  • The Old Fort (Arab Fort)

  • House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

  • Sultan’s Palace Museum

  • Freddie Mercury’s House

  • Local mosques, churches, and Hindu temples

• Discover Zanzibar’s cosmopolitan history, shaped by trade, religion, and empire.

• Enjoy a break at a local restaurant (lunch at own cost, $15–$30 per person).

️ Prison Island Visit – Changuu Island Adventure

• Board a traditional motorboat for a scenic ride to Prison Island (Changuu).

• Learn about the island’s dramatic past:

  • Former prison for rebellious slaves and quarantine station post-abolition

  • Now a protected sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 150 years old

• Explore the white-sand beaches, relax under the palms, or go for a swim or snorkel (gear not included).

• Spot diverse birdlife and take stunning photos of Zanzibar’s turquoise waters.

Return Transfer

• Sail back to Stone Town and enjoy a comfortable drive back to your hotel by early evening.

✅ What’s Included

• ✔️ Hotel pick-up and drop-off (South, North, and North-East Coast hotels)

• ✔️ Entrance fees to Stone Town attractions and Prison Island

• ✔️ Professional English-speaking guide

• ✔️ Boat transfers to/from Prison Island

• ✔️ Walking tour of Stone Town

• ✔️ Visit to the giant tortoise sanctuary

❌ What’s Not Included

• ✖️ Lunch at local restaurant (à la carte options $15–$30)

• ✖️ Drinks and snacks

• ✖️ Snorkeling gear (available for rent)

• ✖️ Tips & gratuities (optional)

Pick-Up Regions & Hotels

️ South Coast Hotels:

Swahili Beach Resort, Karamba Beach Resort, Unguja Lodge, Breezes Beach Club, Baraza Resort, Arabian Nights, Kichanga Lodge, The Palm, The Residence Zanzibar, Karafuu Beach Resort, and more.

️ North Coast Hotels:

Amaan Bungalows, DoubleTree by Hilton Nungwi, Essque Zalu, Gold Zanzibar, Hideaway of Nungwi, The Z Hotel, Ras Nungwi, Royal Zanzibar, Kilindi, Tanzanite Beach Resort, Mnarani, and others.

North-East Coast Hotels:

Bluebay Beach Resort, Dream of Zanzibar, Melia Zanzibar, Matemwe Lodge, Ocean Paradise, Neptune Pwani, Sultan Sands, Shooting Star Lodge, Azanzi, Villa Kiva, and more.

Why Book This Tour?

• Explore UNESCO-listed Stone Town, a hub of culture and trade

• Visit Prison Island and interact with century-old giant tortoises

• Enjoy scenic boat rides and relaxing coastal views

• Discover Zanzibar’s heritage, wildlife, and Indian Ocean beauty in one full-day experience

• Perfect for cultural explorers, history buffs, and beach lovers