Changuu Island also known as Prison Island lies about 30 min by boat from Stone Town. The island was formerly owned by an Arab and saw use for confinement of refractory slaves but no prisoners were ever housed here instead the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever epidemics. It was bought by General Lloyd Mathews and the jail (goal) which still stands was built in 1893 and hence the name “PRISON ISLAND”.
In 1919 the British governor of Seychelles sent a gift in form of four Aldabra giant tortoises to Changuu. Presently this species is considered vulnerable and has been placed on the IUCN Red List. There is a dedicated foundation on the island which looks after the tortoises' ...
Highlights
3 hours
Offered in English
Non-refundable
Mobile Ticket
3 hours
Offered in English
Non-refundable
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Important Information
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
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Bring towels and swimming suit
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Snorkeling is optional (bring own gears)
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
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You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the excursion spot.
The Aldabra Giant Tortoise sanctuary is a major tourist lure and the oldest tortoise is 192 years old. The turtles are not indigenous and are magisterial creatures, weighing in at an average of 200 kg some are as old as over 100 years (4 turtles are 150 years). You can feed them at a fee paid at the Island, but watch out for their snapping beaks.
Other marine life is also reasonably rich and Changuu provides good snorkelling. It is by no means the most extensive or varied snorkelling spot off the coast of Zanzibar, but being so close to Stone Town and so easily accessible makes it ideal for those who want to see ‘und...
Changuu Island also known as Prison Island lies about 30 min by boat from Stone Town. The island was formerly owned by an Arab and saw use for confinement of refractory slaves but no prisoners were ever housed here instead the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever epidemics. It was bought by General Lloyd Mathews and the jail (goal) which still stands was built in 1893 and hence the name “PRISON ISLAND”.
In 1919 the British governor of Seychelles sent a gift in form of four Aldabra giant tortoises to Changuu. Presently this species is considered vulnerable and has been placed on the IUCN Red List. There is a dedicated foundation on the island which looks after the tortoises' ...