About
Prison Island, known locally as Changuu, is a small island sanctuary lying just off the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania. It is an easy trip from Stone Town, and many visitors make it a half-day outing, combining the boat crossing with time on the island itself.
The island has a varied history. It was once used as a quarantine station, and its old buildings and ruins still stand among the trees, giving the place a quiet, historic character. Today it is protected as a wildlife conservation area, and its focus has shifted from isolation to nature.
What to see
- Giant Aldabra tortoises, which roam the grounds and are the island's best-known residents. They are large, slow and often close enough to observe at leisure.
- Historic ruins, remnants of the island's past as a quarantine station, which make an interesting walk.
- Coral reefs in the waters around the island, which are well suited to snorkeling.
What kind of visit it makes
Prison Island suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, gentle walks and time in the water. It is a relaxed outing rather than a long excursion, and it pairs well with a day spent exploring Zanzibar's other attractions. Those interested in history will find the ruins worth a look, while families and nature lovers will likely enjoy the tortoises most.
Because the island is a protected conservation area, visitors are asked to respect the animals and the surrounding reef. Planning the trip around a boat crossing from Stone Town is the usual way to reach it.