Stone Town & Prison Island Tour

Stone Town & Changuu Island

also known as Kibandiko, Prison or Quarantine Island is a small island 5.6 km (3.5 miles) northwest of Stone Town, Unguja, Zanzibar, Tanzania. The island is around 800 m (2,600 ft) long and 230 m (750 ft) wide at its broadest point. The island saw use as a prison for rebellious slaves in 1860s and also functioned as a coral mine.

Stone Town is a historic city located on the western coast of Zanzibar Island in Tanzania, East Africa. It is the capital of the Zanzibar Urban West Region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stone Town is known for its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences, which is reflected in its architecture, culture, and cuisine.

The town gets its name from the many buildings made of coral stone that line its narrow streets. Exploring Stone Town is like stepping back in time, with its winding alleys, intricately carved wooden doors, and bustling markets. Some popular attractions in Stone Town include:

1. Forodhani Gardens: A waterfront park famous for its evening food market, where you can try local delicacies like Zanzibari pizza and seafood skewers.
2. The Old Fort: A 17th-century fort originally built by the Portuguese and later used as a prison and garrison. Today, it houses a cultural centre and hosts events such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival.
3. The House of Wonders: A grand palace built in the late 19th century, which served as the Sultan’s residence. It is now a museum showcasing Zanzibar’s history and culture.
4. The Anglican Cathedral: Also known as the Christ Church Cathedral, it stands on the site of the old slave market. The cathedral has a museum and a memorial dedicated to the victims of the slave trade.
5. The Forodhani Market: Located near the waterfront, this market offers a wide range of local produce, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, is a small island located just off the coast of Stone Town. It is a popular destination for day trips and offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkelling and swimming. The island gets its name from the former prison complex that was built to house rebellious slaves but was never used for that purpose. Today, Changuu Island is a nature reserve and home to a population of giant Aldabra tortoises, which were brought to the island from the Seychelles.

Visitors to Changuu Island can take a boat or a dhow (traditional sailing vessel) from Stone Town to reach the island. Once there, you can relax on the beach, explore the lush vegetation, and interact with the friendly tortoises. Snorkeling and diving trips are also available, allowing you to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island.

Overall, a visit to Stone Town and Changuu Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travellers visiting Zanzibar.

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you direct to Stone Town which is the capital city of Zanzibar.