Zanzibar: Prison Island & Stone Town Private Tour + Pickup PRIVATE TOUR: with a designated meeting point

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ID: GYG1135152-1746099
Category:
Country: Tanzania

Duration: 04:30 hours


Description

Discover the rich history and unique character of Zanzibar on a private tour of Prison Island & Stone Town. Visit the ancient Prison Island, see giant Aldabra tortoises, and lastly historic Stone Town
Shine your Zanzibar vacation by visiting these 2 top attractions, a day full of experience, history and the current life of Zanzibar locals.

PRISON ISLAND TOUR:
As you arrive in Stone Town, begin with a 15-minutes boat ride offshore straight to the illustrious historic prison of Changuu Island, known commonly as PRISON ISLAND. Cruise across the crystal-clear turquoise water to go discover a peaceful island filled with history, nature, and some wildlife. Explore the ancient prison ruins which were erected by the British colony of Zanzibar.

Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the calm beauty of the Indian Ocean and lush scenery. Our local expert tour guide of your language, will share stories of the island's fascinating past. Once a place intended to house prisoners, but then ended up to be used as a quarantine station for the people who wanted to enter & explore Zanzibar, prevention from Yellow fever, & now a tranquil nature escape.

Then, visit a sanctuary for Aldabra tortoises, the main attraction — one of the largest tortoises in the world, some over 100 years old weighing up to 200 kilos, also known to be one of the longest-living creatures in the world. Learn about these giant land tortoises that were brought to Zanzibar from Seychelles. And luckily, one of the 4 original tortoises that were sent as gift from the Seychelles’s governor to Sultan of Zanzibar, is still alive with 201 years old.

Also spot peacocks with large and brilliant feathers which have made them the symbol of beauty, royalty, and good fortune for Prison Island. Interact with these amazing creatures and take pictures.

Take some time to relax on the beach, swim in the warm waters, and capture the scenic views.

STONE TOWN TOUR:
A 15-minutes boat ride back to Stone Town from Prison Island begins to go learn more about the history of Zanzibar and explore the unique character of Stone Town on a private guided tour.

In 2000, Stone Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical richness. The town's 19th-century architecture reflects the diverse influences of Swahili culture, with Arab, Indian, & European elements.
Start your Stone Town tour by exploring the Forodhani Garden, House of Wonder (currently under renovation), Arab Sultan's Palace, Old Fort, and the house where Freddie Mercury was born. Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town to the City Market where locals sell fresh fruits & utensils.

Observe the vibrant hustle and bustle of the fresh fish auction while learning about the history of everything you see around you. A few minutes' walk away from the City Market, explore the famous Old Slave Market site and the Anglican Church. See the slave monuments and small slave chambers in which slaves were kept starving while waiting to be sold to new owners.

This tour is a blend of wildlife, history, and relaxation - perfect for couples, families & solo travellers alike.

Get dropped off back at your hotel at the end of the tour.

Highlights

  • Discover the rich history of Zanzibar on a private tour of Stone Town & Prison
  • Explore the ancient Prison Ruins on Changuu (Prison) Island
  • Visit a Former Slave Market site, Freddie Mercury House & other historical sites
  • See Aldabra tortoises, one of the oldest and largest tortoises in the world
  • Enjoy a relaxing boat ride across the crystal-clear water

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Bring at least a towel for your own use to avoid getting wet due to splashing water during the boat ride, just in case the ocean is wavy, not often.
Sunscreen is recommended due to sun exposure.
Meeting point: OLD FORT, Mizingani Road, Stone Town. The real name of our tour guide will be shared to you for easy recognition. Meet our tour guide at the meeting point for at least 5 minutes before the agreed starting time of the activity.
INCLUDED
  • Private Hotel pickup & drop-off (if the option is selected)
  • Private Boat ride to and from Prison Island
  • Entry tickets to Prison Island
  • Prison Island & Stone Town Private guided tours
  • Private local tour guide of your language
  • Visit & interact the giant Aldabra Tortoise sanctuary
  • Entry tickets to Former Slave Market Historical site
  • Bottles of drinking water
  • Marine conservation fees
NOT INCLUDED
  • Meals
  • Personal expenses

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.