Zanzibar: Half-Day Prison Island, Tortoises and Spices Tour
- Free cancellation up to 1 day before
- Instant confirmation
- Hotel pickup
- Guided tour in English, German, French, Spanish, and Swahili
About this experience
Come and experience a unique place called Prison Island and learn more about Zanzibar’s history. Prison Island gets its name from the prison built to condemn Zanzibari citizens to be isolated from the island.
The prison was previously owned by an Arab to house his rebellious slaves, the prison was never actually used, and the island is now home to a tortoise sanctuary and a hotel. Prison Island is 20 minutes away from Stone Town by boat and has spectacular coral reefs for you to enjoy.
Giant tortoises shuffle through the trees, with the infinite patience that old age brings. Originally thought to be from the Comoros Islands and Seychelles, some of these tortoises are thought to be over 100 years old. After the trip to the tortoise sanctuary, you´re left to explore the island.
If you´re feeling active, you can follow one of the hiking trails, snorkel in the crystal clear waters in search of colorful tropical fish darting through the reef or soak up some sun on the white beach. Your next spot will be the Spice Farm where you will discover why Zanzibar is called the Spice Island.
You will learn all about the fruits, plants and spices planted on the island. Furthermore, you will taste a delicious meal made of these spices.
After this memorable day, our driver will drop you off back at your hotel.
Kindly note that the guide can flexibly adjust the route throughout the excursion.
Next available dates
What’s included
- Hotel pickup
- Hotel drop-off
- Experienced Driver
- Entry ticket to Prison Island (only if option selected)
- Spice farm guided tour
- Entry ticket spice farm
- Guide in Prison
- Guide in Spice farm
Not included
- Tips (optional)
- Lunch
- Prison island Tourism Tax 10 USD per person
- Prison island tax 22 USD per person
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours and 30 minutes
- How you meet
- Hotel pickup
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Cancellation policy
- Free cancellation up to 1 day before
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Guide
- Guided tour in English, German, French, Spanish, and Swahili
- Start times
- 08:00 · 13:30 · 14:30
Know before you go
- Public transportation nearby
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infant seats unavailable
- Comfortable Shoes
- Sunscreen
- Daypack
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 day before the experience starts.
- 1 day or more before: full refund
- Less than 1 day before: no refund
Traveler reviews
Be among the first to review this experience.
Write a review- Provided by
- Beach & Safari Holidays
Frequently asked questions
How long does this experience last?
It lasts 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Can I cancel this booking?
Free cancellation up to 1 day before the experience starts. 1 day or more before: full refund · Less than 1 day before: no refund
Is this experience guided, and in what language?
Guided tour in English, German, French, Spanish, and Swahili
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes — hotel pickup is included.
Still have a question?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we can help with dates, group bookings and anything else before you book.
From AED 261 per person (4–6 travelers)Free cancellation








