About this experience
Explore the rich culture and history of Zanzibar with a visit to Prison island by dhow. See the large tortoises that inhabit the island, and enjoy the opportunity to snorkel off the coast. Admire the stunning landscape as you swim with colorful fish. After relax in small sand island and feel like you are discoverer. Day well spend.
Stone Town is a city of prominent historical and artistic importance in East Africa. Its architecture, mostly dating back to the 19th century, reflects the diverse influences underlying the Swahili culture, giving a unique mixture of Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements. For this reason, the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Bottled water
- Entrance fee
- Lunch
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Private boat
Not included
- Minai conservation fee
Itinerary and highlights
The tour will start in one of the most important parts of the Old slave Market site (Anglican Church) through the narrow streets. The next stop will be at City Market. Here you can see the biggest market on both islands. Locals buy and sell anything here. Freshest fruits are here. People also have fish action where they bid price on sea creatures.
Afterward, you will cover main objects of Stown Town as The Palace Museum, House of wonder, which is the largest and tallest building in Stown Town a.k.a. Bait -al- ajab, an Old fort, Tippu Tip and of course most famous Freddie’s Mercury’s House. Also a visit to Peace memorial and Natural History Museum and many more.
Your Zanzibar adventure begins with a visit to Prison Island, purchased in 1893 by Lloyd Mathews, the British First Minister of Zanzibar at the time. Mathews constructed a prison complex on the island which is still visible today, however no prisoners were ever housed on the island and instead it became a quarantine station for yellow fever sufferers.
On the island, spend some time exploring the area and discover the collection of over 50 tortoises that live here, some of which are more than 100 years old. Learn about why the tortoises call the island their home, as well as taking photos and feeding them too. The island is also home to peacocks and small antelope too.
Meeting and pickup information
- In Front Of Old Fort In Stone Town At 9:00AM
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Zanzibar Local Experience
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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