30 Minutes: Transfer to Spice Plantations

You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the excursion spot. Changuu Island also known as Prison Island lies about 30 min by boat from Stone Town. The island was formerly owned by an Arab and saw use for confinement of refractory slaves but no prisoners were ever housed here instead the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever epidemics. It was bought by General Lloyd Mathews and the jail (goal) which still stands was built in 1893 and hence the name “PRISON ISLAND”. In 1919 the British governor of Seychelles sent a gift in form of four Aldabra giant tortoises to Changuu. Presently this species is considered vulnerable and has been placed on the IUCN Red List. There is a dedicated foundation on the island which looks after the tortoises' welfare.

3-4 Hours: Prison Island Tour

The Aldabra Giant Tortoise sanctuary is a major tourist lure and the oldest tortoise is 192 years old. Before you will have a delightful swimming, and the wonderful snorkeling, you can take a memorable pictures with the giant tortoises. The turtles are not indigenous and are magisterial creatures, weighing in at an average of 200 kg some are as old as  over 100 years (4 turtles are 150 years). You can feed them at a fee paid at the Island, but watch out for their snapping beaks. With our trained guide, he will start by explaining how are they that keen on particular plants and what general they dislike.

With its colorful schools of fish and outstanding coral reefs Prison island has been known as one among the best destinations for snorkeling trips, tropical fish eg black snapper, orange lined triggerfish, spotted garfish, barracuda, longfin bannerfish, emperor angelfish, rabbitfish, clown triggerfish, blue stripe. It is by no means the most extensive or varied snorkelling spot off the coast of Zanzibar, but being so close to Stone Town and so easily accessible makes it ideal for those who want to see ‘under the sea’ a little while on a city break.

You will be able to swim around, the picturesque and turquoise waters can create the true color of the paradise, it is safe for all ages and with its white sandy beach many admire how beach-walk is lovely here. The island’s restaurant, Matthews, is good and well-renowned. This is especially so considering the restaurant’s charming atmosphere and good sea view.

30 Minutes: Transfer back to Stone Town

You will then be dropped off at the hotel in Stone Town after the excursion.