Despite its intriguing name, the island is not a prison but rather holds historical significance. The main attraction on the island is a historic prison that was built in the late 19th century but was never actually used as a penitentiary. Instead, it served as a quarantine station during the era of the slave trade and later as a hospital.

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a popular tourist destination in Zanzibar, Tanzania. It is located approximately 5.6 kilometers northwest of Stone Town, the capital city of Zanzibar. The island has a fascinating history and offers various attractions for visitors. Originally, the island was intended to serve as a prison for rebellious slaves, but it was never used for that purpose. Instead, it became a quarantine station for ships arriving in Zanzibar with passengers suspected of having contagious diseases, particularly cholera.

Today, Prison Island is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a boat trip from Stone Town to the island to explore its attractions. One of the main attractions on Prison Island is a population of giant Aldabra tortoises, which were brought to the island from Seychelles in the late 19th century. These gentle creatures have become a symbol of the island and are a popular attraction for visitors. In addition to the tortoises, visitors can also enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the surrounding waters, which are rich in marine life.

The island offers beautiful coral reefs that provide excellent opportunities for underwater exploration. Prison Island also has a small beach where visitors can relax and sunbathe. There is a restaurant on the island where you can enjoy meals and refreshments. To visit Prison Island, you can arrange a boat trip from Stone Town or book with us. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes by boat, depending on the weather conditions.