Zanzibar Prison Island Tour Review: Is it Worth it?

So, are you thinking about taking a trip to Prison Island in Zanzibar? You know, that little island that is also known as Changuu Island? Well, it might be something you want to think about a bit. A guided tour might just be the thing you’re looking for. I mean, a lot of people seem to go, and it’s supposed to be quite interesting. But is it actually worth your hard-earned cash and precious vacation time? We’re gonna break it all down in this review, just for you.

A Quick Look at Prison Island’s Past

A little bit of the backstory. This island’s past is, too it’s almost a crazy mix of, you know, dark history and, seemingly, total serenity. Back in the 1860s, the island was picked as, apparently, a potential prison site by the Brits. But, actually, it never really served its primary purpose, right? Instead, in the 1920s, it became a quarantine station. Sort of like a place to isolate people who were sick with yellow fever. Isn’t that something?

But the real draw nowadays? That would be the giant Aldabra tortoises. Back then, they were a gift from the British governor of Seychelles. And it really feels like they have well and truly taken over the island. You can see these massive creatures just wandering around, totally unbothered by all the tourists clicking away with their cameras. The story, very, very, much is that this place holds so many layers, which is something that really can draw you in.

What’s Included on a Guided Tour?

What do you actually get if you sign up for one of these guided tours? Mostly, is that it comes down to a few things. First off, there is your boat trip, too it’s almost certainly included, and getting to Prison Island involves a boat ride. You know, that means fresh air and great views of the Zanzibar coast, alright? The journey itself could be quite pleasant, arguably.

And then, apparently, there is the tour guide. Very, very, much having a local guide means you actually get some insights into the island’s history. They will, often, tell you about the prison building. Not to mention all the tortoises that are here. So, in a way, these guides aren’t just telling you what you’re seeing, right? But they will also be offering context, I think.

Getting Up Close with Giant Tortoises

Here’s the deal: interacting with these gentle giants is, definitely, a highlight for most people. You can, in fact, feed them (if you have something they are allowed to eat), too it’s almost likely, and you will be able to get close enough to take photos. Seeing them lumber around is actually something, isn’t it?

That said, is that responsible tourism is critical. Please, make sure you listen to your guide, OK? It is that they’ll tell you what’s safe for the animals and what isn’t, so listen. Basically, is that these tortoises have been around for a very long time. Right? You don’t want to be the person who ruins their day or, arguably, their habitat.

Snorkeling Adventures

And now, let’s get to the snorkeling bit, alright? Very, very, much depending on the tour you pick, sometimes there is a chance to do some snorkeling near Prison Island. Now, this, it really means you could see some awesome coral reefs and lots of colorful fish, in some respects, right?

But what’s really crucial is, that you need to double-check that this is something that is included. Very, very, much making sure all the equipment is provided and in decent shape is quite key, isn’t it? You might like your own gear instead? Then it is arguably a good idea to bring that, in that case.

What About the Crowds and Best Time to Visit?

Crowds. Right? That could be a biggie, too it’s almost definitely important. This island is a really popular spot, seemingly. Which could mean it will, possibly, get pretty crowded, specifically during peak tourist season. But that does not mean the whole things is ruined or anything. The experience is often good regardless.

Now, when is the right time to go? Well, often the dry season, from June to October, is actually the best time, since the weather can be great. Going early in the morning will often let you beat some of those crowds, or sometimes the opposite is a good approach as well. Isn’t that the case? But you probably have to wake up at an ungodly hour if you opt to head out really early.

Things to Keep In Mind

Very, very, much knowing what to bring is important, actually, for your Prison Island visit, because comfort matters a bit. You are probably gonna want sunscreen. Especially if you are planning on doing some snorkeling or just hanging out on the boat. Right? Is that important to bring?

• Sunscreen (reef-safe is ideal for the environment!)
• A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to snorkel or swim)
• Cash for souvenirs or extra snacks

Bringing some cash, in this case, could come in handy too, alright? There could be chances to buy some souvenirs. Or sometimes you might get a bit peckish. So, being prepared is certainly key.

Is the Guided Tour Worth the Money?

Right. The biggie. The million-dollar question. You want to know if the tour is, truly, a good deal or if it’s actually an experience to miss? The truth is, it depends on what you expect to get out of the trip, often. Basically, are you just wanting to see some big tortoises and grab a quick pic? Then maybe you could skip the whole guided thing, right? And you can just go do your own thing.

But that is to say, that a tour often gives you so much more. The history lessons are great, aren’t they? And very, very, much having someone else organizing the logistics can really take a load off. Particularly, arguably, if you are a slightly anxious traveler. Right? Weigh up the pros and cons to decide if that value is there. A lot of visitors find the tour pretty memorable, anyway.

• Historical context
• Getting up close to the tortoises
• A relaxed day with no planning needed from your side

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you visit Prison Island without a tour?

You can visit the island independently by hiring a boat, if you want to do so. But remember that you might, actually, miss some pretty vital historical insights and local knowledge. That’s why going with an experienced guide might make the whole experience a bit richer, just a bit. That can really make a difference, right?

Are the tortoises on Prison Island treated well?

The tortoises wellbeing is really important to any responsible tour company, just saying. Make sure you actually choose a tour operator, it is that they really emphasize responsible interactions with the animals. It means respecting their space. So listen to their guidelines, alright? That is actually critical for their continuing wellbeing.

What should I wear for the Prison Island tour?

Wearing light, airy clothes is probably your best bet because the weather in Zanzibar is very warm. Comfy shoes are also going to be really useful for walking around the island. And bringing your swimwear is probably a shout if you intend on going for a swim or doing a bit of snorkeling, right?

Is Prison Island suitable for children?

Most children find the visit a wonderful experience, yeah. Interacting with the tortoises, could be a real hit. And of course, right? The boat trip can add to the feeling of excitement and discovery. But what is important? It means you will need to supervise your kids really carefully, too it’s almost important to ensure their safety and respect for the animals, just always, so to speak, right?

Here are some things to note about the experience

• Some areas are not stroller-friendly, so you need to make arrangements, or, you might want to carry younger kids, okay?
• Young children and the elderly can both be accommodated so there is fun for all the family.
• Always book with an accredited agent.

Ultimately, going to Prison Island could be an awesome way to spend a day out in Zanzibar. Is that worth a place on your itinerary? Perhaps it depends on whether getting up close to huge tortoises and learning a bit about local history appeals to you. As experiences go, anyway, is that it’s a trip that combines both leisure and a dash of learning. Now who could not want that?

Key Takeaways:

• Prison Island has a captivating history blending a would-be prison with a quarantine station.
• Giant Aldabra tortoises are the star attraction, which arguably is so captivating.
• Guided tours offer rich context and, usually, snorkeling options, actually.
• Responsible tourism ensures the wellbeing of the tortoises so listen and respect the wildlife.