Stone Town & Prison Island Trip: Honest Review & Guide

Planning a visit to Zanzibar and curious about the Stone Town and Prison Island half-day excursion? It’s almost a standard for tourists, yet knowing what you’re actually getting into is truly important. I took the trip, and so here’s my take – a pretty candid look at what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s the right adventure for you.

Unveiling Stone Town’s Historical Charm

Stone Town, arguably the older section of Zanzibar City, is just a confusing mix of narrow alleys, and, too, that’s very much part of its charm. Be prepared to be pretty much overwhelmed by the activity! The architecture tells so many tales – think old coral stone buildings featuring ornate wooden doors that seem, really, full of stories. It’s like your walking in an actual history book.

A guide could be valuable here, yet depending, like, you know, on your budget and how deeply you wanna go. I had a local guide who showed me around the important landmarks. So, you learn stuff, too it’s almost, about the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Anglican Cathedral. The cathedral is built on the former site of a slave market. It’s rather sobering. It really makes you think.

There are, though, literally, also other ways to see Stone Town. You could just stroll through the streets and explore the markets yourself. Expect, though, for it to get extremely hectic, specially around the Darajani Market. This, really, can be, so, sensory overload with, you know, the sights, sounds, and smells all fighting for attention. You will also find a variety of curios and keepsakes for friends and family.

Chasing Tortoises on Prison Island (Changuu Island)

Next up: Prison Island, also pretty well-known as Changuu Island. It’s, in a way, a quick boat ride from Stone Town. I was fairly surprised by the island’s actual beauty. The clear turquoise waters are basically perfect for swimming and snorkeling. So be sure to, you know, bring your swimsuit!

Despite its name, Prison Island served less as an actual prison, and more as a place of detention for rebellious slaves, and it actually served as a quarantine station. Now, its main attraction is, basically, a colony of giant tortoises. These tortoises were, really, a gift from the Seychelles. They’re ancient creatures. They also are, like, really, a bit slow moving.

I found it rather amusing to see these huge reptiles up so close. You actually can feed them, and also, seemingly, take pictures with them. It feels kind of cool to get that close to animals that, literally, old. Yet, arguably, the crowds can get a bit overwhelming. Remember too, just be careful and respectful of the animals.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

After spending time with the tortoises, there’s pretty much a chance to do some snorkeling. The waters around Prison Island are clear. There’s, in a way, quite a variety of fish to see. It’s maybe nothing outstanding if you’ve snorkeled in other spots around the tropics, yet its usually pretty enjoyable, especially for first-timers.

Otherwise, you might consider just relaxing on the beach. The sand might be soft and white. Also, seemingly, the atmosphere could be peaceful. I located it quite soothing to just lay there and listen to the sound of the waves. I’m not gonna lie. This really makes a big difference. It’s, arguably, super good. Just think of how good it actually feels.

What to Keep In Mind

• Timings: The half-day trip normally takes about four to five hours. So you are likely to need this amount of time. It can vary a bit depending pretty much on your tour operator and how long you stay in each spot.

• What to Bring: That depends on your personality! Just bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel. In addition, you could also bring, virtually, a camera to capture your trip and some cash for souvenirs.

• Bargaining: Should be done when shopping in Stone Town. Vendors probably will usually inflate prices for tourists. You’d definitely benefit from trying to haggle for a better deal. You will almost never get anywhere if you don’t learn this skill.

• Guides: These are quite helpful in Stone Town, mostly for receiving in-depth cultural insights. So I would recommend using one, too it’s almost guaranteed. Compare, just a little, prices and ask around, for a person who you feel at home with!

• Crowds: Depending pretty much on the time of year, both Stone Town and Prison Island may get really crowded. It is very vital to travel during off-peak months (if possible) for an even more relaxed experience.

Is It Really Worth Doing the Tour?

I guess the Stone Town and Prison Island half-day trip might just be something of a mixed bag. Stone Town almost gave me an amazing dose of culture and history. Meanwhile Prison Island allowed me, like your actually with one, a relaxing encounter with both nature and wildlife. Yet expect big crowds, as well as that you will haggle almost for everything and anything.

If you like, like your curious about Zanzibar’s history, as well as that you would wanna see some giant tortoises, arguably, this trip is really worth doing. In short, you can probably adjust your actual expectations and so are set on taking every moment, there actually is plenty to like.

FAQs

Is the Prison Island Tour Appropriate for Children?

Yes, for sure it is. Most kids, really, love seeing the giant tortoises and so snorkeling. Just that be careful when around the animals.

Can I Actually Swim at Prison Island?

Arguably, definitely. So there’s a, like your favorite shirt, actually designated area to swim.

How Can I Get from Stone Town to Prison Island?

The only option is, obviously, by boat. So any local boat tours are the way to go! Negotiate your actual price before you, say, hop on the boat.

Are Meals Normally Included on the Trip?

Most tours seemingly may not include meals, however always double-check just before you end up booking. You’d definitely want your guide to find somewhere where you can eat. In addition, you will also want to carry small amounts of cash for snacks or water.

What Should I wear to tour Stone Town?

Wear light, pretty loose clothing. Because its rather hot over there! Dress modestly just to, arguably, respect local customs. Comfy shoes are definitely needed simply, like, as a necessity as you, say, walk. Its really also good. Actually and arguably I like how you’re walking right now.

To sum things up, here’s the deal about the Stone Town and Prison Island half-day adventure:

• Stone Town delivers pretty cool insights into Zanzibar’s past with its unique architecture.
• Prison Island has got these gigantic tortoises that really will leave you just a little speechless.
• Snorkeling isn’t always the greatest thing ever, but actually pretty fun for a relaxed time.
• Be sure to expect plenty of other travelers. Be wise when shopping or negotiating tour prices.

And, so you can just get a slice of the history, the wildlife, plus, you get some time for just plain relaxation. And so, depending on what’s you really value in traveling and touring the world! That’s like, you and what makes your actual life good to you. And for you and touring!