A short trip to Changuu Island, better known as Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises some over a century old, alongside the ruins of a former quarantine station and unbuilt colonial-era prison.
2 DaysFrom $650Private SafariLocal Expert Guide
Safari Overview
2-Day Prison Island Giant Tortoise Safari Overview
2-Day Prison Island Giant Tortoise Safari is a carefully designed Tanzania safari experience for travelers who want wildlife, scenery, comfort and local guidance. The itinerary can be customized according to your travel dates, accommodation style, budget and special interests.
A short trip to Changuu Island, better known as Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises some over a century old, alongside the ruins of a former quarantine station and unbuilt colonial-era prison.
Despite its name, Changuu Island was never used as a working prison - it was built for that purpose but instead became a quarantine station for yellow fever cases. Today it's best known for a protected population of giant Aldabra tortoises, some more than 100 years old, brought originally from Seychelles.
Guide For 2-Day Prison Island Giant Tortoise Safari
2-Day Prison Island Giant Tortoise Safari is designed for travelers who want a reliable Tanzania safari with strong wildlife viewing, smooth logistics and professional local guiding. This page explains the route, highlights, best travel seasons, expected safari style, planning advice and how to request a custom quote.
The strongest Tanzania safari itineraries combine the right route, realistic driving times, experienced guiding and enough flexibility for wildlife surprises. With Serengeti Safari, this tour can be adjusted for couples, families, honeymooners, photographers, private groups and first-time safari travelers.
This is a simple day-by-day summary with enough detail to understand the route, main activities and overnight experience without making the page too heavy.
Day1
Day 1 Safari Experience
Arrive Zanzibar, afternoon boat trip to Changuu Island to see the giant tortoises and explore the former quarantine station ruins, snorkeling stop on the return.
Comfortable safari lodge or camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner where applicable Game Drive Sightseeing Safari Experience
Day2
Morning at leisure in Zanzibar, then departure.
Morning at leisure in Zanzibar, then departure.
Comfortable safari lodge or camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner where applicable Game Drive Sightseeing Safari Experience
Price & Planning
Safari Price Guide
The final safari price depends on your travel season, accommodation level, number of travelers, park fees, transport style and any extra activities requested.
From $650
2 Days
Send your travel dates and number of travelers so we can prepare a personalized safari quote with available lodge options.
Some of the giant Aldabra tortoises on the island are documented as over 100 years old.
Was Prison Island actually a prison?
It was originally built to hold prisoners but was instead used as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases, and never functioned as its name suggests.
Is this a good half-day add-on?
Yes, it's commonly combined with a Stone Town visit or as a short excursion during a longer Zanzibar beach stay.
