Prison Island

Giant tortoises shuffle between trees

Come and experience a unique place called Prison Island. And learn more about the history of Zanzibar. The island was used as a prison for rebellious slaves in 1860. The island also functioned as a coral mine, coral used as building material. The British prime minister of Zanzibar, Lloyd Mathews, bought the island in 1893 and built a prison complex there. No prisoners were ever housed on the island and instead it became a quarantine station for yellow fever cases. The island now houses a turtle sanctuary and a hotel.

Prison Island is a 20-minute boat ride from Stone Town and has spectacular coral reefs. Giant tortoises shuffle between the trees, with the infinite patience that age brings. In 1919, the British governor donated Aldabra’s first giant turtles, from the Seychelles. This makes the oldest turtles on the island more than 100 years old.

After visiting the turtle sanctuary, you can explore the island. If you’re feeling active, you can follow one of the hiking trails, snorkel in the crystal clear waters in search of colorful tropical fish swimming through the reef or enjoy the sun on the white beach.