Overview
A Historical Haven with Giant Tortoises and Crystal Seas
Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island or Quarantine Island, is a small but historically rich island located just 5.6 km northwest of Stone Town, Zanzibar. This coral island, roughly 800 meters long and 230 meters wide, offers a fascinating blend of colonial history, wildlife conservation, and tropical escape. Originally uninhabited, Changuu played various roles—from a slave prison to a British quarantine station, and now a unique tourist destination. The island is best known today for its population of Aldabra giant tortoises and its crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
Island Attractions
Changuu Island offers a mix of historical landmarks, wildlife encounters, and serene coastal experiences:
- Giant Aldabra Tortoises – Home to one of the world’s oldest tortoise species, many over 100 years old. Visitors can interact with and feed them.
- Historical Prison Ruins – Explore the 19th-century prison buildings that were never used for inmates but repurposed for quarantine.
- Quarantine Hospital – Once used to monitor Yellow Fever and other diseases, now a key part of the island's medical heritage.
- European Bungalow – A colonial-era building that served leisure-seeking visitors.
- Natural Swimming Pits – Old coral mining pits now used as natural pools.
- Scenic Views & Beaches – Relax on pristine beaches with views of the turquoise Indian Ocean.
When to Visit
Changuu Island can be visited year-round, but the best times are during the dry seasons:
- June to October – Dry, sunny days with pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.
- December to February – Another dry season with warm temperatures, ideal for snorkeling and tortoise spotting.
- Avoid the peak of the rainy seasons in April-May and November, when boat transfers may be less frequent due to weather.
Excursion and Activities in Changuu Island
Visitors to Changuu Island can enjoy a variety of enriching and eco-friendly activities:
- Tortoise Feeding – Interact with and learn about Aldabra giant tortoises, including juveniles and hatchlings.
- Historical Walking Tours – Guided visits through the old prison, quarantine hospital, and colonial-era buildings.
- Snorkeling – Explore the clear waters and vibrant marine life around the island.
- Beach Picnics – Spend a relaxing afternoon sunbathing or enjoying a packed lunch by the sea.
Where to stay
While there are no overnight lodges on Changuu Island itself, it is best visited as a half- or full-day trip from Stone Town. Visitors can find a wide range of accommodations in Stone Town, from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses.
How to get around
The island is small and easy to explore on foot. Nature trails and pathways connect the tortoise sanctuary, historical sites, and beach areas.
Getting there
By Boat –
- Changuu Island is accessible via a 20–30 minute boat ride from Stone Town. Local tour operators and hotels often organise daily excursions.
By Air –
- Fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar and take a short drive to Stone Town’s harbor for boat transfers.
NOTE:- Changuu Island is a remarkable mix of history, nature, and conservation. A visit here offers not only stunning ocean views and wildlife encounters but also a deeper understanding of Zanzibar’s past and ongoing preservation efforts.
