Zanzibar: Prison Island and Stone Town tour
ID: GYG872327-1373758
Category:
Country: Tanzania
Duration:
06:30 hours
Description
Discover the history of Zanzibar on a guided tour of Prison Island and Stone Town. Visit the ruins of the prison on Prison Island, see the giant tortoises, and explore the narrow streets of Stone Town
Explore the history of Zanzibar on a guided tour of Stone Town and Prison Island. Visit the former slave market, see the Anglican Cathedral, and explore the narrow streets of Stone Town. Then, take a boat to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises.
From Stone Town, take a small wooden boat or dhow to Prison Island. Learn about the island's history as a prison for resistant slaves and as a quarantine hospital for traders. Visit the ruins of the prison, which now serve as bars and restaurants.
See the endangered species of giant land tortoises that were brought from Mauritius in the 1820s. After the tour, swim, sunbathe, and snorkel, or relax on the white sandy beaches before taking the boat back to Stone Town.
Next, take a guided walk through Stone Town. Start at the public market, which was built in 1904. See the spices market, fish market, and the fruit and vegetable market.
Visit the former slave market, which is now the Anglican Cathedral. Learn about the abolition of the slave market in 1873 by Dr. David Livingstone. See the monuments of slaves, slave chambers, and other remnants of the East African slave trade.
Explore the narrow streets of Stone Town, and see the Arab and Indian architecture and curved wooden doors. Pass by the Tipu Tipu house, the African house, and the old fort built by Arabs to protect against the Portuguese.
Visit the Forodhani garden and the museums.
Highlights
- Visit the ruins of the prison on Prison Island, which now serves as bars
- See the giant tortoises that were brought to the island from Mauritius
- Explore the narrow streets of Stone Town and see the Arab and Indian architecture
- Learn about the history of the island and its role in the slave trade
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect from the sun
Carry water to stay hydrated
Be prepared for a moderate amount of walking
Respect local customs and traditions
Photography is allowed, but ask for permission before taking photos of people
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.