Prison Island

Located a few kilometres off the coast of Zanzibar City, Prison Island (Changuu Island) is one of the most fascinating historic sites in the archipelago. Despite its name, it never truly served as a conventional prison. In the late 19th century, it was primarily used as a quarantine station for those arriving with contagious diseases. Today it is a must-visit tourist attraction where you can explore the stone ruins, swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and meet the famous giant Seychelles tortoises — a gift to the third Sultan of Zanzibar after the abolition of slavery.