Visit Changu or prison island in Zanzibar

Changuu Island (also known as Kibandiko, Prison or Quarantine Island) is a small island 5.6 km northwest of Stone Town, Unguja Zanzibar. The island is around 800m long and 230m wide at its broadest point. The island was used as a prison for rebellious slaves in the 1860s and also functioned as a coral mine.

Now it is more commonly known as the home of Zanzibar’s Giant Aldabran Tortoise colony, some of which are over a hundred years old! This endangered species came to Zanzibar as a gift from the government of Seychelles.

What to do

• Approximately one kilometre long and a ¼ kilometres wide the island offers some of the most pristine swimming and snorkelling conditions in crystal clear waters.
• A hundred-year-old Giant tortoise is one of the key attractions on this island and local guides will give you a guide to see this giant tortoise.
• you can do a spot of snorkelling. (Equipment hire not included). A relaxing walk around the island, past peacocks and mango groves takes about half an hour.
• Walks to the interior of the forest where you will see a wide variety of birds, colourful peacocks, bats, and beautiful butterflies. Keep your eyes peeled too for the shy and elusive Duikers – an unusual tiny antelope species.