Prison island Tour
- Category: blog
- Published: Saturday, 25 January 2020 14:36
- Written by Super User
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Changuu Island also known as Prison Island lies about 30 min by boat from Stone Town. The island was formerly owned by an Arab and saw use for confinement of refractory slaves but no prisoners were ever housed here instead the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever epidemics. It was bought by General Lloyd Mathews and the jail (goal) which still stands was built in 1893 and hence the name “PRISON ISLAND”
In 1919 the British governor of Seychelles sent a gift in form of four Aldabra giant tortoises to Changuu. Presently this species is considered vulnerable and has been placed on the IUCN Red List. There is a dedicated foundation on the island which looks after the tortoises' welfare.
Hop aboard private or shared motorized on the shore of Stone Town and set sail to the historic Prison Island named after the prison built to condemn Zanzibari Citizens to the isolation of the island.
The island is now home to the infamous prison ruins and a tortoise sanctuary, famous for its giant land tortoises.
Observe these intriguing creatures leisurely shuffling through the trees, whilst adventurous children can enjoy a slow ride on their powerful backs.
In addition to that, our three to four hours visit to island give you plenty of time to explore one of the hiking trails, snorkel in search of colorful tropical fishes darting through the reef or soak up some sun on the powder white beach. Book the tour with us.