Prison Island (Changuu)
Stone Town, Tanzania
About
A short boat ride offshore, home to a colony of giant Aldabra tortoises and the ruins of a never-used prison.
Reached by private boat, this island once housed a prison & is home to many giant tortoises.
Where it is
Getting to & around Stone Town
From other cities: From Dar es Salaam, Azam Marine fast ferries reach Zanzibar in about two hours, or 15-20 minute flights run on Coastal, Auric and ZanAir; domestic flights also link Arusha and the northern safari circuit.
Getting around: Stone Town's alleys are car-free and best explored on foot; beyond the old town, bajaji (tuk-tuks), taxis and Bolt cars operate, while shared daladalas run to the beaches and villages.
Full getting-there guideMore in Stone Town
Museum
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)
The 17th-century Omani stone fortress on the seafront, now a cultural venue hosting markets, performances and festivals.
Museum
House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)
The landmark palace of the sultans that once dazzled with East Africa's first electricity and elevator, under long-term restoration.
Museum
Former Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral
A moving memorial and museum built over the old market, where the cathedral altar marks the site of the whipping post.
Darajani Market
Stone Town's chaotic central bazaar where fish, fruit, spices and everyday island life spill through narrow lanes.