Changuu Island Prison Island Hotels

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Giant Tortoise Sanctuary: Visit the unique sanctuary housing giant Aldabra tortoises, a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Rich History: Explore the island’s historical ruins, including the old prison that narrates fascinating tales of the past.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful, pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Snorkelling Adventures: Experience vibrant marine life through exhilarating snorkelling opportunities in the surrounding waters.
• Proximity to Stone Town: Enjoy easy access to the historical charm and cultural experiences of nearby Stone Town.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Prison Island offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming guesthouses to comfortable hotels, ideal for families and business travellers alike. Whether you seek a serene beach vacation or a convenient base for group bookings, you’ll find suitable options, including the Mizingani Seafront Hotel and Zanzibar Serena Hotel. Expect to enjoy a relaxing stay with stunning views and excellent amenities, tailored to enhance your experience on this picturesque island.

• Tembo House Hotel: Tembo House Hotel is a charming 4-star accommodation, rated 8.6 out of 10, ideal for families seeking a beach-themed getaway. Located 5km from Prison Island, this hotel boasts direct access to a beautiful beach and features a nearby natural hot spring, providing guests with a truly relaxing experience. Families will appreciate the range of child-friendly amenities including a shared playground, games, window guards, a children’s pool, and an arcade game room, ensuring younger guests are entertained throughout their stay.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: With an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Turaco Spice Tree offers a delightful 4-star experience for families wishing to enjoy a beachside retreat, situated 5km from Prison Island. The hotel provides direct beach access and a selection of amenities designed for children. Parents can take advantage of options such as in-room babysitting services (for a fee), window guards, and a first aid kit, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for families. The hotel’s vibrant decor and warm atmosphere enhance the overall experience.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a luxurious 5-star hotel, boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Located 5km from Prison Island, this property is perfect for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and golf-themed activities. Guests can enjoy direct beach access and partake in golf experiences offered on-site. The hotel’s sophisticated ambience, combined with high-end amenities, ensures a memorable stay for discerning travellers looking for an elevated vacation experience.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, it’s perfect for families and those seeking a unique experience. Explore the island’s rich history, visit the giant tortoise sanctuary, and enjoy stunning beaches. Nearby, the vibrant streets of Stone Town beckon with their historical charm, while the secluded beaches provide a romantic escape. With friendly locals and plenty to do, this destination is ideal for everyone.

• Zanzibar Town: Located a mere 6km from Prison Island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city teeming with life and culture. The city welcomes a steady stream of visitors year-round, peaking in January to February and July. It offers a delightful mix of beach, outdoor, and family experiences. Popular activities include indulging in water sports and enjoying the local theatre scene. Notable landmarks such as beautiful beaches and lush parks are easily accessible, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning coastal scenery of Zanzibar.
• Stone Town: Just 5km from Prison Island, Stone Town is a historic neighbourhood brimming with charm and rich cultural heritage. Visitor numbers peak in February and again from November to December, with a consistent influx throughout the year. The area is perfect for those seeking beach, outdoor, and family-friendly experiences. Stone Town boasts an array of activities, including thrilling water sports and vibrant public markets. The proximity to picturesque beaches and serene parks adds to its allure, ensuring that every visitor finds something memorable.
• Bububu: Located 6km away from Prison Island, Bububu is a quaint city known for its stunning beaches and cultural experiences. The travel scene here remains steady, with visitor numbers peaking in January to February and October. Bububu is ideal for those who appreciate beach life, outdoor activities, and cultural themes. Here, you can enjoy theatre performances, exhilarating water sports, and breathtaking sunsets. The area is home to various attractions, including beautiful beaches and significant monuments, making it a delightful stop on your Zanzibar adventure.

Things to do in Prison Island

Shopping

On Prison Island, you can find local crafts and souvenirs from small vendors near the beach, showcasing unique items. If you're up for a drive, head to Stone Town’s markets, about 8km away, where you can explore vibrant stalls selling spices, textiles, and handmade goods.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Prison Island Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and holistic treatments surrounded by tropical flora. For leisure, explore the island’s pristine beaches, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, or take a leisurely bike ride to appreciate the stunning scenery.

Adventure

Explore Prison Island’s tortoise sanctuary, where you can interact with giant Aldabra tortoises. Enjoy snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant marine life. Additionally, take a stroll on the island's picturesque beaches to soak up the sun and unwind in a serene environment.

Nightlife

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed vibe at the Prison Island Restaurant, where fresh seafood and local dishes are served. For a lively atmosphere, explore the nearby beach bars offering music and dancing under the stars, creating a vibrant ambience for a memorable night.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

To save on your visit to Prison Island, consider travelling during the cheaper months of April to May or November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays typically offer the lowest accommodation prices, while Thursdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and location, and check for last-minute deals. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings. Don't forget to explore free activities and use public transport for economical travel around the area.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Prison Island are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Prison Island about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Prison Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Prison Island is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your selections based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking for Prison Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

When visiting Prison Island, tourists can enjoy a variety of attractions including beautiful beaches, an urban park, and a fascinating museum. These points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and explorers alike. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the island's unique charm while enjoying its stunning natural beauty.

• Forodhani Gardens: Nestled 5km from Prison Island, Forodhani Gardens offers a delightful urban park experience. With its lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere, it serves as a gathering spot for families and locals alike, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while enjoying the stunning views of the sea.
• Shangani Beach: Also located 5km away, Shangani Beach is a tranquil haven where you can unwind on soft sands and soak up the sun. The inviting waters are ideal for swimming and relaxation, making it a serene escape from the bustling city life.
• Old Fort: Just 5km from Prison Island, the Old Fort is a fascinating historic site that encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore its ancient walls and learn about its storied past, making it a valuable stop for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Prison Island

The best time to visit Prison Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Prison Island

Reaching Prison Island in Tanzania is convenient via two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated 13km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, 2km from the airport, offering various transportation services, including free airport transfers. Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km away, also provide accessible shuttle services. Alternatively, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 84km from the island, with luxurious hotels such as Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, each 11km from the airport, offering 24-hour shuttle services for easy access to the airport.