Prison Island

Things to do near Prison Island

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors. Enjoy immersive adventures such as the Zanzibar tour, where you can explore the island's history and its famous tortoise sanctuary. For a touch of excitement, consider dolphin watching and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters, making your visit a memorable experience filled with the beauty of Zanzibar's marine life.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Darajani Market, a lively public market located 1.9km from Prison Island, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. The Zanzibar Night Market, also 1.9km away, offers a fantastic atmosphere for evening shopping, making it a must-visit for souvenirs.

Recreation

The Sea Cliff Golf Course, situated 4.3km from Prison Island, offers a refreshing outdoor experience with its scenic fairways and vibrant sports atmosphere. Enjoy a round of golf while soaking in the stunning coastal views, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation in the tranquil surroundings.

Adventure

At Kite Centre Zanzibar, located 17.4km from Prison Island, thrill-seekers can indulge in exhilarating water sports amidst the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Experience kite surfing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, all while soaking up the vibrant outdoor atmosphere and coastal beauty.

Nightlife

On Prison Island, the nightlife is vibrant and laid-back, with beach bars offering refreshing cocktails and local music. Enjoy sunset views at the Island Restaurant or take part in beach bonfires, creating a perfect atmosphere for mingling with fellow travellers under the starlit sky.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers an array of attractions for every type of visitor. Whether you’re seeking a cultural experience, outdoor adventure, or a relaxing day at the beach, you’ll find it all here. Key points of interest include the historic fort and serene beaches, perfect for unwinding. Don’t miss the chance to explore the island’s intriguing history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for your Tanzanian getaway.

• Mbweni Ruins: Located 1.9km from Prison Island, these historical ruins offer a glimpse into the region's rich culture and history. Explore the remnants of the old church and its surrounding gardens, set against a backdrop of stunning coastal views.
• Shangani Beach: Also 1.9km away, Shangani Beach boasts soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim. Experience the laid-back beach vibes while enjoying the picturesque sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
• Forodhani Gardens: Just 1.9km from Prison Island, this urban park is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through lush green spaces, savour local street food, and enjoy vibrant evening markets, all while soaking up the lively city atmosphere.

Best time to go to Prison Island

The best time to visit Prison Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Prison Island falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Prison Island falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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 (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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	Slightly Low
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

To save money on your trip to Prison Island, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April to May and November for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel around a month in advance can help you secure the best deals, particularly on Saturdays, which are typically cheaper than Thursdays. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and look for package deals combining flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for last-minute discounts, especially if you're feeling spontaneous!

• 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: Book your hotel around Prison Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Prison Island hotel reservation with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.