Search Hotels Near Prison Island, Changuu Island

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Rich History: Discover the intriguing past of Prison Island, originally a quarantine site, through informative tours and a captivating museum.
• Giant Tortoise Sanctuary: Visit the unique sanctuary housing Aldabra giant tortoises, a rare and fascinating experience for animal lovers.
• Snorkelling Adventures: Explore vibrant marine life while snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.
• Secluded Beaches: Relax on stunning, less-crowded beaches, perfect for sunbathing and unwinding.
• Dolphin Watching: Enjoy the thrill of dolphin watching in the surrounding waters, an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Discover the charming accommodations on Prison Island, where a variety of lodgings, including hotels and guesthouses, cater to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a business trip base, or a beachside getaway, you'll find excellent facilities and options for single or group bookings. With top-rated hotels and insightful reviews available, you're sure to find the perfect place to enjoy your stay in this idyllic Tanzanian paradise.

• Tembo House Hotel: This charming 4-star hotel, boasting a guest rating of 8.6, is ideally located 4.8km from Prison Island. Tembo House Hotel offers a unique blend of beach and adventure themes, perfect for those seeking an exhilarating vacation. With direct access to the beach and proximity to a natural hot spring, guests can indulge in relaxing hot spring amenities. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in a range of activities such as swimming, fishing, parasailing, snorkelling, and boat tours, making it an ideal choice for thrill-seekers.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.8, this delightful 4-star hotel is also situated 4.8km from Prison Island, making it a fantastic option for families. Emphasising a beach theme, Turaco Spice Tree offers direct beach access and a variety of child-friendly amenities. Families can take advantage of babysitting services, in-room childcare (for a fee), and additional safety measures such as window guards. A breakfast service for children ensures that even the youngest guests are catered for, making it a suitable choice for family vacations.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: A luxurious 5-star accommodation, Park Hyatt Zanzibar has an impressive guest rating of 9.4 and is located 4.8km from Prison Island. This hotel caters to travellers seeking a blend of beach relaxation and golf experiences. With direct beach access, guests can unwind by the sea or engage in golfing activities on-site. The opulent setting and top-notch amenities create an unparalleled vacation experience, making it a perfect choice for discerning travellers.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a unique blend of relaxation and history for travellers. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this tranquil spot is perfect for families and adventurers alike. Explore the fascinating tortoise sanctuary, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or bask on secluded beaches. Nearby, Stone Town’s rich culture and romantic atmosphere await, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and serenity in Tanzania.

• Zanzibar Town: Situated approximately 6.4km from Prison Island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of culture and leisure. Known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, the town is a fantastic destination for families and beach lovers alike. The peak travel seasons are January to February and July, when visitors flock to enjoy water sports and relax in local resorts. Notable attractions include stunning beaches, picturesque parks, and the charming atmosphere of the town itself, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas.
• Stone Town: Located just 4.8km from Prison Island, Stone Town is a historic neighbourhood renowned for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. Visitors are drawn to its captivating architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and variety of outdoor activities, including water sports. Peak tourism months are February and November to December, when the area buzzes with life. Highlights include exploring the local public markets, enjoying performances at theatres, and soaking up the sun on nearby beaches. Stone Town offers an unforgettable experience steeped in history and local charm.
• Changuu Island: Changuu Island, where Prison Island is located, is a picturesque destination for those seeking an eco-friendly escape. This island paradise attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in July to September. Known for its outdoor activities and pristine beaches, Changuu Island is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Relax in the serene surroundings or visit local resorts that enhance the island's tranquil atmosphere. With beautiful landscapes and a rich variety of wildlife, Changuu Island promises a memorable getaway for all who venture to its shores.

Things to do in Prison Island

Prison Island offers a variety of engaging activities, including tours that reveal its intriguing history, opportunities for dolphin watching, and excellent snorkeling spots to explore vibrant marine life. For those seeking indoor fun, there are immersive escape rooms and adventure games to challenge your wits. The unique Prison Island experience combines history and recreation, making it a must-visit destination during your trip to Tanzania.

Shopping

On Prison Island, enjoy a quaint shopping experience with local artisans selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens Market, located about 8.0km away, where you can find vibrant stalls offering spices, textiles, and unique gifts.

Recreation

Prison Island offers a tranquil retreat with its pristine beaches and azure waters, perfect for yoga sessions at sunrise. Explore the vibrant marine life through snorkelling, unwind with spa treatments, and indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, all while soaking in the island's natural beauty.

Adventure

On Prison Island, explore the fascinating tortoise sanctuary, home to giant Aldabra tortoises. Enjoy snorkelling in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island, or take a guided historical tour of the old prison, immersing yourself in its intriguing past while soaking in stunning coastal views.

Nightlife

On Prison Island, the laid-back vibe is perfect for stargazing and enjoying beachside bonfires. The Island's bar offers refreshing cocktails, while local musicians provide live entertainment, creating a relaxed atmosphere ideal for mingling with fellow tourists and soaking up the tropical night air.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Prison Island are March to May, 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your Prison Island hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a delightful mix of attractions for visitors, including a charming urban park, an intriguing museum, and stunning beaches. These points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and relaxation by the sea. Explore the rich history and natural beauty that make this destination a must-visit during your stay in Tanzania.

• Mbweni Ruins: Explore the captivating remnants of the 19th-century mission at Mbweni Ruins, located 4.8km from Prison Island. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal views that this historical site offers.
• Forodhani Gardens: Just 4.8km away, Forodhani Gardens is an urban park perfect for families. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, indulge in local street food, and take in the lush greenery while watching the sunset over the ocean.
• Shangani Beach: Relax at Shangani Beach, located 4.8km from Prison Island. With its soft sands and inviting waters, it’s the ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking in the tranquil beach vibes.

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.

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

To visit Prison Island in Tanzania, you can fly into Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), situated 12.9km away. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 1.6km from the airport, offering various transport services such as an airport shuttle on request and free airport transportation. The Park Hyatt Zanzibar and Zanzibar Serena Hotel, both 8.0km away, also provide convenient access to the airport. Alternatively, you may fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, located 83.7km from Prison Island, with excellent hotels like the Hyatt Regency and Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel offering shuttle services.