Search Hotels Near Prison Island, Changuu Island

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Historic Fort: Explore the remnants of the old prison and learn about the island's fascinating history.
• Tortoise Sanctuary: Visit the famous sanctuary home to giant Aldabra tortoises, a unique experience for animal lovers.
• Snorkelling and Dolphin Watching: Enjoy the vibrant marine life and the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Serene Beaches: Relax on beautiful, secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for unwinding.
• Proximity to Stone Town: Take advantage of the island's closeness to Zanzibar's historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options on Prison Island, where charming guesthouses and hotels cater to both families and business travellers alike. With excellent facilities and a focus on beach vacation experiences, you'll find the perfect retreat close to the island's stunning shores. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or those nearest to the island, your stay promises comfort and convenience in this picturesque setting.

• Tembo House Hotel: Embracing a harmonious blend of business and relaxation, Tembo House Hotel is a 4-star haven located a mere 1.9km from Prison Island. Perfect for travellers seeking a spa and hot spring experience, this hotel features a natural hot spring nearby, offering rejuvenating amenities. Business travellers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting rooms, business centre, and conference space. The full-service spa includes a variety of treatments such as massages, body scrubs, and couples’ treatment rooms, ensuring a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.
• Spice Tree by Turaco: Ideal for families and beach lovers, Spice Tree by Turaco is a delightful 4-star property located 1.9km from Prison Island. With direct access to the beach, it serves as a perfect gateway for sun-soaked days and seaside adventures. Designed with families in mind, the hotel provides essential amenities for children, including window guards and babysitting services. The inviting atmosphere and family-friendly services make this hotel an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable beach vacation.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: For those in search of luxury, the 5-star Park Hyatt Zanzibar delivers an exquisite experience just 1.9km from Prison Island. Nestled in the city centre, this hotel offers direct beach access along with a full-service spa featuring a range of treatments, including body and facial treatments, and daily spa services. Its sophisticated ambience combines city sophistication with beach relaxation, making it an ideal choice for discerning travellers who desire the best of both worlds.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Discover the enchanting charm of Prison Island, a small tropical paradise just off the coast of Zanzibar. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or embark on an adventure in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. With its secluded beaches and friendly locals, this destination offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal escape for any traveller seeking romance and adventure in a blissful setting.

• Zanzibar Town: Situated approximately 2.5km from Prison Island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of culture and relaxation. With a steady influx of tourists year-round, it peaks in January to February and July. Visitors flock here for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. You can indulge in water sports or unwind at luxurious resorts. Don't miss the bustling public markets where local flavours come alive, and be sure to explore nearby parks and the picturesque beaches that define this coastal gem.
• Stone Town: Just 1.9km from Prison Island, Stone Town is a historic neighbourhood famed for its winding alleys and rich heritage. This area sees a consistent flow of tourists, peaking in February and November to December. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, Stone Town boasts an array of activities from theatre performances to exhilarating water sports. Take time to visit its charming beaches and parks, where the beauty of the island is on full display. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Changuu Island: Located a mere 62m from Prison Island, Changuu Island is a tranquil escape that enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and lush landscapes. Although it experiences a consistent number of travellers, peak times are from July to September. Perfect for families and outdoor adventurers, the island offers various activities including visits to local markets and leisurely beach days. Explore the stunning natural surroundings and enjoy the serenity of this idyllic island, making it a perfect addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.

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.

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.

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Prison Island

For a visit to Prison Island in Tanzania, you can fly into two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is located 5.0km away and offers convenient access. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Park Hyatt Zanzibar and Zanzibar Serena Hotel, both 3.1km from the airport, with various airport shuttle services. Alternatively, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is situated 32.3km from Prison Island. Recommended hotels include the 5-star Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam and Johari Rotana, both within 4.3km, also providing shuttle options. With a range of transport services available, reaching Prison Island from either airport is quite manageable.