Just a short boat ride from the bustling streets of Stone Town lies Changuu Island, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty. Known as Prison Island, this captivating destination offers more than just a glimpse into Zanzibar’s past – it’s a sanctuary for rare wildlife, a haven for beach lovers, and a testament to the island’s resilience and transformation
A Glimpse into the Island’s Past
Changuu Island’s story begins in the 1860s when the first Sultan of Zanzibar, Majid bin Said, gifted it to two Arab slave owners. They used the island as a prison for rebellious slaves, giving it the nickname “Prison Island.” At the time, Zanzibar was a major hub in the global slave trade. However, in 1873, Sultan Seyyid Barghash signed a treaty banning slavery under pressure from the British, who had abolished slavery in 1807
In 1893, British First Minister Lloyd Mathews acquired the island with plans to build a prison. Although construction was completed in 1894, the prison was never used due to fears of disease outbreaks. Instead, the island became a quarantine station for British territories in East Africa. By 1923, it was officially renamed Quarantine Island, and its buildings were converted into a hospital where patients were observed for 1-2 weeks before being cleared to leave
Home to the Aldabra Giant Tortoises
One of the island’s most iconic features is its population of Aldabra giant tortoises. Introduced in 1919 as a gift from the British governor of Seychelles, these gentle giants thrived on the island, reaching 200 by 1955. Sadly, due to poaching for meat and the pet trade, their population dwindled to just seven by 1996. Thanks to conservation efforts by the government and stakeholders, their numbers are now steadily increasing
Today, visitors can interact with these magnificent creatures, which weigh an average of 200 kg and can live for over 100 years. The island also hosts a colony of vibrant peacocks, adding to its unique charm
Interesting Facts About Changuu / Prison Island
- The island’s original name, Changuu, comes from a type of fish found in the surrounding waters
- In its early years, the only freshwater source was rainwater stored in underground tanks, limiting visitor numbers during the dry season
- The island’s transformation from a prison to a quarantine station and now a tourist destination reflects its fascinating evolution
How to Get There
The island is accessible by boat from Stone Town, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes. While there’s no public ferry service, you can rent a traditional motorized dhow from Stone Town’s harbor. Be sure to negotiate the price with local sailors and prepare for occasionally rough waters
