Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island

Outty Ranking 526 hoursFrom $120
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Outty Ranking

52/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

Not yet rated

No traveler reviews have been published for this experience yet.

Quick answer

Is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island worth booking?

Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island is a 6-hour experience in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, from $120 per person. It scores 52 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
52 / 100
Rating
Not yet rated
Duration
6 hours
From
$120 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Zanzibar City, with an Outty Ranking of 52. At $120 it sits above the typical similar option ($46), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

Prices and availability checked

This trip is a half-day adventure where you can explore a historic street made of coral stone from the 19th and 20th centuries. Stone Town, where the street is located, is a lively place where Arabic, African, Indian, and European cultures mix together happily. You'll walk through narrow streets filled with mosques, churches, and temples. Your guide will take you on a journey through the city's history and culture. You'll visit places like the old slave market, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, Darajani market, and Forodhani Gardens. Then, you'll hop on a boat to Prison Island which is about 5 km away. The island used to be a prison but is now a hotel. You'll get to see a sanctuary giant tortoises imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. Some of these tortoises are over 150 years old and weigh about 200 kg. For the rest of the trip, you can snorkel around the coral reefs near Prison Island or just relax on the beach before heading back to Stone Town.

What you get

    About this experience

    This trip is a half-day adventure where you can explore a historic street made of coral stone from the 19th and 20th centuries. Stone Town, where the street is located, is a lively place where Arabic, African, Indian, and European cultures mix together happily. You'll walk through narrow streets filled with mosques, churches, and temples. Your guide will take you on a journey through the city's history and culture. You'll visit places like the old slave market, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, Darajani market, and Forodhani Gardens. Then, you'll hop on a boat to Prison Island which is about 5 km away. The island used to be a prison but is now a hotel. You'll get to see a sanctuary giant tortoises imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. Some of these tortoises are over 150 years old and weigh about 200 kg. For the rest of the trip, you can snorkel around the coral reefs near Prison Island or just relax on the beach before heading back to Stone Town.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotels Pickup and Dropoff
    • Snacks
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Use of snorkeling equipment

    Not included

    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Anglican Zanzibar Diocese

      The Zanzibar Old Slave Market, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, was one of the largest slave markets in East Africa during the 19th century. It played a central role in the Indian Ocean slave trade until it was abolished in 1873. Today, the site features the Anglican Cathedral, built to commemorate the end of the slave trade, and preserved slave chambers where captives were held in inhumane conditions. Visitors can also see a memorial monument and a museum that provide historical context and education on the slave trade and its lasting impact.

      50 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Freddie Mercury Museum

      Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen, was born Farrokh Bulsara on September 5, 1946, in Stone Town, Zanzibar. His early years on the island, before moving to India and later to the UK, contributed to his unique cultural perspective. Today, Zanzibar celebrates its connection to Mercury with landmarks such as his birthplace in Stone Town, which attract many fans. This connection highlights the island's rich cultural heritage and Mercury's diverse background.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. The Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

      The Zanzibar Old Fort, also known as Ngome Kongwe or the Arab Fort, is a historic site in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Built by Omani Arabs in the late 17th century to defend against invasions, it features massive stone walls and towers reflecting Arab and Swahili architectural styles. Over the years, it has served as a military garrison, prison, and railway depot. Today, it is a cultural center and major tourist attraction, hosting events like the Zanzibar International Film Festival and housing craft shops and an amphitheater. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing Zanzibar's rich history and cultural heritage.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Darajani Bazaar

      Darajani Market, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, is a bustling and vibrant marketplace central to local life and popular with tourists. It features a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, spices, seafood, meat, clothing, and household items. Known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural experience, the market showcases the daily trading practices of Zanzibari people. It is a key destination for those wanting to experience the local culture and purchase Zanzibar's famous spices.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Prison Island - Changuu Private Island

      Prison Island Adventure Escape to Prison Island (Changuu Island) for a day of history, wildlife, and relaxation. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, explore the island’s historic prison ruins, meet the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. Relax on pristine beaches, soak up the island breeze, and enjoy panoramic ocean views. A perfect mix of adventure and tranquility awaits!

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Options you can book

    • Pickup any hotel in zanzibar

      Pickup any hotel in zanzibar: this include pickup from any hotel from zanzibar Pickup included

    • Pickup Stone Town Hotels

      Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 7 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Riser tours and safaris Zanzibar

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 2Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 3Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 4Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 5Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 6Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island in Zanzibar City, photo 7

    Good to know

    Duration
    6 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $120 to $235
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    0
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 52

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)81
    Review evidence (18% weight)0
    Booking momentum (14% weight)0
    Value for money (12% weight)59
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)50
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Zanzibar City.

    How does Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island compare to similar tours in Zanzibar City?

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    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Zanzibar City, with an Outty Ranking of 52. At $120 it sits above the typical similar option ($46), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

    Who is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island best for?

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    It suits families and couples best, based on its 6-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

    Is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island good value?

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    It is a premium pick. It starts at $120, above the $46 typical for similar experiences in Zanzibar City.

    How much does Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island cost?

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    Prices start at $120 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Zanzibar City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island take?

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    Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Zanzibar City is not rushed.

    Is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 52 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Zanzibar City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island?

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    Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Zanzibar City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Zanzibar City and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Zanzibar City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Zanzibar City?

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    On Outty we rank every Zanzibar City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Stone Town Heritage Walk with local Guide, 3 Hours Private Stone Town Walking Tour, Stone Town Private Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Zanzibar City?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Zanzibar City?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island?

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    Included: Hotels Pickup and Dropoff; Snacks; All Fees and Taxes; and Use of snorkeling equipment. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 697 listed pickup locations in and around Zanzibar City. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island offered in?

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    It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Zanzibar City. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What booking options are available for Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Pickup any hotel in zanzibar, Pickup Stone Town Hotels. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island.

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