When you’re planning a visit to Zanzibar in Tanzania, you’ve most likely heard of “Jail Island.” Generally known as “Changuu Island” or “Turtle Island,” it’s also known as the Tortoise Sanctuary.
The identify Jail Island in Zanzibar comes from its historical past as a former jail, though it was by no means used for that objective.
Changuu Island will get its identify from the abundance of fish within the surrounding waters – Changuu is the Swahili phrase for fish.
Though known as Turtle Island by vacationers, there are no turtles on this explicit island; solely tortoises will be discovered right here.
The primary attraction of this island is undoubtedly the Tortoise Sanctuary, the place you may see big Aldabra tortoises within the wild.
With so many alternative names floating round, it’s straightforward to get confused. However don’t fear! We’re right here to information you and provide you with all the knowledge you must go to Jail Island in Zanzibar.
Associated learn: Most Well-liked Day Journeys from Zanzibar
Right here is an outline:
The place is Jail Island in Zanzibar?
Situated within the northwestern a part of Stone City, this web site is just 5.6 km or 3.5 miles from Stone City, making it conveniently near the town and excellent for a fast go to.
A ship trip to succeed in it takes about 25 minutes, however bear in mind that the water can get tough at occasions, which may barely prolong the length of your journey.
Though the island is just not very giant, solely 800m lengthy and 220m broad, it has a wealth of sights and experiences to supply.
What to see on Jail Island
There are a whole lot of tortoises on Jail Island, and they’re positively the principle attraction.
Some folks might mistakenly name them turtles, however technically they’re tortoises. There are about 100 of them; you may stroll amongst them and even feed them. They’ve lettuce for breakfast proper on the bottom!
When you’re fortunate, you would possibly even pet these wonderful creatures and take photos.
Nonetheless, it’s essential to do not forget that as company of their habitat, we must always respect their area. Don’t attempt to power them to do something or choose them up – the worst factor you are able to do is sit on them!
These Aldabra tortoises are one of many largest tortoise species on the planet; some can weigh as much as 200kg! What makes them really outstanding is that they’re believed to be among the many longest-living creatures on the planet. The oldest tortoise on Changuu Island is estimated to be a powerful 196 years outdated. You’ll discover that a few of these lovely creatures have numbers on their shells indicating their age.
Initially from the Aldabra Atoll within the Seychelles, 4 of those unimaginable tortoises had been generously donated by the Governor of the Seychelles within the 18th century. Their inhabitants grew to round 200 people.
Sadly, their numbers started to say no quickly within the Sixties resulting from poaching. These magnificent creatures had been both stolen for consumption or stored as unique pets. Shockingly, by 1980, there have been solely 100 full-grown people left alive, and sadly, that quantity dropped drastically to simply seven by 1996.
Confronted with such an alarming decline, and with the Aldabra tortoise being listed as ‘susceptible,’ pressing motion was required by the authorities, and eighty hatchlings had been relocated to Jail Island to supply shelter for this endangered species. This shift within the island’s objective, from a spot of exile to a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures, was largely resulting from its geographical isolation, which offered them with a protected haven.
Along with tortoises, Jail Island can be residence to some peacocks, birds, and small, elusive duikers – tiny antelopes which are troublesome to identify.
The second most attention-grabbing attraction on the island is undoubtedly the jail ruins. There are benches and a bar the place you may get pleasure from a beer or espresso throughout your go to. Understand that it is likely to be a bit expensive, however having such an incredible view along with your drink would possibly make up for it! The restaurant there’s known as the “Jail Restaurant.”
Curiously sufficient, you may go snorkeling close to Jail Island after your go to. It has develop into fairly widespread with guests on the lookout for extra water actions. Simply ask the captain of your boat journey to take you there, as it will be not possible to succeed in this spot from shore, and the water is extremely clear, providing nice visibility of the marine life inside the reef.
When is the very best time to go to Jail Island?
The best time to go to is within the morning for a number of causes.
First, tortoises are keen and able to eat at the moment. They may actively eat meals out of your hand or forage for themselves.
Second, as a result of it’s early within the day and never too sizzling, they are usually extra energetic and transfer round a bit extra (although don’t count on them to run all over the place). It’s all inside tortoise limits.
To benefit from your expertise with out feeling uncomfortable as a result of warmth, leaving Stone City at 9am is ideal timing. The temperature gained’t be scorching, and also you’ll get to see the turtles at their greatest – a win-win scenario.
Nonetheless, do not forget that as a result of the mornings are widespread with guests such as you, there could also be some congestion as boats dock and undock. There could also be a brief wait to get on or off the boat, however nothing too lengthy.
The way to get to Jail Island?
Sadly, there aren’t any public ferries to take you to Jail Island.
Nonetheless, when you occur to be strolling alongside one of many two seashores in Stone City, likelihood is that you may be approached by people providing non-public boat charters. Most of those boats are motorized dhows, that are about 7 meters (22 toes) lengthy and identified for his or her glossy hull design. The price of this boat journey will be negotiated and often decreases per individual when extra folks be a part of the journey. When you’re on a decent funds, it’s potential to affix a gaggle and avoid wasting cash.
Nonetheless, warning is suggested as arranging your personal journey might end in being cheated or ending up on an unsafe vessel.
Unauthorized guides may also be topic to vital fines, which may complicate your trip. To make sure a clean and hassle-free expertise, it’s advisable to e-book an organized tour as a substitute.
Non-public tour to Jail Island in Zanzibar
You’ll be able to organize non-public excursions to Jail Island for 3 hours.
Throughout this time, you may be taught in regards to the island’s fascinating historical past and admire its breathtaking surroundings.
Embark on an satisfying journey aboard a conventional dhow as you meet your information in Zanzibar or are picked up out of your resort when you want.
Expertise the fascinating story of how this small island bought its identify and now serves as a sanctuary.
Value: $50 (Solely $33 on Fridays and Saturdays!)
Period: 3 hours
Free cancelation as much as 24 hours earlier than
Ebook the expertise immediately with the tour operator right here
The package deal consists of:
- non-public boat transportation
- Entrance payment
- Educated native information
- Snorkeling gear
- Refreshing consuming water
Jail Island tour with lunch on the sandbank
Begin your tour by heading to Jail Island, the place the journey begins.
Discover the beautiful underwater world and meet the magnificent big tortoises that inhabit this island. Swim alongside colourful fish and marvel on the awe-inspiring surroundings that surrounds you.
Later, loosen up and unwind on enchanting sandbars as when you had been fortunate sufficient to find them your self.
Value: $94
Period: 6 hours
Free cancelation as much as 24 hours earlier than
Ebook the expertise immediately with the tour operator right here
The package deal consists of:
- A scrumptious BBQ lunch
- Handy boat transportation
- Entrance charges are lined for you
- An informative native information to reinforce your expertise
- High-of-the-line snorkeling tools offered in your comfort
- Refreshing consuming water accessible all through the journey
- Tasty snacks to maintain you energized
Zanzibar: Changuu Island and Stone City Tour with Lunch
Embark on a personalised day journey to 2 of Zanzibar’s most well-known sights – Changuu Island and Stone City. Immerse your self within the wealthy historical past, tradition and other people of the world whereas having fun with a conventional meal.
Start your journey with a non-public boat trip to Changuu Island, the place you’ll have the liberty to discover at your personal tempo. Benefit from the chance to immerse your self within the native tradition and rise up shut and private with the island’s native turtles.
Cool off out of your adventures by snorkeling the pristine waters seeking vibrant marine life, colourful fish and beautiful coral reefs. This refreshing exercise enhances your exploration of the island’s peacocks and antelopes.
When you’ve completely explored Changuu Island, make your strategy to Stone City – an East African metropolis steeped in cultural and historic significance. Marvel at its magnificent Nineteenth-century structure, with influences from Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European civilizations.
Be taught extra about Stone City by visiting notable landmarks such because the Outdated Slave Market and the Metropolis Market after studying about its nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Work together with locals as you store for a wide range of items that really seize the essence of East Africa.
Take in the appeal of Stone City by exploring fascinating websites such because the Palace Museum, the Home of Marvel (Beit-el-Ajaib) and Freddie Mercury’s childhood residence. To finish this enriching expertise, take a second to go to the Pure Historical past Museum (Nyumba ya sanaa) and the Peace Memorial (Mnara wa amani).
Value: $92
Period: 6 hours
Free cancelation as much as 24 hours earlier than
Ebook the expertise immediately with the tour operator right here
Your tour consists of:
- Admission Charges
- Information charges
- Refreshing consuming water
- Scrumptious lunch
- Comfy boat switch
- Educated native information
- Snorkeling gear in your enjoyment
Boat and security on water
Many of the boats accessible are lengthy motorized boats with a solar shade. They will not be probably the most comfy, however they’re adequate for the quick journey to Turtle Island.
Getting on and off the boat is simple, as most have a small ladder, and when you’re fortunate, you gained’t even get moist. Nonetheless, folks with bodily disabilities might discover it a bit difficult and require extra time.
As talked about above, the water can get uneven at occasions, inflicting some bouncing. It’s essential to notice that life jackets are required on all boats, so please inform the captain when you want to put on one.
Normally, the journey doesn’t take lengthy and is comparatively protected. These captains sail this route a number of occasions a day and are very aware of it.
A useful suggestion could be to take some photos of your self aboard the boat as you strategy Stone City or Jail Island.
How a lot does it value, the place to pay and what are the opening hours?
The price for native guests is 15 USD or 3000 TSH, whereas the entry payment for Minai Conservation is 6000 TSH.
There are two cost cubicles which are straightforward to identify. First you need to pay on the reception desk and then you definitely get your tickets handy over to the ticket collector, which is about 10 meters away. It’s important to have these tickets as they permit entry to the turtle sanctuary.
Youngsters as much as the age of eight are admitted freed from cost, whereas these over eight pay the identical value as adults.
Bank cards usually are not accepted at the moment, however there are rumors that they are going to be within the close to future.
Hours of operation begin at 9:00 am and finish at 5:30 pm.
Staying in a single day on Changuu Island
For individuals who wish to maximize their expertise right here, spending an evening in one of many accommodations on Changuu Island might be an attention-grabbing choice.
You’ll get to get up with none vacationers round and luxuriate in all this distinctive location has to supply.
The Changuu Island Lodge gives facilities like swimming pools and various kinds of rooms to swimsuit totally different preferences. The lodge gives 27 room choices divided into two classes.
There are 15 luxurious deluxe cottages discreetly located alongside the ocean line on the northwest aspect of the island. These cottages supply the utmost in privateness and seclusion whereas being constructed with native supplies and conventional thatched roofs to create a snug temperature all through the day and night time.
Inside these spacious lodging, you can see elegant decor and en-suite loos in your consolation.
As well as, every cottage has a non-public outside veranda going through the ocean, permitting you to benefit from the ocean’s breathtaking views and soothing sounds absolutely.
On a distinct be aware, there are additionally 12 charming commonplace rooms situated in Stone City’s former quarantine space constructed again in 1931. Situated on the southwest aspect of the island, these rooms supply magnificent views of Stone City itself. As with the opposite lodging on the lodge, every room has its personal en-suite lavatory.
Switch in Zanzibar
As an alternative of the inconvenience and expense of calling a taxi at first or finish of your journey, select this handy and quick different. You’ve got two decisions.
You’ll be able to make the most of a non-public airport switch to Stone City, which is reasonably priced, protected, and cozy.
Alternatively, you may select the non-public switch choice to journey between any level on the island of Zanzibar. Whether or not from the airport to a seaside resort or out of your resort to anyplace else on the island, you might have full freedom to resolve the place you wish to go.
