Travel Guide Prison Island

Prison Island (or Changuu Island, prison in Kiswahili) owes its name to an Arab merchant who kept slaves here from Bagamoyo before selling them. A prison was built by the sultan in 1893, but never used; its ruins can still be seen. The island is home to giant land tortoises, imported centuries ago from the Seychelles. Some are over 110 years old. The tour (US$15 per person) involves feeding them and scratching their necks. There are also free-roaming peacocks, and the beach is superb. Combine this with snorkeling around Bawe Island and grilling at the Nakupenda sandbar for an all-day outing.