Find hotels near Prison Island, Changuu Island

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Historic Prison Tour: Discover the fascinating history of the island with a guided tour of the historic prison, offering captivating insights into its past.
• Snorkeling Adventures: Explore vibrant underwater ecosystems through snorkeling, showcasing the marine life around the island.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful, pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Dolphin Encounters: Experience thrilling boat tours that allow you to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Charming Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and vibrant culture that characterize the island's community.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Discover the perfect retreat on Prison Island, where a variety of hotels and guesthouses cater to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, a business-friendly accommodation, or a relaxing beach vacation, you'll find excellent options nearby. Explore the best hotels with top-notch services, read reviews, and enjoy the stunning surroundings as you unwind in this unique destination.

• Tembo House Hotel: Embracing the essence of a family-friendly beach retreat, Tembo House Hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for adventurous travelers. Located a mere 4.8km from Prison Island, this 4-star hotel features direct beach access, allowing guests to dive into a variety of exciting activities such as snorkeling, parasailing, and fishing. The property is well-equipped for families, providing child-friendly amenities like playgrounds, games, and safety features including window guards. The opportunity to engage in both relaxation and adventure makes Tembo House a great choice for those seeking memorable experiences.
• Spice Tree by Turaco: Spice Tree by Turaco is a delightful 4-star hotel that combines a relaxing beachfront environment with family-friendly accommodations. Situated 4.8km from Prison Island, this hotel invites guests to enjoy direct beach access while providing exceptional services catered to children, including in-room babysitting options. Families can unwind knowing that amenities like window guards and first aid kits are available. With its serene ambiance and focus on family vacations, Spice Tree ensures a peaceful stay for those looking to create lasting memories by the sea.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: For travelers seeking a luxurious escape, Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a stunning 5-star hotel located 4.8km from Prison Island. Set in the city center with direct beach access, this property offers a sophisticated blend of urban and beach vacation experiences. Guests can indulge in the full-service spa that features outdoor pools, rejuvenating facial treatments, and couple’s rooms for relaxation. The elegant design and top-notch amenities come together to create an unparalleled experience, making Park Hyatt Zanzibar the perfect choice for those craving indulgence in a vibrant setting.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. This secluded paradise is perfect for a beach getaway, with stunning views and easy access to pristine shores. Explore the charming atmosphere created by friendly locals while visiting historical landmarks. Don’t miss the chance to relax on the beach, enjoy romantic sunsets, and experience the vibrant culture that surrounds this island gem, making it an ideal destination for any traveler.

• Zanzibar Town: Located 6.4km from Prison Island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural experiences. Visitors to Zanzibar Town can enjoy a blend of beach relaxation and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect family destination. The city is bustling with activity, especially in January to February and July, when traveler numbers peak. Notable attractions include stunning beaches, a beautiful park, and various shopping centers. The local theater scene and resort options add to the travel experience, ensuring you have plenty to explore during your stay.
• Stone Town: Just 4.8km from Prison Island, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its narrow winding streets and historic architecture. This neighborhood experiences a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak times in February and November to December. Stone Town offers a fantastic beach experience alongside outdoor activities and family-friendly venues. The public market is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. With its proximity to various parks and islands, Stone Town provides a unique blend of relaxation and exploration.
• Changuu Island: As the location of Prison Island, Changuu Island is a natural paradise that attracts travelers seeking beach and eco-friendly experiences. This beautiful island sees heightened activity from July to September, making it a popular choice for vacationers. With its pristine beaches and lush parks, Changuu Island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Besides the notable Prison Island attraction, visitors can enjoy the serene environment and stunning views, ensuring a memorable getaway for all.

Things to do near Prison Island

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors. You can enjoy a memorable stay with a guided tour of the historic prison, embark on scenic boat rides, and explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to encounter dolphins and experience thrilling boat tours that provide adventure escapes in this beautiful Tanzanian paradise.

Shopping

In Prison Island, explore the vibrant Darajani Market, a bustling public market just 4.8km away, offering a variety of local goods and souvenirs. Also, don't miss the Zanzibar Night Market, located 4.8km away, perfect for experiencing local cuisine and unique crafts.

Recreation

At Sea Cliff Golf Course, located 11.3km from Prison Island, enjoy a relaxing day on the greens surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Engage in outdoor activities that promote wellness, such as golfing, walking, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this scenic venue.

Adventure

Kite Centre Zanzibar offers thrilling water sports activities, located 45.1km from Prison Island. Experience the excitement of kite surfing and windsurfing, surrounded by stunning ocean views. The vibrant atmosphere and professional instructors make it a perfect spot for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Prison Island with a visit to The Island Bar, where you can sip on tropical cocktails while enjoying the ocean breeze. For a unique vibe, check out the beachfront bonfire gatherings, offering local music and dance under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

To save money on your trip to Prison Island, consider visiting from April to May or November when prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals highlighted with a green banner. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter accommodations by budget and eco-certification, and don’t forget to explore package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Prison Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay on Prison Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

During your visit to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, you can explore beautiful beaches, historic forts, and lush urban parks. Experience local culture while enjoying outdoor activities. Don't miss nearby attractions like Nakupenda Island and the vibrant Stone Town, and consider staying at some of the best resorts in the area for a relaxing getaway. These experiences will surely create lasting memories of your vacation in Tanzania.

• Shangani Beach: Located 4.8km from Prison Island, Shangani Beach offers stunning coastal views and a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy the sun, sand, and soothing waves, making it a perfect spot for beach vibes and unwinding.
• Forodhani Gardens: Just 4.8km away, Forodhani Gardens is an urban park that provides a vibrant outdoor experience. It's an ideal place for families to gather, enjoy local street food, and soak in the lively city atmosphere, especially during the evening.
• Old Fort: A short 4.8km journey from Prison Island, the Old Fort is a historic site that showcases the rich culture of Tanzania. Explore the ancient architecture and learn about the island's history, immersing yourself in the local heritage.

Best time to go to Prison Island

The best time to visit Prison Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	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	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	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

Traveling to Prison Island in Tanzania is convenient via two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated 12.9km from the island, with excellent hotel options nearby such as the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 1.6km away, offering various airport shuttle services. Park Hyatt Zanzibar, 8.0km from ZNZ, also provides accessible airport transportation. Alternatively, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is located 83.7km away, with luxury accommodations like the Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro, 11.3km from DAR, offering airport shuttles. Johari Rotana is another great option, located 9.7km from DAR, with similar shuttle services available.