Hotels near Prison Island

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Stunning Beaches: Prison Island boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Fascinating Tortoise Sanctuary: Explore the unique tortoise sanctuary, home to giant Aldabra tortoises, a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Snorkelling: Experience vibrant marine life while snorkelling in the surrounding coral reefs, ideal for aquatic adventures.
• Rich History: Discover the island’s intriguing history through its museum and historical sites, offering educational insights.
• Warm Local Hospitality: Enjoy the welcoming nature of the locals as you explore the island's hidden gems and cultural experiences.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Discover an array of accommodation options on Prison Island, Tanzania, catering to diverse traveller needs. From family-friendly hotels to cosy guesthouses, you’ll find the ideal base for your beach vacation or business trip. Notable options include Mizingani Seafront Hotel and Zanzibar Serena Hotel, both offering comfortable single rooms and group bookings. Read reviews to ensure a memorable stay while exploring the island's unique charm and attractions.

• Tembo House Hotel: Tembo House Hotel offers a delightful blend of beachside charm and family-friendly activities. This 4-star hotel, with a guest rating of 8.6, is situated 5km from Prison Island. The property boasts direct access to the beach, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers. Families will appreciate the various amenities designed for children, including a games area, foosball table, and an arcade game room. The nearby natural hot spring adds a unique touch, offering relaxation and rejuvenation for adults after a day of family fun.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.8, Turaco Spice Tree is a 4-star establishment located 5km from Prison Island. This hotel is perfect for families looking for a beach getaway, featuring direct beach access and a welcoming atmosphere. The property is well-equipped with children's amenities, including babysitting services and safety features like window guards. Guests can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday while having peace of mind with the amenities tailored for younger visitors.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: Park Hyatt Zanzibar stands out as a luxurious 5-star option with a remarkable guest rating of 9.4. Located 5km from Prison Island, it offers an adventurous retreat with direct beach access. This hotel caters to thrill-seekers and nature lovers, featuring adventure sports such as boat tours, snorkelling, fishing, and hiking nearby. The sophisticated accommodations combined with a variety of recreational activities provide an exciting escape for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Zanzibar.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a unique blend of adventure and history for visitors. Just a short boat ride from Zanzibar, this secluded paradise features stunning beaches, fascinating tortoise sanctuaries, and vibrant marine life ideal for snorkelling. Nearby, the historic Stone Town invites exploration with its charming streets and rich culture, making it perfect for families and romantic getaways alike. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals as you uncover the island's hidden gems.

• Stone Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is a vibrant neighbourhood located 5km from Prison Island. Renowned for its winding alleys and historical architecture, it offers a unique blend of culture and history. Visitors can indulge in water sports, explore local markets, and enjoy theatrical performances. The area boasts stunning beaches, lush parks, and captivating islands, making it an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
• Bawe Island: Situated 5km from Prison Island, Bawe Island is a serene escape known for its eco-friendly resorts and pristine beaches. This enchanting island attracts travellers year-round, particularly during the peak seasons of November to January. Visitors can relax on the sun-kissed shores or engage in outdoor activities amidst the island's natural beauty. With its tranquil atmosphere and proximity to parks and stunning beaches, Bawe Island is perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
• Bububu: Located 6km from Prison Island, Bububu is a charming city that offers a rich cultural experience. Known for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets, this vibrant locality is perfect for visitors seeking outdoor activities and cultural themes. Bububu features various attractions, including theatres, water sports facilities, and significant monuments. The city's lively atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an excellent choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Things to do in Prison Island

Shopping

On Prison Island, you'll find local markets where you can purchase handcrafted souvenirs and traditional gifts. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting Stone Town's Darajani Market, which offers a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of local products, spices, and textiles to explore.

Recreation

On Prison Island, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the tranquil eco-resorts, where you can unwind surrounded by nature. Engage in yoga sessions on the beach, or partake in guided meditation to enhance your well-being while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Adventure

Explore the historic Prison Island, home to giant tortoises and fascinating ruins. Enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant marine life. A guided tour provides insights into the island's intriguing past, while the sandy beaches offer a perfect spot for relaxation and picturesque views of the Indian Ocean.

Nightlife

Experience the laid-back vibe at the Prison Island Beach Bar, where you can sip tropical cocktails while enjoying the sunset. For a touch of adventure, join a night snorkelling tour to explore the vibrant marine life under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

For a budget-friendly visit to Prison Island, consider travelling during the off-peak months of April to May and November when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can yield the best rates, while Saturday is the cheapest day to stay. Utilise Expedia's search tools to filter by your budget and preferences, and look for last-minute deals. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can provide further savings. Don't forget to explore free activities on the island to enhance your experience without straining your wallet.

• 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: Booking a hotel around Prison Island about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable rates and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can economise by combining your hotel reservation for Prison Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a delightful mix of attractions for every type of traveller. You can bask on beautiful beaches, explore the local museum, or enjoy the serene urban park. Whether you seek cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply wish to relax by the sea, this destination promises an enriching escape into Tanzania's natural beauty and history.

• Forodhani Gardens: Located approximately 5km from Prison Island, Forodhani Gardens is a vibrant urban park that offers a delightful atmosphere for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park is known for its beautiful greenery and lively ambience, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while enjoying the views of the ocean.
• Shangani Beach: Also around 5km from Prison Island, Shangani Beach boasts stunning coastal scenery and soft sands, perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim. The beach vibe here is relaxed, providing a tranquil escape where you can unwind and soak in the local tropical beauty.
• Old Fort: A historic fort located 5km from Prison Island, Old Fort showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore its intriguing architecture and learn about the history of Zanzibar, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in local culture.

Best time to go to Prison Island

The best time to visit Prison Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Prison Island falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Prison Island falls in July, 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	Slightly Low
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	Average
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

Accessing Prison Island, Tanzania, is convenient via two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated 13km from the island, with excellent hotels nearby, such as the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 2km away, offering various transportation services including a 24-hour airport shuttle. Other nearby options include the Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km away. Alternatively, DAR es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 84km distant, with luxurious hotels like Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, both 11km away, providing shuttle services to the airport. Pemba Island Airport (PMA), 119km away, is another option, with hotels like Fundu Lagoon and Misali Beach nearby.