Is this tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes, the Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour is family-friendly and safe for children. It offers a great mix of nature, wildlife, and history.

Can I be picked up from my hotel in Zanzibar?

Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included from most locations in Zanzibar. Please confirm your hotel at booking.

Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour 2026 – Zanzibar Wildlife & Heritage Adventure

Experience the perfect blend of nature and history on this Jozani Forest & Prison Island day tour in Zanzibar. Walk through the magical rainforest of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park—home to the rare Red Colobus monkeys—and explore the rich history and turquoise waters of Prison Island, known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and crystal-clear snorkeling spots. This is the ideal excursion for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to uncover two of Zanzibar’s top highlights in one unforgettable day.

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Stone Town, Spice Farm and Prison Island Tour

Tour Highlights – Jozani Forest & Prison Island Excursion

Encounter Zanzibar’s rare Red Colobus monkeys in the lush Jozani Forest Reserve, the island’s only national park.
Explore mangrove boardwalks and tropical ecosystems rich in biodiversity and local medicinal plants.
Visit historic Prison Island (Changuu), once used to detain rebellious slaves and later as a quarantine station.
Get up close with Aldabra giant tortoises—some over 100 years old—and learn about their conservation.
Swim or snorkel in clear turquoise waters around Prison Island, with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
Guided by a local expert who shares deep knowledge of Zanzibar’s natural and cultural history.
Perfect half-day tour combining nature, wildlife, and heritage—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Overview – Discover Nature and History in One Day

The Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour is one of Zanzibar’s most rewarding half-day adventures, blending untouched nature with fascinating heritage. Perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the island’s unique ecosystems and cultural legacy, this tour takes you from the heart of Zanzibar’s only national park to the shores of Prison Island—a protected sanctuary rich in history and marine beauty.

Your journey begins at Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, a verdant rainforest teeming with exotic flora and fauna. The star of the forest is the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey, found only on the island. Watch these playful primates swing from trees and interact in their natural habitat. As you stroll along shaded trails and over scenic mangrove boardwalks, your guide will explain the forest's medicinal plants, rare bird species, butterflies, and conservation efforts.

After soaking in Jozani’s beauty, you’ll head to the coast and board a traditional boat for a short cruise to Prison Island (Changuu Island). Once a site for rebellious slaves and later a quarantine station, this small island now serves as a popular destination known for its gentle Aldabra giant tortoises. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants, some of whom are over a century old.

You’ll also have time to relax on the white sand beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or even snorkel around the surrounding coral reef teeming with tropical marine life. Your guide will share captivating stories about the island’s past and its transformation into a conservation area.

Whether you're a wildlife lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic escape, this Zanzibar nature and heritage tour is a must-do. It’s a peaceful, enriching experience that balances activity with relaxation and offers a perfect glimpse into the soul of Zanzibar.

Book your Jozani Forest and Prison Island tour today and discover two of Zanzibar’s most iconic treasures in one unforgettable day.

Itinerary – What to Expect on Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour

Morning: Explore Jozani Forest Reserve

Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. On arrival, a local guide will lead you through the forest’s lush trails where you’ll observe the rare Zanzibar Red Colobus monkeys in their natural habitat. Walk along elevated boardwalks through the mangrove forest, learn about the region’s flora and fauna, and take in the peaceful ambiance of this vital ecosystem.

Midday: Transfer to Prison Island (Changuu Island)

After exploring Jozani, your guide will transfer you to the beach for a short traditional dhow ride across turquoise waters to Prison Island. As you approach, you’ll see the island’s white shores and colonial buildings—once used as a quarantine and detention center.

Afternoon: Discover History & Wildlife on Prison Island

At Prison Island, you’ll visit the old prison ruins and learn about the island’s unique history. Next, meet the Aldabra giant tortoises, originally gifted from the Seychelles. You can feed and interact with them while learning about conservation efforts to protect these gentle reptiles.

Afterward, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach. The coral reefs around the island are perfect for light snorkeling and offer glimpses of colorful fish and sea creatures.

Late Afternoon: Return to Hotel

After a full day of adventure and discovery, you’ll return by boat to the mainland and be dropped off at your hotel by early evening.

Duration: Half-day (Approx. 5–6 hours)
Tour Type: Guided, private or small group option
Pick-up: Included from Zanzibar hotels (Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje, and others)

Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour Map & Location

This combined tour takes you through two of Zanzibar’s most iconic locations—Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and Prison Island (Changuu Island). Experience the best of Zanzibar’s inland biodiversity and marine charm in one enriching day.

Jozani Forest: Located in the center of Zanzibar Island, Jozani Forest is home to the endemic Red Colobus monkey and a biodiverse mangrove ecosystem.
Prison Island: Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this historic island is known for its tortoise sanctuary and colonial-era ruins surrounded by turquoise waters.

Need help getting here? Our tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for your convenience—no planning required!

Tour Gallery – Jozani Forest & Prison Island Highlights

Browse through some of the memorable moments and captivating landscapes from the Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour. Expect lush forest scenes, curious red colobus monkeys, turquoise waters, and giant Aldabra tortoises.

Why Book Your Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour With Us?

We are passionate about helping you experience the real Zanzibar through immersive and well-organized day tours. Here's why travelers choose us for their nature and heritage adventures:

Local Expertise: Based in Zanzibar, our experienced guides know the island’s history, wildlife, and hidden gems better than anyone.
Certified Eco-Guides: Our tours in Jozani Forest are led by certified nature experts committed to conservation and sustainable tourism.
All-Inclusive & Hassle-Free: We take care of everything—from hotel pickup and entrance fees to bottled water and expert guiding—so you can relax and enjoy.
Small Group or Private Tours: Enjoy a personalized experience whether you book a private excursion or join a small group.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or last-minute charges. What you see is what you pay.
Trusted by Hundreds of Travelers: We’re proud to have 5-star reviews across platforms for delivering consistent, memorable Zanzibar experiences.

Pricing & Customization Options

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, or small group, our Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour is designed to suit your style and budget. Prices vary depending on your group size and desired service level. Private tours and group discounts are available.

Standard Shared Tour

From $45 per person

Join a small group with fixed departure times
English-speaking local guide
All entrance fees and boat transfer included
Ideal for budget travelers and solo explorers

Private Guided Tour

From $85 per person (min. 2 pax)

Personalized experience with a private guide
Flexible pick-up time
Ideal for couples, families, and photographers
Hotel pick-up and drop-off included

Luxury Add-On Package

From $135 per person

Private tour with gourmet picnic lunch
Exclusive dhow transfer to Prison Island
Custom itinerary timing
Includes chilled drinks and beach gear

Customize Your Experience

Want something extra or unique? Let us know and we’ll make it happen.

Private hotel pick-up from any location in Zanzibar
Multilingual guide (French, Spanish, German on request)
Vegetarian or halal meal options (for add-on packages)
Combine this tour with a Stone Town Walking Tour for a full cultural day

What’s Included & Not Included in Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour Price

What’s Included

Entrance fees to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Entrance fee to Prison Island
Guided nature walk through Jozani Forest with a park ranger
Boat transfer to and from Prison Island
Visit to the Aldabra Giant Tortoise sanctuary
Professional English-speaking guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Stone Town or on request)
Bottled drinking water
All government taxes and levies

What’s Not Included

Lunch or snacks (can be arranged upon request)
Tips and gratuities for guide and boat crew
Optional snorkeling gear rental at Prison Island
Hotel pick-up outside Stone Town (extra charge applies)
Personal travel insurance

Ready to Explore Zanzibar’s Natural & Historical Treasures?

Discover the unique biodiversity of Jozani Forest and the fascinating history of Prison Island on this enriching half-day adventure. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or beach explorer, this tour offers something unforgettable.

See the rare Red Colobus Monkeys in their natural habitat
Walk along the mangrove boardwalk in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Visit the historic Prison Island and its giant tortoise sanctuary
Guided by a local expert for an insightful experience
Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers

Limited daily slots available — book now to secure your spot on this popular Zanzibar tour!

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Book Your Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour

Frequently Asked Questions – Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour

1. How long is the Jozani Forest & Prison Island Tour?

This is a half-day tour, typically lasting between 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pick-up location and time spent at each attraction.

2. Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes! This tour is family-friendly. Kids will love seeing the giant tortoises at Prison Island and spotting monkeys in Jozani Forest.

3. What should I bring for the tour?

We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, a hat, and insect repellent. A camera or smartphone is also great for capturing wildlife and views.

4. Can I swim or snorkel at Prison Island?

Yes, there is a beach area where swimming is possible. Snorkeling gear is available for rent at an additional cost if you’d like to explore the coral reef.

5. Are entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, the tour includes entrance fees for both Jozani Forest and Prison Island, as well as boat transfers and guiding services.

6. Where is pick-up available from?

We offer free hotel pick-up and drop-off from most locations within Stone Town. Pick-ups from other areas (like Nungwi or Paje) can be arranged at an additional cost.