Hotels near Prison Island

Top reasons to visit Prison Island

• Stunning Beaches: Prison Island boasts picturesque beaches, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Rich History: Explore fascinating historical ruins and learn about the island's past.
• Exciting Activities: Enjoy guided tours, dolphin watching, and vibrant snorkelling experiences.
• Unique Attractions: Experience immersive adventures and escape rooms reminiscent of London’s Prison Island.
• Delightful Accommodations: Choose from a variety of charming hotels offering excellent amenities and a warm atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Prison Island

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options on Prison Island, perfect for all types of travellers, from families to business guests. Enjoy the serene beach vacation experience with excellent amenities at popular spots like Mizingani Seafront Hotel and Zanzibar Serena Hotel. Whether you're seeking a cosy single room or planning group bookings, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere complemented by positive hotel reviews to enhance your stay on this enchanting island.

• Tembo House Hotel: This charming 4-star hotel embodies a unique hot spring and adventure theme, providing guests with an exhilarating beach holiday experience. Located 5km from Prison Island, Tembo House Hotel offers direct access to the pristine beach, inviting you to enjoy the sun and sea. The property features nearby natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure. Guests can engage in various recreational activities, such as fishing, snorkelling, and parasailing, ensuring a thrilling stay surrounded by stunning coastal beauty.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: This delightful 4-star hotel is an ideal choice for families seeking a beach getaway. Situated 5km from Prison Island, the hotel boasts direct access to the beach, making it easy for families to enjoy seaside fun. With amenities tailored for children, including babysitting services and a first aid kit, families can feel secure and catered for during their stay. The inviting atmosphere and family-friendly services create a welcoming environment, perfect for creating lasting memories together.
• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: A prestigious 5-star hotel, Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers an elegant beach and adventure-themed experience for discerning travellers. Located 5km from Prison Island, this luxurious property provides direct access to the beach and an array of adventurous activities such as hiking, sailing, and snorkelling. With a guest rating of 9.4, the hotel is renowned for its exceptional service and refined amenities, ensuring a sophisticated and memorable stay in a beautiful coastal setting.

Where to stay near Prison Island

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. Just a stone's throw away, you can explore the serene beaches and historical ruins, perfect for families and those seeking a romantic getaway. The friendly locals enhance the experience, making it ideal for a secluded retreat. Whether you indulge in water sports or savour the picturesque views, this destination promises an unforgettable escape brimming with charm and history.

• Zanzibar Town: Located approximately 6km from Prison Island, Zanzibar Town offers a vibrant blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. The town is known for its stunning beaches and family-friendly activities, making it a popular destination throughout the year. Visitors flock here for water sports, theatre performances, and relaxation at local resorts. With attractions such as beautiful parks and pristine beaches, Zanzibar Town provides a perfect base for exploring the enchanting coastline and immersing yourself in the rich local culture.
• Stone Town: Just 5km from Prison Island, Stone Town is a historic neighbourhood that captivates visitors with its winding alleyways and unique architecture. Like Zanzibar Town, it enjoys a steady flow of tourists year-round, peaking in February and December. The neighbourhood is celebrated for its outdoor activities, including water sports and vibrant public markets, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handicrafts. Stone Town's proximity to beautiful beaches and lush parks makes it an ideal spot for families and those seeking cultural immersion.
• Changuu Island: As the home of Prison Island, Changuu Island is an idyllic getaway that appeals to nature lovers and eco-conscious travellers. Located just a short boat ride from Zanzibar, this tranquil island features stunning beaches and lush landscapes. Visitors to Changuu Island can enjoy outdoor activities, relax at resorts, and explore the island’s unique wildlife, including the famous giant tortoises. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, Changuu Island is perfect for those wanting a peaceful retreat while still being close to the bustling attractions of Zanzibar.

Things to do in Prison Island

Shopping

In Prison Island, you can find local stalls offering handmade crafts and unique souvenirs, perfect for gifting. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting Stone Town’s Darajani Market, located about 26km away, where you can explore vibrant stalls filled with spices, textiles, and Zanzibari artifacts.

Recreation

On Prison Island, the serene atmosphere invites relaxation. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the local wellness centre, or partake in yoga sessions overlooking the turquoise waters. Explore nature trails for gentle walks, where you can connect with the island's tranquil environment and vibrant wildlife.

Adventure

Explore the captivating Prison Island, home to giant tortoises and historical ruins. Enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant marine life, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The island's rich history and stunning scenery offer an unforgettable adventure for those seeking both exploration and tranquillity.

Nightlife

As the sun sets on Prison Island, enjoy a refreshing drink at The Island Bar, where vibrant tunes fill the air. For a more relaxed vibe, explore the beachside lounges offering stunning views of the stars and gentle waves, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Prison Island

To save money on your visit to Prison Island, consider travelling during the off-peak months of April to May and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel approximately one month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s tools to filter hotels by price and eco-certification, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Walking is also a great way to explore the island without incurring transport costs.

• 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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation on Prison Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Prison Island

Prison Island offers a delightful blend of attractions for visitors, including picturesque beaches, an urban park, and a fascinating museum. Those seeking cultural experiences can immerse themselves in the island's rich history, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore local heritage, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Tanzania.

• Freddie Mercury Museum: Situated approximately 5km from Prison Island, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of the legendary Queen frontman. With its rich cultural vibes, visitors can explore memorabilia, photographs, and personal artefacts that reflect Mercury's connection to Zanzibar, offering a fascinating glimpse into his world.
• Forodhani Gardens: Also located 5km away, this urban park is a vibrant hub for families and friends. With a picturesque setting along the waterfront, it features lush greenery and local food stalls, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely evening stroll and sampling traditional Tanzanian street food.
• Shangani Beach: Nestled 5km from Prison Island, Shangani Beach boasts stunning coastal views and a serene atmosphere. This beach is a lovely place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze, providing a quintessential beach experience.

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	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

Reaching Prison Island in Tanzania can be conveniently done via Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), which is situated 13km away. Excellent hotel options near this airport include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, located 2km away, offering various transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle upon request. Both Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km from the airport, also provide accessible transport options. Alternatively, DAR es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 84km away, with nearby luxury hotels such as the Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency, both 11km from the airport, offering shuttle services as well.