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Changuu Island

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Changuu Island

Changuu Island

Located off the coast of Zanzibar City, this small island is a nature and history site. Travelers visit to see the local wildlife and explore the remains of a former prison used to hold enslaved people. The island allows for a combination of historical reflection and activities in clear coastal waters.

Getting There

The island is reachable by boat from Stone Town. The trip typically takes a short duration depending on the boat type and sea conditions.

Duration of Visit

Visitors generally spend a few hours on the island to walk through the historical sites and observe the animals before returning to the mainland.

When to Visit

The island can become crowded during peak tourist seasons and mid-day hours. Planning a visit during the shoulder seasons or early in the day may avoid the largest crowds.

Combining with Other Sites

Because of its proximity to the city center and other islets, this trip can be combined with the following locations:

  • Chapwani Island: 3km
  • Bawe Island: 5.1km
  • Forodhani Gardens: 5.2km
  • Palace Museum: 5.3km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Changuu Island

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Changuu Island Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Zanzibar City 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Zanzibar City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Zanzibar City 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Zanzibar City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Chapwani Island

Nature

Chapwani Island

A small private island off the coast of Zanzibar, home to a cemetery where British sailors who died in World War I are buried. It offers quiet island scenery alongside traces of history.

3.0 km away
Bawe Island

Nature

Bawe Island

Bawe Island is a small island in the Zanzibar Channel, about 10 kilometers from Stone Town, Zanzibar. Its quiet, secluded atmosphere makes it a great place to relax.

5.1 km away
Forodhani Gardens

Parks & gardens

Forodhani Gardens

This small park lines the waterfront promenade of Stone Town. Facing landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, it's a pleasant spot for a scenic stroll.

5.2 km away
Palace Museum

Museums & galleries

Palace Museum

A three-story building on the waterfront of Stone Town, Zanzibar, notable for its white walls with crenellated details. Located between the House of Wonders and the Old Dispensary, it's easy to visit alongside them on a Stone Town walk.

5.3 km away
Malindi Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Malindi Mosque

Malindi Mosque is located near the harbor in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It's a modest landmark worth a stop while strolling through Stone Town.

5.3 km away
Ijumaa Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Ijumaa Mosque

Ijumaa Mosque is tucked away in the alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Renovated in 1994 in an Arabesque Swahili style, it showcases a distinctive architectural charm.

5.3 km away