Zanzibar Stone Town, Spice Farm & Prison Island Day Tour

Summary

Private Zanzibar Day Trip: Markets, Spices & Changuu Island

If you want to taste, touch, and really feel Zanzibar in a day—from Stone Town’s lively markets to feeding giant tortoises on Prison Island—this tour packs it all in without feeling rushed. You’ll come home smelling like spices and maybe with sand still stuck between your toes.

What’s the experience like?

You know you’re in Zanzibar the moment the air shifts—warm, thick with the scent of cloves and something sweet I still can’t name. We started our day in Stone Town’s market, where the noise is a kind of music: vendors calling out prices, kids darting between baskets of lychees and jackfruit. Our guide, Salim, pointed out a tiny stall selling fresh nutmeg—he said his grandmother used to buy it here for her famous pilau. The cathedral nearby stands tall, its stone walls cool even in the late morning heat. I remember touching one of the old doors—carved wood, heavy brass studs—and thinking about all the hands before mine.

The spice farm was next. It’s not just a walk; you get your hands dirty. We crushed lemongrass between our fingers (smells like lemon candy), tasted star fruit right off the tree—tart and juicy—and tried to guess what “lipstick fruit” would look like before seeing its bright red seeds. The farmers showed us how they make clove oil; honestly, I’ve never smelled anything so sharp and clean at once. If you’re after souvenirs, this is where locals say you’ll find real deals on oils and perfumes—not those touristy bottles at the airport.

By early afternoon we were on a small boat headed for Prison Island. The ride’s quick but bumpy—hold onto your hat if there’s wind! Changuu Island’s history surprised me: it was meant as a prison but ended up a quarantine spot during yellow fever outbreaks. The real stars here are the Aldabra giant tortoises. Some are over 100 years old; their shells feel rough and warm from sunbathing. Feeding them lettuce was a highlight—they move slow but have this gentle way of looking at you that makes time slow down too. There’s a short nature trail if you want shade or just to hear birds instead of city sounds. We finished with a swim—the water’s clear enough to see tiny fish darting around your toes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zanzibar Spice Farm and City Tour

• Visit spice plantations to pick and smell spices
• Explore Zanzibar's market, cathedral, museum, and historic sites
• Tour Prison Island, see giant tortoises and beaches

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The tour is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible throughout—just let us know if you need extra help.

Can I buy spices or oils at the farm?

Absolutely—you’ll find locally made oils and perfumes at great prices right at the spice farm.

How long do we spend on Prison Island?

You’ll have plenty of time to meet the tortoises, explore the beach, and take a short nature walk—usually about 2 hours total.

What’s included

Your private transport (with AC), bottled water for each guest, all entrance fees and taxes are covered—so you can just focus on exploring Zanzibar’s best spots without any hassle.