Changuu

#121 among destinations in Tanzania

Island

Gallery (2)

Map

Map

Gallery

Facts and practical information

Changuu Island, located in the Zanzibar West region of Tanzania, is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean. This small island is a paradise for nature lovers, with its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors can explore the island's lush tropical forests and discover the diverse flora and fauna that call Changuu home.

One of the main attractions on Changuu Island is the historic Changuu Island Prison. Built in the late 19th century, the prison was never actually used to house prisoners, and today it stands as a haunting reminder of the island's colonial past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison and learn about its fascinating history.

For those seeking adventure, Changuu Island offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater exploration. Snorkelers and divers can encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins in the clear waters surrounding the island.

Changuu Island is also home to a population of friendly and playful Aldabra giant tortoises. These gentle giants roam freely around the island, and visitors have the unique opportunity to interact with them up close. The tortoises are a popular attraction for tourists and provide a memorable experience for animal lovers of all ages.

Local name: Kisiwa cha Changuu Archipelago: Zanzibar ArchipelagoCoordinates: 6°7'8"S, 39°10'2"E

Location

Zanzibar WestTanzania

ContactAdd

Social media

Add

Day trips

Changuu – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: House of Wonders, Darajani Market, Forodhani Gardens, Sultan's Palace.

3.3 miSE
Museum
House of Wonders, Stone Town
84 min walk • The House of Wonders, a grandiose edifice in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania, stands as a beacon of cultural history and architectural marvel. Officially known as Beit-al-Ajaib, this stately building was constructed in 1883 and holds the distinction of...
3.5 miSE
Shopping, Flea market, Market
Darajani Market, Stone Town
90 min walk • The Darajani Market is the main bazaar in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It is also known as Estella Market and informally as Marikiti Kuu. The market is located in Darajani Road, in the surroundings of the Anglican Cathedral of Christ.
3.3 miSE
Garden, Park
Forodhani Gardens, Stone Town
84 min walk • The Forodhani Gardens is a small park in the historical city of Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. The gardens are located along the main seawalk of Stone Town, just in front of the most famous buildings of Stone Town, i.e. the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.
3.2 miSE
Museum
Sultan's Palace, Stone Town
83 min walk • The Sultan's Palace is one of the main historical buildings of Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. It is a 3-story building with merlon-decorated white walls, located in Mizingani Road, on the seafront, between the House of Wonders and the Old Dispensary.
3.4 miSE
Church
St. Joseph's Cathedral, Stone Town
86 min walk • The Roman Catholic cathedral of St. Joseph is one of the most important historical buildings in Stone Town, Zanzibar, as well as one of its main visitor attractions.
3.5 miSE
Historical place, Church
Christ Church, Stone Town
90 min walk • Christ Church is an Anglican cathedral in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. It belongs to the Anglican Church of Tanzania. It is a landmark historical church, as well as one of the most prominent examples of early Christian architecture in East Africa.
3.2 miSE
Architecture
Old Dispensary, Stone Town
83 min walk • The Old Dispensary, also known as Ithnashiri Dispensary, is a historical building in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It is located on the seafront, in Mizingani Road, halfway between the Palace Museum and the harbour.
3.3 miSE
Mosque
Malindi Mosque, Stone Town
84 min walk • Malindi Mosque is a mosque in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania, located near the port. It stems from the 1830s but was possible built on the site of an elder mosque that might have dated back to the 17th century or earlier.
3.3 miSE
Mosque
Ijumaa Mosque, Stone Town
84 min walk • Ijumaa Mosque is a mosque in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. The mosque was completely renovated in 1994 in the modern arabesque style.
3.7 miSE
Lighthouse
Marubi Palace Gardens Range Rear Lighthouse, Stone Town
95 min walk • The Marubi Palace Gardens Range Rear Lighthouse is located in the Marubi Palace Gardens in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. The lighthouse is located to support ships trying to dock at the Stone Town harbor.
3.3 miSE
Museum, Nightlife, Bars and clubs
Old Fort, Stone Town
85 min walk • The Old Fort, also known as the Arab Fort and by other names, is a fortification located in Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar. It is the oldest building and a major visitor attraction of Stone Town.