Changuu Private Island

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Situated 3.5 miles off of the northwest coast of Zanzibar, the island of Changuu (also known as Prison Island) is reached by a 20 minute journey by traditional dhow from Stone Town. An island of much history, the former prison buildings have been converted and refurbished to provide a variety of facilities to include a café, boutique and library. The island itself is small at just half a mile long and 250 yards wide.

There are just 15 luxury cottages on the north west of the island, built of local materials with thatched roofs. The rooms have mosquito nets, a private veranda facing seawards and ensuite facilities with outdoor bathrooms. The 12 sea facing rooms built in the old quarantine quarters on the south west side of the island offer views of Stone Town. They also have mosquito nets and are all ensuite.

The Matthews Restaurant has a wide veranda which overlooks the fresh water swimming pool. Housed in a building dating from the late 1890’s, the restaurant serves a wide variety of cuisine, including traditional, international, seafood and fish. Also available are dishes such as pizza, as well as being a great place to enjoy delicious cocktails whilst you watch the sun go down.

If you prefer to be active, there is a floodlit court for a game of tennis or you can take a nature trail through the tropical forest to see the various interesting flora and fauna that can be found here. Also making its home on the island is the Tortoise Sanctuary, home of the Giant Aldabra tortoises who have lived here for more than 80 years. Just 2 yards off shore you will often find sea turtles swimming around the coral reef - just one reason to take a dip!

The island is steeped in history and has been, in its time, a prison during the slave trade and a quarantine station, but has always remained a favourite visiting place for Zanzibari locals to rest and relax.

EMAIL US AT: info@go2zanzibar.co.uk
CALL US ON + 44 (0)15242 42018

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