Did you know that a small island off the coast of Tanzania is home to giant tortoises that can live for more than 100 years?
Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, lies just off Zanzibar’s Stone Town and is famous for its population of enormous Aldabra giant tortoises.
Some of these remarkable animals weigh more than 200 kilograms and have lifespans that can exceed a century.
Today, the island is one of Zanzibar’s most unusual wildlife attractions.
How did giant tortoises reach Zanzibar?
The giant tortoises are not originally native to Zanzibar.
They come from the Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles, another island nation in the Indian Ocean.
In 1919, four Aldabra giant tortoises were presented to Zanzibar as a gift from the Seychelles.
Over time, the tortoises bred, establishing a population on Changuu Island.
Their descendants remain one of the island’s main attractions.
Animals that can outlive humans
Aldabra giant tortoises are among the longest-living land animals on Earth.
Many can survive for more than 100 years, while exceptional individuals have lived considerably longer.
Their slow metabolism, large bodies and protective shells help them survive in their natural environments.
Despite their enormous size, these tortoises are herbivores.
They mainly eat grasses, leaves and other vegetation.
Their slow movements and peaceful behaviour make them fascinating animals to observe.
Why is it called Prison Island?
Changuu Island has an unusual history.
During the 19th century, it was associated with the detention of enslaved people.
A prison building was later constructed on the island, giving it the English name Prison Island.
However, the building was never used as a functioning prison.
Instead, the island became a quarantine station during periods when authorities were concerned about infectious diseases arriving by sea.
Today, Changuu is primarily known for tourism and its giant tortoise sanctuary.
Protecting Zanzibar’s giant tortoises
The island’s tortoise population has faced challenges over the years, including theft and conservation concerns.
Protection and breeding efforts have helped preserve these animals.
Visitors can observe the tortoises at the sanctuary, although responsible tourism is important to avoid disturbing them.
The animals offer a reminder of the remarkable biodiversity shared by islands across the Indian Ocean.
They also highlight the historical connections between Tanzania and Seychelles.
One of Zanzibar’s most unusual attractions
Zanzibar is widely known for its white-sand beaches, historic Stone Town and spice plantations.
But Changuu Island offers visitors something different: the opportunity to see enormous tortoises whose lifespans can stretch across generations.
Fun fact: The giant tortoises living on Zanzibar’s Prison Island are descendants of animals brought from Seychelles more than a century ago.