Explore the Unique Tortoise Sanctuary of Zanzibar
Discover the beauty of conservation at Zanzibar's Tortoise Sanctuary, a unique animal park dedicated to giant tortoises and their protection.
The Tortoise Sanctuary in Zanzibar is a unique animal park dedicated to the conservation of these magnificent creatures. Visitors can interact with and learn about giant tortoises in a serene environment, making it a must-visit destination for animal lovers.
A brief summary to Tortoise Sanctuary
- V5J8+5JQ, Zanzibar, TZ
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning when the tortoises are most active.
- Bring some cash for donations or to purchase souvenirs from the sanctuary.
- Check the feeding times for an interactive experience with the tortoises.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on natural terrain.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the memorable moments with the tortoises.
Getting There
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Car Rental
To reach the Tortoise Sanctuary by car, start from Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar. Drive north on the A1 road for about 45 minutes. After passing through the town of Nungwi, continue on the A1 until you see signs for Changuu Island. Take a left turn onto a smaller road towards the sanctuary. The sanctuary is located at the coordinates V5J8+5JQ. Make sure to check the road conditions and your rental agreement for any restrictions.
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Taxi
If you prefer a taxi, you can easily find one in Stone Town. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey to the Tortoise Sanctuary. The trip will take about 45 minutes, and the fare usually ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 TZS (Tanzanian Shillings), depending on your bargaining skills and the time of day.
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Public Transportation (Dala Dala)
For a more budget-friendly option, you can take a "Dala Dala" (shared minibus) from Stone Town to the Tortoise Sanctuary. Head to the Dala Dala station near the Old Fort and find the bus heading towards Nungwi. After about 30-40 minutes, get off at the Changuu Island sign. From there, it's a short walk to the sanctuary. The fare for the Dala Dala is around 1,500 TZS per person.
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Boat Transfer (Optional)
If you are planning to visit the nearby Changuu Island, consider taking a boat transfer. There are several operators in Stone Town offering trips to the island, which often include a stop at the Tortoise Sanctuary. Prices vary, but expect to pay around 25,000 TZS for a round trip. Confirm the boat schedule ahead of time, as they may change depending on the season.
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