Tortoise Island

　　Introduction     A one-and-a-half-hour boat ride from Dar es Salaam, the capital of Tanzania, will take you to Zanzibar, known as the “Fragrant Isle.”

　　    Zanzibar is an evergreen island, lush with trees all year round. It consists of more than 20 small islands, including Zanzibar Island, Pemba Island, and Tortoise Island. On April 24, 1964, Zanzibar united with Tanganyika to form the present United Republic of Tanzania.

　　     The most attractive destination in Zanzibar is Tortoise Island.      Located just 5 kilometers from Zanzibar City, it takes only 40 minutes to reach by electric boat. With over 100 giant tortoises residing on the island, it has earned the name Tortoise Island.       Calling it a paradise on earth is no exaggeration. The island is shaded by trees, blooming with flowers, and alive with birdsong—a serene world filled with the sounds of nature. From the island, you can gaze out at the vast sea, listen to the rhythm of the waves, and admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters, which are truly uplifting. You can also spot seabirds soaring above and fishing boats dotting the horizon—truly breathtaking scenery. But what captivates visitors the most are the giant tortoises on the island.       It is said that the smallest tortoises on the island are 300 years old, while the oldest are over 500 years. Despite their impressive age, these tortoises are lively and endearing. Some hide beneath bamboo groves, others playfully interact with visitors, and some engage in playful antics with one another. Visitors are even allowed to ride on the tortoises’ backs for photos, making the experience especially enjoyable. These are land tortoises, cared for and managed by dedicated staff. The island has several walking paths with zero pollution sources.                        There is only one “restaurant” on the island, which serves food for the tortoises and the staff. The island is completely free of litter, as strict fines are imposed for any violations. Visitors strictly adhere to the rules, and not a single piece of trash can be seen. There are also a few souvenir shops selling items made from tortoise shells, and no one leaves empty-handed.

　　 

　　 

　　 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania