the COASTAL circuit
Heading north by road for some 350 km from Dar es Salaam, visitors can reach Tanga port. There are also flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar. The town’s 19th century buildings display both Indian and colonial influences. Further afield, a popular attraction is limestone Amboni Caves, covering 15 sq km.
Pangani The sleepy town of Pangani lies at the mouth of Tanzania’s second-largest river. This former slave port has a few crumbling relics of its painful history, not least the harsh era of colonial rule by imperial Germany. Tour operators can advise on cultural tourist programmes and town walks. On either side of the town there is a choice of accommodation along pristine beaches. Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts should head 13 km south-east of Pangani to discover the Maziwe Island Marine Reserve.
wildlife and heritage The Mafia Archipelago, 130 km south of Dar es Salaam, is easily reached by air from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. This former slave-trading centre has historical ruins linked to the days of Arab and German colonial rule. Visitors can take a trail to see the giant Comoros fruit bats and enjoy superb birdwatching. The Mafia Island Marine Park, covering 822 sq km of reefs, coast and mangroves, is an important nesting site for hawksbill and green turtles. Mafia is famous for its snorkelling and scuba diving and has dive centres in the exclusive accommodation around
The Kilwa Peninsula
Chole Bay on the main island. Other hotel options are available
can be accessed by air
around the main town of Kilindoni.
from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Mafia. The beach hotels near the small town of Kilwa Masoko provide a convenient base for snorkelling, diving or exploring the Swahili ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani island. back to the 14th century, this United Nations World Heritage Site can be accessed by traditional dhow or motorboat. Other ruins can be found on nearby islands. The town of Kilwa Kivinje flourished in the 19th century as a slaving centre and finally came under German rule. There are ruins from colonial times around the small settlement. Further south, Lindi, Mtwara and Mikidani offer more opportunities to explore the heritage and marine attractions of the coast. The Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park is ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
41