Bagamoyo is a must-see destination for cultural tourism in Tanzania.
This former capital of German East Africa, founded at the end of the 18th century, was a major centre of maritime trade in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Its economy was based on the transport of fish, salt and rubber. In the first half of the 19th century, these goods were replaced by ivory and slaves, which were transported to the island of Zanzibar. Today, the local population lives mainly from agriculture, fishing and livestock.
There are a number of sites where you can immerse yourself in the history of this very special coastal town:
The Kaole archaeological site bears witness to the passage of the Kaole colony dating back to the 18th century on the lands of Bagamoyo. Remnants of the oldest settlement in the coastal region of East Africa, the Kaole ruins are one of the places steeped in history not to be missed during a day’s visit. The site includes an ancient mosque, a house and two tombs dating back to the 18th century. This mosque is considered to be the oldest in the country and one of the oldest in East Africa.
The Catholic museum in the north of the town reveals another facet of Bagamoyo’s history. In this small museum you can learn more about the slave trade, the history of Dr Livingstone and the missionaries, as well as discovering Tanzania’s first church and a large collection of objects linked to Bagamoyo’s past.
This small museum dedicated to the slave trade is housed in a historic building, a former guest house used by slave traders in the 19th century. Here you will discover an exhibition of objects associated with the slave and ivory trade.
A change of scenery on the white sandy beaches lined with coconut palms of this town rich in history. Bagamoyo is a cultural destination that also has many seaside attractions. It’s time to relax and swim on these beautiful stretches of white sand along the Indian Ocean. This relaxing break with your feet in the water is also an opportunity to observe the daily life of the local fishermen.
Saadani National Park offers a special approach to safaris in Tanzania. It is one of the few wildlife sanctuaries located on the shores of the Indian Ocean. The coastal climate that Saadani National Park enjoys gives it a unique environment. A protected area that stands out not only for its landscapes, but above all for the wide variety of continental and marine species it harbours. Because of its particular location, its vegetation and its wild aspect, the observation of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes or antelopes is less easy than in the parks of the north which have important populations of animals. Saadani National Park offers a more confidential safari experience, off the beaten track, for a memorable trip. Located 44km north of Bagamoyo, it is accessible by car and also by boat via the Wami River. It’s the perfect opportunity to get up close to the hippos and crocodiles that call Saadani home.
Artisanal fishing in the Wami and Ruvu estuaries is one of Bagamoyo’s major economic activities, along with seaweed and shellfish farming. This way of life, based on fishing and farming, is an integral part of the local culture. Make the most of your stay in Bagamoyo to immerse yourself in this world by visiting a fishing village, sampling local produce in a traditional restaurant and sharing a special moment with the locals.
The architecture of Bagamoyo’s old town has many influences. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you’ll come across carved wooden doors typical of Arab architecture, as well as German colonial houses. The old post office, the country’s first primary school, the hanging tower, the art market, the old mosques, the fish market and the Caravan Serail museum are among the buildings not to be missed on your visit to Bagamoyo’s old town.
A veritable sanctuary for marine life, the Mafia Island reserve is a must for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. This exceptional marine park near Zanzibar is certainly the richest in the Indian Ocean. Coral reefs, colourful fish, heavenly beaches, turquoise-blue lagoons, sea turtles – an excursion to the Mafia Island marine reserve is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
For the more sporty, a stay in Bagamoyo can be combined with a trek up the slopes of the Usambara Mountains. This exceptional natural site is still little-known in Tanzania, despite the beauty of the panoramas it offers. An adventure trek off the beaten track to discover the local flora and fauna!
Would you like to spend one or more nights in Bagamoyo to discover this striking natural and cultural heritage? There are several accommodation options available. Here is our selection:
At Off Road, a local agency, we can help you organise your tailor-made trip to Tanzania. We’ll design itineraries to meet your needs and provide you with a unique experience, in complete safety! Call on our team of passionate professionals to create your seaside holiday in Bagamoyo and your safari tour in Tanzania. We offer an immersive, authentic and environmentally friendly approach to an unforgettable safari in Tanzania.
With an average annual temperature of 30°C, Bagamoyo is a coastal Tanzanian town with a very pleasant climate. We recommend that you visit during the dry season, which runs from June to October. November, March and April are characterised by heavy rainfall.
There are 2 options for getting to Bagamoyo:
Bagamoyo was the destination for traders and slaves travelling across the country, often from Lake Tanganyika and sometimes from neighbouring countries, to reach the shore with cargo destined for Zanzibar.
The population of Bagamoyo, like much of the country, lives mainly from farming, fishing and livestock rearing.
In terms of architecture, Bagamoyo is known for its unusual gateways, often featuring intricate Arab-influenced carvings. You can also see German colonial houses.
It is also an interesting stop-off point on a trip to Tanzania to visit the archaeological site and ruins of Kaole.
The Kaole ruins are the remains of the oldest settlement in East Africa’s coastal region. Located 5km south of Bagamoyo, they attract many visitors every year. These ruins date back to the 13th century and were once home to the King of Oman.
Nearby are an ancient mosque, a house and two tombs dating back to the 13th century. This mosque is considered to be the oldest in the country and one of the oldest in East Africa.
To the north of the town, around 2km away, you can also find a small museum dedicated to the history of the area. It tells the story of the slave trade, missionaries and life in general.
The same complex has a chapel where Livingstone’s body was laid to rest before being taken to Stone Town on the way to Westminster Abbey.
From
$ 1940
/ PEOPLE
Manyara / Ngorongoro Crater / Tarangire / Arusha / Zanzibar
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Observe Tanzanian wildlife and meet the local people
Discover Zanzibar, its coral reefs and mythical spices!
From
$ 2620
/ PEOPLE
Manyara National Park / Ngorongoro Crater / Ndutu / Serengeti National Park / Tarangire
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Walk in Manyara National Park
Visit the village of Mto Wa Mbu
Track the big five and capture the best photo!
From
$ 3450
/ PEOPLE
Arusha / Tarangire / Manyara / Ngrongoro / Ndutu / Serengeti / Natron
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Observing the great migration
Meeting with locals and village visit.
