Tanzania's extensive Indian Ocean coastline offers travelers the opportunity to choose from many destinations in both mainland Tanzania and the islands of Zanzibar. Although the most obvious attractions are the idyllic white sand beaches and world-class scuba diving, Tanzania's most historic towns and museums are also located on the coast. The coastal culture is distinct from the Arusha and Kilimanjaro cultures, and any coastal trip should include a visit to the Swahili towns of either Stonetown or Bagamoyo.
Tanzania's most famous coastal destination is Zanzibar's main island of Unguja, which has numerous resorts and hotels both on the beach and in Stonetown, the islands capital. The pages below detail Duma Explorers top four recommendations for coastal visits. While Zanzibar's Unguja is the most developed for tourism, visitors wishing to escape the crowds should consider visiting either Pemba or Bagamoyo. A visit to Pangani should be combined with a trip to Amani Nature Reserve, Tanzania's most beautiful cloud forest. Duma Explorer arranges beach hotels, flights, diving packages, and ground transportation.
BEACH DESTINATIONS:
Bagamoyo, Tanzania's oldest town, is Tanzania's seventh world heritage site. Highlights include the Kaole Ruins, the remnants of two mosques and several tombs; and the Bagamoyo Art College (Chuo cha Sanaa), the most famous art institute in Tanzania. More about Bagamoyo...
Pangani is a s a small Swahili town in the center of a virtually undiscovered stretch of coast in Tanga Region. The main attraction of Pangani is the pristine coastline to the north and south of Pangani town. Any visit to Pangani should be combined with a side trip to Amani Nature Reserve, possibly Tanzania's most beautiful cloud forest. More about Pangani...
Pemba, the northernmost island in the Pemba archipelago, offers pristine white sand beaches and amazing diving experiences with lush coral reefs and many kinds of fish. Misali Island, one of its offshore islands, is another favorite destination. The Misali Island Marine Conservation Area uses tourism proceeds to protect the marine ecosystem and support the local communities that depend on the ocean's resources for their livelihoods. More about Pemba...
Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is one of Africa's best-known destinations. The islands of Zanzibar are surrounded by transparent, blue-green waters, and are bordered by miles of white-sand beaches. Zanzibar, a spot of paradise in the Indian Ocean, offers world-class diving and a rich culture. Zanzibar is made up of the two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, and is surrounded by several other small islands. More about the main island Unguja, which will be referred to as Zanzibar...
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