More Details on Pangani
Pangani is 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. There are also several attractions in and around Pangani that can be visited during day trips. Although many of Pangani's visitors are ex-patriates and wealthy Tanzanians, there are several beautiful hotels around Pangani town just waiting for tourism to pick up. For now, Pangani is the perfect beach destination for travelers seeking to escape the crowded resorts and aggressive street vendors in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Although Pangani is more difficult to reach than Dar and Zanzibar, travelers who are ready for a quiet and relaxing visit to the beach might want to check this new Duma Explorer recommended destination.
Pangani is a convenient beach destination for visitors to Lushoto, Mkomazi Game Reserve and the Pare Mountains. Pangani is approximately a three-hour drive from these destinations making it less out of the way, and cheaper, than visiting Dar or Zanzibar.
Activities in and around Pangani include:
Pangani River:
Pangani River, once an important transport channel for slaves and ivory, is now seldom used as a means of transportation from Tanzania's interior to the coast. Boat trips can be arranged up the river to observe the abundant birdlife and riverine ecosystem. Crocodiles are sometimes seen along the river and a trip up the river offers an opportunity to view Tanzanian village life.
Maziwe Island: Maziwe Island is a sand island located 10km offshore from Pangani. Maziwe Island and the surrounding coral reef is a nature reserve, and snorkeling and diving trips can be arranged to the island.
Snorkeling: Dhow trips can be arranged from hotels to visit offshore coral reefs. Some of the reefs have been recently placed under protection so it is possible to see many species of colorful fish and live corals. Snorkeling equipment is available.
Sandbars: All-day visits are available from lodges to various offshore sandbars. Organize a picnic lunch through your hotel or bring your own. The sandbars offer beautiful views of the coast and are often surrounded by reefs which are great for snorkeling. It is possible to combine snorkeling and sandbar trips.
Amani Nature Reserve: Amani, once a botanical garden, is located in the Usambara Mountains approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Pangani. A visit to Amani offers an opportunity to hike through beautiful montane forests viewing forest animals, flowers and plants. Amani is part of the Eastern Arc mountain range which stretches from southern Kenya to southern Tanzania. The range has been listed by Conservation International as one of the world's twenty hotspots of biodiversity and there have been many efforts in recent years to protect the range's forests. The Usambara Mountains are possibly the most diverse mountains in the Eastern Arc Range and Amani is a must see for those interested in botany. There are hundreds of endemic plant species and several reptiles, amphibians and birds unique to the Usambaras. One or two day trips to Amani can be arranged from Pangani.
Recommended Lodges: High-end
Argovia Tented Lodge: This luxurious permanent tented lodge, established in 2000, is situated on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is four kilometers north of Pangani and offers magnificent views, excellent service, and exquisitely decorated surroundings. The lodge combines traditional Arabic style with modern comfort. Argovia's private tents are beautifully decorated and it is one of the few places along the coast that offers air-conditioned rooms. You can relax by the pool or walk the short trail to the beach below. It is possible to arrange boat trips to Maziwe Island or the Pangani River.
Emayani Beach Lodge: This lodge, made up of several thatched bungalows, is set among coconut trees south of the Pangani River. It is the perfect destination for those wanting to wake up in the morning and step onto a white sandy beach. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and delicious food of the open-air dining room while interacting with the dynamic staff. Emayani offers trips to Maziwe Island, Pangani Town and Saadani Game Park.
Recommended Lodges: Low-end
Coco Beach: This low-cost lodge has several campsites and thatched bungalows. Visitors can bring their own food, tents and stoves to Coco Beach or can choose to stay in very reasonably priced bungalows. Coco Beach neighbors Emayani Beach Lodge and is situated on a white sandy beach in a coconut grove. You can organize day trips to surrounding areas through Coco Beach or Emayani.
Peponi Beach: Peponi is situated south of the Pangani River, in a shady grove of trees along the beach. Covered campsites are available, as well as thatched banda accommodations. Relax on cots by the beach or play darts in the boat bar. Explore the nearby mangroves or watch the crabs run along the beach. Organize day trips with the resort.
Approximate Travel Times to Pangani
From Arusha: Six hours
From Moshi: Five hours
From Dar: Four hours
From Lushoto: Three hours
© 2005 Duma Explorer