PANGANI BEACH
The name Pangani stems from the river that runs through the northern part of the historical town of Pangani, which is believed to have been established before the 6th Century BC as a coastal dhow port. Later it became a station on the caravan route from Lake Tanganyika for exporting slaves and ivory. Several historical sites in and around the town serve as reminders of the strong Arabic influence and later the German and British colonial era in Tanganyika. The town served as a port when sisal plantations were set up during the colonial period, before the Tanga Harbour was constructed. Nowadays it is mainly a fishing town with coconut palms providing welcome shade on the quiet beaches.
Pangani is situated about 50km south of Tanga at the mouth of the Pangani river which flows from the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. There are several attractions in this area:
- The Pangani Falls is a waterfall that provides electricity for Tanga, Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Moshi.
- Take a boat safari on the Pangani River which hosts birds and crocodiles.
- Maziwi Island has become submerged due to environmental destruction and the effect of the global climate change. It is a nature reserve which provides snorkeling opportunities and a dolphin tour.
- Take a walking tour in the historical town to see some of the old buildings which are more than 200 years old.
- Visit to a former slave labour camp and slave market site.
Pangani is close to the Saadani National Park (especially on the Mkwaja side) which is the only place where one can see wildlife on the beach.
Tripadvisor Reviews
You should always book where you feel in good hands. And that’s guaranteed to be the case at Long Way Expeditions as we are a fully registered company with 5-star TripAdvisor reviews from 100% of previous guests.
As a family-owned small business that prioritises slow travel and personal connections, we’re so proud to say all our guests go home satisfied.