Dar es Salaam , Tanzania

Bagamoyo Historical Tour - Everyday

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(14 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Bagamoyo is a magical town fringed with amazing beaches, Mangrove forest, unforgettable historical memories as well as various traditional lifestyle, located just 65kms north of Dar es Salaam on the coast opposite Zanzibar, it was the formal capital of the German East Africa. It derived the name from the word Bwagamoyo means “here I throw down my heart” reflecting the desperation and despair of the “broken heart” captives whose voyage into the unknown world began here. The town was the most important trading center pot of the east central coast of Africa, in the late 19th century its history was influenced by Indian and Arab traders, the German colonial government and by Christian missionaries.
The visit will include; First German East Africa State House in East Africa, Old Fort, Kaole Ruins, Catholic Museum, Crocodile Farm, Old Port in East Africa, the First Cross erected by the Missionary on the coast of East Africa, Dr. Livingstone’s Church, the fish market, etc.

Available options

Bagamoyo Historical Tour - Everyday

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

A prison where slaves were kept before herded through underground tunnels to waiting dhows at the Harbor, where their journey unknown world began.

It is one of the many historical building found in Bagamoyo and used to be an old state house that was built by the Germans at the end of the 19th century, with the sole purpose of being a residence for its leaders in the area. It was only used by them for a few years before their capital was moved to then Mzizima or currently known as Dar es Salaam, due to the shallow water depth of the Bagamoyo port.

The kaole ruin is a site that holds the remains of the first settlement of the Arab foreigners in Bagamoyo as well as an archaeological remains excavation site. Some of the structures at the site include houses, mosques, water wells and graves of the foreigners that died there. Kaole was originally settled in the 8th century as a trading town. It is a small town and archaeological site in Tanzania, located southern eastern of Bagamoyo town on the shores of Indian Ocean. At the area there are old stone ruins dating to a period between the 13th century and the 16th century and consist of two mosques and 30 tombs

The original Holy Ghost Church was built in 1872, is reportedly to be the oldest church on the mainland of East Africa as sister's house and part of the Holy Ghost Mission, one of the first Christian missionaries in East Africa. In 1874, David Livingstone was interred for a night at the Holy Ghost Mission. The Livingstone Tower, a part of the original church, is named in his honor.
The Sisters’ House, built in 1876, was converted into the Roman Catholic Mission Museum and has many sentimentally touching exhibits of photographs of slaves tied together with chains to their necks, exhibits of the history of Missionary work and conversion to Christianity, books and booklets on prehistory of Bagamoyo, Indian and Arab door frames, and shackles, chains and whips used during slave trade, and many local wood craft.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

13 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and its commercial hub, offering a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful coastal scenery. As the gateway to Zanzibar and the southern circuits of Tanzania, it combines modern urban life with Swahili coastal charm.

Top Attractions

Coco Beach

A popular beach in Dar es Salaam with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local seafood.

Beach Half day Free (Food and activities extra)

Mbudya Island

A small island located just off the coast of Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature Full day Moderate (Boat ride and activities)

Dar es Salaam National Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Tanzania, including exhibits on natural history, ethnography, and the country's struggle for independence.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (Entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali and Nyama Choma

Ugali is a staple food made from maize flour, often served with grilled meat (Nyama Choma).

Main Course Vegetarian options available (Ugali with vegetables)

Pilau

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Mishkaki

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salsa).

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving Island hopping Beach relaxation Spa treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours and fishing excursions Spice tours in Zanzibar

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Dar es Salaam is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Julius Nyerere International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Dar es Salaam Central Station

By bus

Ubungo Bus Terminal, Tegeta Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Dala Dala are minibuses that are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They can be crowded and chaotic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kariakoo Oyster Bay

Day trips

Zanzibar Island

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day or overnight

Zanzibar offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures.

Bagamoyo

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day

A historic town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its role in the slave trade and as a center for Swahili culture.

Festivals

Dar es Salaam International Film Festival (DIFIFF) • July Sauti za Busara • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation.
Visit the Kariakoo Market early in the morning for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Book ferry tickets to Zanzibar in advance, especially during peak season.