If you are looking to experience Africa off-the-beaten path, Pangani is one of Tanzania’s best kept secrets. Located 55km from Tanga, this picturesque coastal oasis boasts pristine, palm fringed beaches, colourful coral reefs, crystal-clear rivers and lush mangrove forests while the town itself is infused with a long history and rich culture. Pangani was once a former hub of Swahili trade with Africa and the blend of Swahili, Arab and Colonial influences can still be seen here. Add deliciously warm year-round weather and you have a hidden gem worthy of exploring.
Pangani is a peaceful and compact town, making it a delight to discover on foot. Wandering through the old narrow streets offers the chance to take an intriguing step back in time and marvel at the beautifully preserved Swahili and colonial architecture, some of which is over 200 years old. While the buildings are slowly crumbling against the monsoon winds the old German administrative boma still stands and the former prison, painted a fading ochre red, overlooks over the river’s tranquil waters. You will see the slave market, old port and slave routes, historic mosques and traditional homes and if you are looking for the perfect souvenir, you’ll also find a variety of traditional goods being sold by local artisans like hand crafted carpets, woven baskets, wooden carvings and paintings.
This tropical idyll is the perfect spot to soak up the sun on sugar white sands and swim in warm turquoise waters where endangered turtles breed and vibrant coral reefs teem with tropical fish. You can also enjoy beachside barbecues in the evenings offering the chance to tuck into delicious fresh seafood and enjoy cocktails as the sun sets over the sparkling Indian Ocean.
Saadani National Park encompasses the former Saadani game reserve, Wami River and Zaraninge coastal forest and is the only wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania bordering the sea which means you’ll experience both marine and mainland wildlife safari excitement.
Game drives and walking safaris in Saadani offers the chance to see an abundance of wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, waterbucks, reedbucks, hartebeests, wildebeests, red duikers, greater kudus, elands, sable antelopes, yellow baboons and velvet monkeys.
This fascinating setting also attracts herds of up to 30 elephants as well as lions, leopards, spotted hyenas and black-backed jackals.
Treat yourself to a boat safari at the delta of the mangrove-lined Wami River and the ocean, to get up close and personal with pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles or head to Madete beach to visit the green turtle breeding site where you can also marvel at humpback whales and dolphins from the vantage point of the beach. The climate here is coastal, hot and humid making it a delight to take a dip in the Indian Ocean straight after your safari.
Immerse yourself in the heady aromas of spice on a tour of one of the local spice farms and learn about the cultivation and preparation of spices. Tanzania is world-famous for its treasure trove of exotic spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Spice farm tours also offer the chance to tantalise your taste buds with an explosion of local flavours, from aromatic curries to spice-infused teas, these culinary delights are packed with freshly harvested spices.
Traditional dhow sailing is an absolute "must-do" activity when visiting Pangani. The dhow is a common type of canoe with deep roots in the coastal cultures of East Africa and the most tranquil way to experience the area’s natural scenic beauty. Enjoy a majestic African sunset as you glide across the Indian Ocean learning about the life and traditions of the local people. If it’s the right season, you might even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins, majestic sea turtles and humpback whales.
This enchanting island is uninhabited and boasts an underwater wonderland teeming with a kaleidoscopic array of marine biodiversity making it the ultimate location for water enthusiasts. With 35 distinct and beautifully intricate coral reefs, often referred to as the ‘rainforests of the sea’ and over 425 species of fish, these crystal-clear waters are ideal for activities like swimming, kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. Add soft white sands gently lapped by the Indian Ocean and you have a breathtaking setting to spend long, lazy days soaking up the sun.
Pangani is a captivating tropical hideaway, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist hot spots in Tanzania. If you are looking for peace and tranquillity you are guaranteed to enjoy the relaxed feel of the town, its balmy beaches, and the many wonders just waiting to be discovered. If Pangani sounds like your kind of holiday destination give us call on UK 01233 80 27 27 or visit our website www.bestofsouthafricatravel.co.uk
How to make the most of every moment?
Local knowledge makes a huge difference! When I asked Ash at Best of South Africa to give me some guidance on how to make the most of our trip to Cape Town and Franschhoek wine valley, I felt sure she would be able to send me in the right direction. It never occurred to me that she would organise our …
