Tanga

One of the largest Tanzanian cities, Tanga is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean bordering Kenya. This ancient city was ruled by the Portuguese and was an infamous slave trade hub till the 18th-century. It then started prospering under the Germans’ rule and is now an important port.

This sunny oceanside beauty of a town is marked with untouched beaches, beautiful lagoons, and coral reefs, making it one of the most picturesque places to see in Tanzania. Its lands are covered in miles of ancient forests surrounded by the soaring Usambara Mountains and their lush valleys.

The highlight here is the ancient Amboni Caves located amidst tulip and fig thickets and can only be explored in the torchlight. For an off-track adventure, take a long relaxing dip in the medicinal waters of the Galonos hot springs. Explore the natural habitat of African bush elephants, blue wildebeests, Dik-Diks, etc. at the Saadani National Park.

Those who love heritage and history must explore the 15th- century ruins of Shrizai tombs and the European cemetery here. You can also enjoy a daylong bike tour that will take you through the narrow lanes of the city where the beautiful ancient mansions and Arab-style buildings are hidden.

Tanga is hot and humid throughout the year. January-February and June-August are the low rainfall months and the best time to visit.