Hotels in Bagamoyo

Bagamoyo: Tanzania's Oldest Colonial Port on the Indian Ocean

Bagamoyo sits on the Tanzanian coast 75 km north of Dar es Salaam, where the Kingani River meets the Indian Ocean. Founded as an Arab trading post in the late 18th century, it became East Africa's most active slave and ivory transit point before German colonial administration shifted the regional capital to Dar es Salaam in 1891. The Old Town retains carved Swahili doorways, the 1868 Holy Ghost Mission — where explorer David Livingstone's body rested before transport to England in 1874 — and the ruins of Kaole, a 13th-century Shirazi settlement 3 km south.

Where to Stay

Most hotels concentrate along the beachfront north of the fishing harbour and around the Old Town district. Properties range from simple guesthouses on Customs Road to mid-range lodges with direct access to the white-sand shoreline. The Bagamoyo Arts College (TaSUBa) campus attracts researchers and artists, drawing a niche academic travel segment year-round.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Dalla-dalla minibuses depart Mwenge terminal in Dar es Salaam regularly; journey takes 1.5–2 hours depending on the ferry crossing at Bomas.
• Best season: June–October brings dry southeast winds and cooler temperatures; avoid April–May long rains.
• Entry: Bagamoyo is on Tanzania's mainland — no additional permit required beyond a standard Tanzania tourist visa.
• Currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS); most small guesthouses do not accept cards.