Pangani

Often overlooked by travelers, Pangani is a wonderful discovery! The quiet beaches of the mainland in Pangani are not easy to reach, but it is worth the effort for those who seek peace and tranquility in a real hideaway of tropical beauty rather than the hustle and bustle of the noisy and expensive islands. This tiny village is about 50 km south of Tanga and 170 km south of Mombasa and is still an untouched paradise.

History of Pangani

Archaeologists have found the remains of small 15th century settlements on the cliffs north of Pangani. But the city only became known in the 19th century. It became an important point on the caravan routes under nominal Zanzibari rule from Lake Tanganyika. It was a major export point for slaves and ivory, and one of the largest ports between Bagamoyo and Mombasa. Sisal and copra plantations were established in the area. And several European missions and exploratory journeys to the interior began from here.

By the end of the 19th century, the focus had shifted to Tanga and Dar es Salaam. Pangani again faded into anonymity. From the 1860s onwards, large sugar and coconut plantations were established here. These were worked by slave laborers as Pangani was also an important centre of the slave trade.

Today the sleepy, dilapidated town makes for an intriguing step back into history. Residential buildings along the main street of Pangani give at least an impression of its history, as they feature both Arab and European architecture.

Why visit Pangani?

Pangani is a quiet place to rest and relax. It lays on the Indian Ocean and offers many things to do on your visit. It is a nice place to enjoy the beach, to go on snorkeling or diving excursions. Most of the lodges offer windsurfing, kayaking and dhow rides as well as fishing trips. Longer trips such as the one to Zanzibar Island, a cruise on the Pangani River or possibly even a trip further south to the recently demarcated Saadani national park can be arranged.