Pangani

Pangani is a small Swahili town situated about 55 kilometers south of Tanga near some sand clean beaches. The town derive its name from the River passing through the area. It believed to be one of the many dhow ports along the coast. During the Shirazi era, occupation around Pangani gathered momentum and the Pangani River assumed an important role as a transport channel to the interior.

Pangani had become a terminus of the caravan route from Lake Tanganyika by late 19th century, and a major export pint for slaves and ivory. Sisal and copra plantations were established in the area while several European missions and exploratory journeys to the interior began from here. At the end of the 19th century, focus had shifted to Tanga and Dar es Salaam and Pangani rapidly declined.

The most interesting area of town is within three blocks of the river, where one can see some carved doorways and buildings from the German colonial era. One of the main attractions is the Pangani River, which hosts diverse birdlife, as well as population of crocodiles and other animals.

Pangani Beaches: Pangani town is famous for its excellent beaches to the north and those to the south around Ushongo. The infrastructures have been improved around the beaches in the north or south of the town. Maziwe Island, a small sand island and nature reserve is an ideal place for snorkeling although it can only be visited during low tide.

Amboni caves: These limestone caves are estimated to extend from about 30 kilometers to slightly over 200 kilometers although visitors can only see a small part of them The Kenyan Mau Mau freedom fighters are said t have used the caves as a hideout to confront the British colonial rulers in the 1950s. The caves are located about 8 kilometers North West of Tanga off the Horohoro-Mombasa road. It’s important that prior arrangements to be done.