See the very best of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit on an action-packed 3-day trip from Dar es Salaam Town! After enjoying dramatic coastal scenery along Dares Salaam City, visit Bagamoyo Township for a sensitive inside look at Swahili life in the town’s community. View esteemed Bagamoyo Dhow construction at South of Dar es Salaam near Saadani and Wami River, and spend your final day relaxing in Saadani or scuba-diving in Bagamoyo – the choice is yours!
Tour Highlights
Head to the Southern Circuit’s Indian Ocean Coast to explore the vibrant fishing village of Bagamoyo as well as some must-see spots on the majestic Bagamoyo Beach – namely Lazy Lagoon and the German Colonial Building. Jutting out into Indian Ocean, these beautifully dramatic coastal points showcase breathtaking vistas of the ocean against a backdrop of rugged cliffs. Spend time exploring these places independently before staying overnight in Bagamoyo.
On your second day, experience a bit of Tanzanian life. An integral part of the Southern Circuit’s culture comes from the numerous township residencies that are dotted around the region. These largely underdeveloped towns were once discriminated places, reserved for slave Trade activities only, until the end of the slave trade. While still facing undeniable problems today, the townships are a far sight away from Slave Trade’s dark days, and there’s a sense of hope about them. With a community leader, you’ll visit one of Southern Circuit most vibrant townships – Bagamoyo – to experience a real sense of community demonstrated by the Swahili people who live there.
After a sensitive look at this fascinating township, head to the fertile, Saadani National Park which is the perfect union of beach and bush. During visits of the park you will discover a large population of hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and many other large bird species.
Your 3-day tour finishes with activities in Saadani National Park! Spend the morning relaxing in Saadani, a town well-known as the best place to spot the Big Five, or try to watch the endangered animals in Wami River.
Please see the Itinerary below for details on each day of the tour.
Itinerary
Breakfast is included both mornings; all other meals are at own expense and can be enjoyed during free time. Your guide will happily share recommendations for local cafes and restaurants each day.
Day 1: Bagamoyo – Lazy Lagoon
Leave the city of Dar es Salaam behind and head off by luxury minibus to Bagamoyo, a gorgeous coastal town, roughly a three hours drive away. You’ll have time at leisure here, so either relax, soaking up the town’s timeless beauty, or perhaps take a cruise to nearby Lazy Lagoon to see the beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Your tour continues to Bagamoyo Towns, passing along the famous Bagamoyo’s Historical Monuments. On the way, stop at Bagamoyo Cultural Exhibition, a cultural center preserving the culture of Swahili peoples.
Overnight: 3-star Paradise Holiday Resort or 4-star Livingstone Club in Bagamoyo
Day 2: Bagamoyo Township – Dhow Sailboat Building Center (B)
After breakfast, meet your guide and set off to the township of Bagamoyo Beach to experience a taste of beach life. With a community leader to show you around, you’ll get an insider’s view of local life and learn about the Swahili people’s Civilization.
Hop back on your mini bus and visit some of the popular Historical Sites that are scattered around the Bagamoyo towns. You’ll have time to spend at leisure, so perhaps find a place for lunch (own expense)
Overnight: 3-star Paradise Holiday Resort or 4-star Livingstone Club in Bagamoyo.
Day 3: Saadani National Park– Wami River (B)
Either rise at the crack of dawn to Saadani National Park or in Wami River, or depart slightly later to visit the popular Saadani National Park and empties into the Indian Ocean, host a large population of hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and other many large species. Having given your guide your preference the day before, you’ll pack your belongings and head off by coach.
Visiting Wami River? Elephants have been rumored to be seen bathing and playing on Saadani’s Wami rivers and beaches, especially in the early hours of the morning. After approximately 1.5 hours on board your mini bus, you’ll have three hours to see the town independently. A good choice for visitors in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar who don’t have a time for longer safaris to visit more remote parks around the country! Saadani is easily visited for a day trip or over a weekend.