Tanga is a quiet port town on Tanzania's northern coast, a long way from the busy resort strips of Zanzibar. Few tourists come here, and that is its appeal: a slower, more local stretch of coast with history and quiet beaches.
Nearby attractions include the Amboni limestone caves and the small coastal town of Pangani, with old Swahili and colonial buildings that reflect its past as a trading port, including the slave and ivory trade. Offshore reefs offer snorkelling and dhow trips.
Tanga is a niche add-on rather than a core stop, best for travellers who have already seen Zanzibar or want somewhere less developed.
Coastal plain, mangroves and sandy beaches, with limestone hills inland around Amboni and the Usambara Mountains further away.
Tanga is a coastal and cultural destination rather than a wildlife one.
Guided tour of the Amboni caves
Historic walk in Pangani
Beach time on quieter, less developed shores
Dhow trips and snorkelling
Expect a simple, local experience with fewer facilities than Zanzibar. Distances are long and roads slower, so this suits travellers with time.
The drier months either side of the long rains (roughly March to May) and the short rains (around November) are most comfortable.
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Around 3-4 hours by road north of Dar es Salaam, or by road from Kilimanjaro International Airport. There is no major international air link.
A small number of coastal hotels and guesthouses with a simple, local feel.
Fewer tourist facilities than Zanzibar
Malaria-risk area - take medical advice
Best combined with time elsewhere in Tanzania
It is far quieter and less developed. That suits some travellers, but there is less choice of hotels and activities.
If you are interested in coastal history or want a quiet beach away from resorts. Otherwise, it is optional.
Tell us your dates and we'll build an itinerary that includes it.
