The experience
A journey to remember.
Travel back in time and discover the fascinating history of Tanzania's ancient Swahili coast on this 3-day journey to Kilwa.
- Duration
- 3 days · 2 nights
- Destination
- Kilwa
- Starting point
- Dar es Salaam
- Places covered
- Dar es Salaam
- Kilwa Masoko
- Kilwa Kisiwani
- Songo Mnara
- Kilwa coastline
Your travel party
Journey prices
| Travellers | Per person | Group total |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $920 | $1,840 |
| 4 | $630 | $2,520 |
| 6 | $540 | $3,240 |
The package quotation depends on traveller numbers, dates and confirmed arrangements. Existing published group-size prices apply where shown. Your written quote confirms the final room, meal, transport and activity inclusions.
Our team will confirm availability, inclusions and your final quote for your travel dates.
Moments to look forward to
Journey highlights
- Explore Kilwa Kisiwani Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover its remarkable medieval ruins.
- Visit the historic Great Fort and discover the island's fascinating Portuguese-era history.
- Explore Songo Mnara Island and its ancient palaces, mosques and historic settlements.
- Relax along Kilwa's beautiful beaches and enjoy a peaceful coastal atmosphere.
- Experience the underwater beauty of Kilwa through optional snorkelling activities.
- Enjoy sport fishing and discover the traditional coastal fishing experience.
About this journey
Travel back in time and discover the fascinating history of Tanzania's ancient Swahili coast on this 3-day journey to Kilwa. Once an important centre of Indian Ocean trade, Kilwa flourished through commercial connections with Arabia, India and China. Its historical significance is preserved in the remarkable ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage property inscribed in 1981, explore ancient palaces, mosques, historic settlements and impressive coral-stone architecture while learning about the region's rich cultural heritage. Beyond the historical excursions, enjoy boat trips between the islands, beautiful coastal scenery, beach relaxation and optional marine activities. This experience offers a memorable combination of history, culture, island exploration and coastal relaxation.
One day at a time
Your journey unfolds.
Day 1Dar es Salaam - Kilwa Masoko
Places visited: Dar es Salaam - Kilwa Masoko
Depart from Dar es Salaam in a luxury Alphard for Kilwa Masoko, approximately 320 km away, with an estimated journey time of five hours. Upon arrival, check in at Kilwa Beach Lodge and enjoy lunch at the hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing along the beach and enjoying the peaceful coastal surroundings. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel, followed by a bonfire and an overnight stay.
- Stay
- Kilwa Beach Lodge
- Meals
- Lunch and Dinner
Day 2Kilwa Kisiwani & Songo Mnara Historical Excursion
Places visited: Kilwa Kisiwani & Songo Mnara Historical Excursion
After breakfast, depart for a full-day historical exploration of Kilwa's remarkable heritage islands. Morning: Kilwa Kisiwani Island Take a boat to Kilwa Kisiwani Island, a UNESCO-listed historical site. Explore its remarkable medieval monuments, including: Great Mosque, Great Fort, Malindi Mosque, Chittick House and Husuni Kubwa Palace. Discover the island's rich history and learn about its important role in the ancient Indian Ocean trading network and enjoy a local fish lunch on Kilwa Kisiwani. Afternoon: Songo Mnara Island Continue by boat to Songo Mnara Island, another important part of the UNESCO World Heritage property. Explore the historic remains, including: Sultanate Palace, Mangrove path, Sultan’s office, Watchtower, Friday Mosque, Great House, Coconut plantations. Enjoy time at the lagoon for swimming before returning to Kilwa Beach Lodge. Freshen up, enjoy dinner, relax around the bonfire and spend the night at the lodge.
- Stay
- Kilwa Beach Lodge
- Meals
- Breakfast and lunch.
Day 3Kilwa Beach Activities - Departure to Dar es Salaam
Places visited: Kilwa Beach Activities - Departure to Dar es Salaam
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before spending the morning experiencing Kilwa's coastal environment. Choose from beach activities such as snorkelling and sport fishing, depending on availability and sea conditions. Enjoy lunch at Songo Mnara Island as indicated in the original programme. Afterwards, freshen up and prepare for your return journey to Dar es Salaam. Depart Kilwa by private luxury Alphard, bringing your historical and coastal adventure to an end.
- Meals
- Breakfast and Lunch
Rest between adventures
Accommodation plan
Your written proposal confirms the final properties, room categories and meal arrangements for your travel dates. Named properties are planned stays, subject to availability.
- Nights 1 to 2
ComfortKilwa Masoko
Kilwa Beach Lodge
A planned overnight stop in Kilwa Masoko for your journey. Your personal quotation confirms availability, the room category, meal arrangements and any suitable alternative before booking.
A closer look
Photographs of Kilwa Beach Lodge
Included in your journey
- Return ground transportation from Dar es Salaam in a luxury Alphard.
- Professional tour guide.
- Accommodation for 2 nights at Kilwa Beach Lodge.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Historical site entry fees.
- Boat transfers and boat fees for the scheduled island excursions.
- Guided historical tours.
- Activities specified in the itinerary.
Plan for separately
- Tanzania visa fees, where applicable.
- Alcoholic drinks.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Personal expenses.
- Any optional activities or services not specified as included.
Find your fit
Who this journey suits
Travellers interested in Dar es Salaam, Kilwa Masoko, Kilwa Kisiwani. Share the needs and interests of your party when requesting a proposal.
Fitness, age and accessibility
Discuss fitness, mobility, dietary requirements and the needs of your travel party before booking.
Before you travel
A little preparation
Availability
By arrangement for your preferred dates. Transport, activities and named accommodation are subject to confirmation. Journey from Dar es Salaam: The road journey to Kilwa Masoko is approximately 320 km, with an estimated driving time of five hours. Journey time may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. Historical site visits: Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara are protected heritage sites. Guests should follow their guide's instructions and respect the historic structures. Boat excursions: Visits to the islands depend on boat arrangements, sea conditions and weather. The schedule may be adjusted when necessary for safety. Beach activities: Snorkelling and sport fishing are subject to availability, weather and sea conditions. Confirm which activities and equipment are covered by the package price.
What to pack
- Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear
- Sun protection and a hat
- Identification and travel documents
- Camera and personal essentials
Travel requirements
Check current passport, visa and applicable inbound-insurance requirements for your route. Confirm baggage allowances, connections and any activity-specific preparation with the team.
Booking with confidence
Payment and cancellation
We will share payment and cancellation terms in your written quote before payment.
A little clarity before you go
Your journey questions
How is the price calculated?
The published rates show USD per person by travel-party size. Your final quote confirms the travel dates, accommodation and included services.
Can I personalise this itinerary?
Send our team your dates, interests and preferred pace. We will discuss possible changes and confirm the arrangements in a written proposal.
