Tanga

Travel Notes Tanga

Tanga

Tanga is a historic port city where colonial architecture, lively markets, and Swahili coastal charm come together. It may not have major highlights, but it’s a great place to wander, soak up the atmosphere, and experience an authentic Swahili city.

Covered on this page:

  1. Things to do
  2. Restaurant tips
  3. To: Pangani / Ushongo
  4. To: Lushoto

Things to do

  • Ndumi Village Market – Browse second-hand clothes, woven baskets, spices, and traditional crafts. Stop for fresh juice, Swahili pilau, or mishkaki (grilled meat skewers).

  • Amboni Caves – One of East Africa’s largest limestone cave systems, 8 km north of Tanga. Take a guided, torch-lit tour to see stalactites and hear local myths.

  • Tongoni Ruins – Explore 15th-century Swahili mosques and tombs overlooking Mtangata Bay, a reminder of the area’s ancient trading past.

Restaurant tips

  • The Kitchen Café – On Mkwakwani Road. Serves Indian, Chinese, Italian, and local dishes. Popular for butter chicken, masala dosa, fresh smoothies, and pastries.

  • D’Amour Bar & Grill – A relaxed beach bar with a garden dining area, offering Italian dishes, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly options.

To: Pangani / Ushongo

Distance & time

  • From Tanga: 55 km | 2 hrs
  • From Fish Eagle Point: 3.5 hrs

Route

  • Leave Tanga heading south.
  • Follow the minor gravel road through Kilale → Boza → Pangani town.
  • The route takes you through endless coconut plantations.
  • To continue to Ushongo, cross the Pangani River by ferry — a fun experience!

To: Lushoto

Distance & time

  • From Tanga: 170 km | 4 hrs
  • From Fish Eagle Point: add 90 min

Route

  • From Fish Eagle Point Lodge (52 km north of Tanga, 90 min scenic drive):

    • Drive back through Tanga on the A14 south.

    • Rejoin the main road between Manza Primary School and Manza Secondary School.

  • From Tanga, follow the A14 and B1 inland towards Pongwe and on to Mombo.
  • From Mombo, turn right at Usambara Filling Station.
  • The road climbs into the Usambara Mountains, leading you to the lively mountain town of Lushoto.

On the way

  • Enjoy the contrast: from palm trees and coastal villages to cool mountain air and African alpine scenery.

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