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Mikindani

Mikindani is a wonderful example of a traditional coastal Swahili town, with a blend of African, Arabic and European cultures. Situated in the far south-east of Tanzania, Mikindani is the perfect destination to really get off the beaten track to sample some of the ‘real’ Tanzania. Tourism is still very much in its infancy here – indeed there is only one small hotel in the region – The Old Boma. Therefore you will find the local people are especially interested to talk to visitors. You will have lots of opportunities to meet some fascinating people, experiment with your Swahili and learn about the local culture and lifestyle. You are also within easy reach of some outstanding pristine beaches and rarely visited game reserves

BAOBAB trips to Mikindani are arranged on a tailor-made basis. Please click through the below link to see information about your accommodation in Mikindani - the Old Boma - and for sample prices.

All BAOBAB’s prices exclude the international flight, which provides you with more flexibility, especially when you are based outside the UK. BAOBAB will arrange all aspects of your holiday once you are in Tanzania, including internal flights to Mikindani and transfers to your accommodation.

Accommodation in Mikindani

Activities

cultural trips

relax on the beach

water sports


 

Mikindani Bay is a large, well protected natural harbour. Off this bay lies a circular lagoon on which sits the historic port of Mikindani. It is a fascinating old town with winding streets and a blend of African, Arabic and European buildings.

The Mikindani area has a long and fascinating history. The protected lagoon has made a superb harbour for generations of fishermen and traders. Traders from the Arabian Peninsula settled in Mikindani in the 9th and 18th centuries and by the second half of the 15th century, Mikindani was an important export point for trade from Malawi, Zambia, Angola and Zaire. More recently the German colonial authorities constructed administrative and residential buildings around Mikindani in the early 20th Century including the old fort, the Governor's House and a commemorative "Slave Market".

The Makonde tribe also has close links to Mikindani - indeed they were the first settlers in the area. Hence, it is a great place to pick up some wonderful traditional Makonde Carivings.

 

Sailing Dhow on Mikindani Bay

Traditional Zanzibarian doorway

 

 

Fishmarket in Mikindani

Msimbati beach in Mnazi Bay Marine Reserve

Elephant in Lukwika Lumesule Game reserve

Things to Do

A range of cultural activities are available at the Old Boma, including free lessons in basic Swahili, guided nature trails,visits to local homes and free Swahili cookery lessons. Classes are available in ‘Tingatinga' painting and in the world-renowned Makonde woodcarving. If you are feeling adventurous, there is also the opportunity to go night-fishing in a dugout canoe, or to visit an African open-air nightclub! You can also take a trip to an ancient village across the bay in an Arab Dhow to visit a 13th Century Mosque.

 

• Mnazi Bay Marine Reserve: An excursion to the white pristine sands of Msimbati in this newly gazetted Marine Reserve is a must. Here you will find miles of white palm-fringed sandy beaches and coral reefs close to the shore which provide excellent snorkelling.


• Lukwika Lumesule Game Reserve: Half a day’s drive from Mikindani this reserve is one of the least visited wilderness areas in Tanzania. It is home to lion, leopard, hippo, crocodile, antelope as well as many other species.


• Mozambique Border: The border is only an 1½ hr’s drive away from Mikindani. Here you can visit the Ruvuma River, home to hippos, crocodiles and Lake Chidya – which is excellent for bird life

Please note: Some excursions need minimum numbers to operate, please ask BAOBAB for further information.

 

 

Precision Air plane
How to get to Mafia Island A approx 75 minute direct flight takes you from Dar es Salaam down to Mtwara airport. A private transfer will be arranged to take you the 8 miles from the airport to Mikindani by road. Alternatively you can take the overnight ferry from Dar to Mtwara (12 hours) with a private sleeping cabin, and a private taxi will meet you at Mtwara Port to take you to the Old Boma.