Kilwa, Mafia & Zanzibar Island 15-Day Itinerary – Coastal Heritage & Island Bliss
Explore Tanzania’s coastal jewels through an unforgettable 14-night journey designed for culture, marine adventure, and barefoot luxury.
For: 2 Pax | Duration: 14 Nights / 15 Days
Destinations Covered: Dar es Salaam | Bagamoyo | Mafia Island | Kilwa Historic City | Zanzibar Island
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Gateway to Coastal Tanzania
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), you will be warmly received and transferred to your 5-star accommodation: Johari Rotana or Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel for a 2-night stay.
Spend your day unwinding after your flight and enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Day 2: Bagamoyo Heritage Tour – A Walk Through Time
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Bagamoyo, one of East Africa’s oldest trading ports. This UNESCO World Heritage site is rich in Swahili, Arab, and German colonial history.
Highlights Include:
- Old Stone Town, German Boma & Hanging Place
- Slave Market & German Cemetery
- Kaole Ruins: Ancient mosques, baobab trees, and the fabled “Love Grave”
- Enjoy a local buffet lunch with tropical fruits and refreshments before returning to Dar for a relaxing evening.
Day 3: Flight to Mafia Island – Jewel of Marine Wonders
Morning flight to Mafia Island, home to the largest marine protected area in East Africa and seasonal haven for whale sharks and humpback whales.
Accommodation Options:
- Pole Pole Bungalows
- Kinasi Lodge
- Butiama Beach Resort
- After check-in, venture out to Chole Island Ruins or Kua Ruins for historical exploration. Snorkel in crystal waters at Blue Lagoon (if tides allow), relax on a sandbank, and return by 5:30 PM.
Day 4: Whale Shark & Whale Watching Adventure
Begin your morning with a thrilling excursion to swim with whale sharks (October–March). For guests traveling between August–October, a humpback whale safari in the afternoon offers breathtaking encounters with these ocean giants.
Enjoy a seafood lunch during the trip and snorkel among vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
Day 5: Road Trip to Kilwa – The Ancient Swahili Kingdom
After breakfast, depart for Kilwa via a scenic private road transfer. Arrive at your beachside accommodation: Kilwa Beach Lodge or Kilwa Dreams Beach Resort for a 3-night stay.
This region once stood as a powerful medieval trade city linked to Persia, Arabia, and India.
Day 6: Snorkeling & Sunset Dhow Experience
Spend the morning relaxing on the beach or by the pool. After lunch, enjoy a leisurely snorkeling session along coral reefs before boarding a traditional sunset dhow cruise at 5:00 PM—complete with refreshments and a backdrop of tropical splendor.
Day 7: UNESCO World Heritage Tour – Kilwa Kisiwani & Songo Mnara
After breakfast, embark on a historical expedition by boat to either Kilwa Kisiwani or Songo Mnara, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kilwa Kisiwani Sites:
- Great Mosque, Makutani Palace, Sultan’s Palace
- Domed Mosques, Great Fort, and Chittlehampton House
- Songo Mnara Sites:
- Ruins of the Sultan’s complex, mangrove channels, and ancient houses
Subject to tide conditions, snorkeling may be added to complete the day.
Day 8: Return to Dar es Salaam
After breakfast, return by private vehicle to Dar es Salaam. Check into The Oysterbay Hotel in the stylish Msasani Peninsula for 2 nights. Enjoy sunset views, poolside cocktails, and a relaxing dinner
Day 9: Leisure Day in Dar es Salaam
Today is yours to unwind. Enjoy the hotel’s luxurious amenities, lounge by the pool, or explore the lively peninsula district known for its cafes, ocean views, and vibrant art scenes.
Day 10: Transfer to Zanzibar – The Spice Island
After breakfast, transfer to Zanzibar by boat or flight (your choice).
Accommodation: Madinat Al Bahr Beach Resort or Zanzibar Serena Hotel for 2 nights in Stone Town.
At 4:00 PM, take a guided Stone Town Tour to explore Zanzibar’s UNESCO-listed maze of alleyways, bustling bazaars, and ancient Swahili architecture.
Day 11: Prison Island, Snorkeling & Nakupenda Sandbank
Full-day sea adventure:
- Visit Prison Island – learn about its tortoise sanctuary and colonial history
- Snorkel at Bawe Island
- Indulge in a BBQ seafood lunch at Nakupenda Sandbank, with soft drinks and tropical fruits
- Return to Stone Town by late afternoon for a relaxed evening.
Day 12: Transfer to Nungwi or Kendwa – Northern Zanzibar
After breakfast, transfer north to Nungwi or Kendwa, famous for white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Stay 3 nights at Warere Beach Hotel, Kendwa Rocks, or Zuri Zanzibar.
At 4:00 PM, board a sunset dhow cruise with onboard snacks, fruit platters, soft drinks, and live traditional drums.
Day 13: Dolphin Encounter & Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
- Early breakfast followed by a half-day marine tour:
- Dolphin safari along Mnemba coastline
- Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll – a paradise for coral lovers
- Return by 1:00 PM and relax at your hotel for the rest of the day
Day 14: Free Day & Optional Adventures
Relax or choose optional premium activities (advance booking required):
- Horse Riding in ocean or on beach
- Jet Skiing – thrill ride in the blue lagoon
- Jet Car Ride – exotic aquatic adventure
- Buggy Tours – off-road driving through the coastal wild
- Clear Kayaking with Drone Video
- Spa & Beach Massage
- Spend your last full day soaking in the sun, enjoying the beach, and celebrating the journey.
Day 15: Departure from Zanziba
Enjoy a final breakfast by the sea before your private airport transfer to Zanzibar International Airport. Fly home with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s historic coast and stunning islands.
Tour Inclusions:
- All domestic flights and transfers
- Professional local guides at all destinations
- Accommodations in selected luxury hotels & resorts
- All excursions, park fees, snorkeling gear, and dhow cruises
- Breakfast daily + selected lunches (excursion-based)