Things To Do
in Mtwara
Mtwara is a coastal city in southeastern Tanzania known for its warm hospitality and palm-fringed beaches. It sits along the Indian Ocean, offering a relaxed pace, sea views, and a gateway to nearby historic sites like Mikindani Old Town. The town blends Swahili culture with maritime life, evident in its markets, fishing boats, and seafood-forward cuisine.
The climate supports year-round outdoor exploration, though the rainy season can influence plans and travel times.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mtwara and settle into your accommodation. After refreshing, head out to explore the town’s vibrant local markets and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Take time to sample some traditional Tanzanian breakfast dishes at a nearby café.
In the afternoon, visit the Mtwara Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the unique coastal architecture influenced by Swahili culture. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant while watching the waves of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to relax and enjoy the view. Sample some fresh seafood at a popular local restaurant and mingle with residents enjoying the evening. Consider joining a walking tour to witness the local nightlife and music scene.
Take a short trip to Mikindani, a historical town known for its well-preserved architecture. Spend the morning wandering through old colonial buildings and learning about the town's significance in the spice trade. Capture the stunning ocean views from the cliffs overlooking the bay.
After a delicious lunch of local cuisine, embark on a boat tour to explore the coastal waters. Look out for dolphins playing alongside the boat and enjoy swimming in the pristine nature reserve. This picturesque adventure allows for some great photography opportunities.
Return to Mtwara in the evening, where you can relax and unwind. Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy the sounds of the ocean while indulging in grilled fish. Conclude the night by sharing stories with fellow travelers over drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $1-3 per short ride |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and welcoming people
- Strong seafood culture and vibrant markets
- Historical Mikindani area offers rich Swahili heritage
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale amenities
- Travel can require routing through larger cities; road conditions vary
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Shikamoo" - Respectful greeting to elders
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Bei gani?" - How much is this?
- "Ndiyo / Hapana" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Mtwara
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic Swahili-era wooden houses with winding lanes and sea views.
Palm-fringed coastline with a lighthouse at the cliff; ideal for sunset photography.
Busy port scenes, fishing boats, and market activity for candid photography.
Food in Mtwara
Mtwara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant coconut rice typically served with fish or prawns; a coastal staple.
Must-Try!
Spiced rice cooked with aromatics and seafood, offering rich, savory flavors.
Grilled meat served with local greens; a popular street-food option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh fish, cashews, coconuts, and spices; street stalls offer roasted snacks and fried plantains.
Skewers of seafood, samosas, and fried plantains along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and a warm
Dress modestly in public; avoid loud public displays of affection; ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Mtwara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% for good service in restaurants; small tips for street vendors are common when the service is helpful.
Cash (Tanzanian shilling) is widely used; USD is accepted at some tourist spots; many hotels accept card payments, but ATMs are concentrated in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; low rainfall and excellent conditions for outdoor activities and island trips.
Higher humidity and afternoon rain showers; lush landscapes and fewer crowds, with occasional storms—plan flexible itineraries.
Transitional weather with moderate heat; quieter streets and favorable birdwatching opportunities.
Mtwara at Night
Hiking in Mtwara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal trail through Mikindani and nearby beaches with opportunities for birdwatching.
Gentle hikes along the river with riverine forest and village views.
Day hikes through coastal forest areas with wildlife viewing and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Mtwara by plane.
Domestic flights to and from Dar es Salaam and other regional centers; check schedules in advance.
Regional airport in Lindi; useful for shorter trips within the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse coastal communities with Swahili-speaking populations and a mix of neighboring groups; strong maritime and agricultural ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in parks and schools.
Played in schools and community courts around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mtwara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes, rice, beans, and chapati; many meals can be prepared without seafood by asking the kitchen.