Things To Do
in Tanga
Tanga is a coastal city in Tanzania, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. The city boasts a vibrant mix of cultures, influenced by Arab, Indian, and African heritage. It serves as a gateway to some of Tanzania's most stunning national parks and marine reserves.
Tanga is also famed for its friendly locals and a slower pace of life, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tanga Old Fort, a historical site offering insights into the region's colonial past. Afterward, stroll along the Tanga Waterfront to enjoy the early morning sea breeze.
Have lunch at a local eatery and then head to the Amboni Caves, known for their stunning limestone formations and underground river.
Finish the day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Visit the Amani Nature Reserve, where you can hike through lush rainforests and spot various bird species. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature.
Return to Tanga for lunch and then explore the local markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts and enjoy some street food.
Experience Tanga's nightlife by visiting a local bar or live music venue to enjoy traditional Tanzanian music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at local restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍔Fast food meal | $3-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within city) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $5-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural history and friendly locals
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Tanzania
- Limited nightlife options
- Transportation can be challenging outside the city
- Some areas may have limited healthcare facilities
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me/Sorry
Places to Visit in Tanga
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque spot perfect for capturing sunset views and local fishermen at work.
The unique formations and lighting inside the caves provide excellent photography opportunities.
A lush landscape filled with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Tanga
Tanga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular snack, these are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables.
Must-Try!
A unique street food item, this is a thin dough filled with various ingredients, cooked on a hot plate.
Locally caught fish, grilled to perfection and served with a side of ugali and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can buy fresh fish and seafood directly from local fishermen.
A vibrant market featuring a wide array of street food options, local produce, and spices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are important; a handshake followed by a friendly greeting is customary.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
Show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures; it is considered very important in the culture.
Safety
Tipping in Tanga
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included. In bars, rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment methods like M-Pesa are also popular. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.
Expect heavy rainfall, particularly from March to May, leading to lush greenery but potentially challenging travel conditions.
This period attracts many tourists, leading to crowded attractions but also vibrant local events.
Fewer tourists mean less crowded attractions and often better rates on accommodations.
Tanga at Night
Hiking in Tanga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail through the Amani Nature Reserve, showcasing diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.
Located a short distance from Tanga, these trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Tanga by plane.
Located just a short drive from the city center, Tanga Airport offers domestic flights to Dar es Salaam and other regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Swahili people are the indigenous coastal ethnic group, known for their rich cultural heritage and history as traders.
This community has a significant influence on Tanga's culture and cuisine, stemming from historical trade connections with Zanzibar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tanga, with many local teams and matches drawing crowds.
Cricket has a growing following, particularly among the younger population, with local clubs and matches organized regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tanga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask about preparation methods.
Most food in Tanga is halal, but it's best to confirm with the vendor or restaurant.