The UNESCO-listed ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, a medieval Swahili trading city.
A boat trip to the ruins of Songo Mnara.
Empty beaches and a hotel on the Kilwa Masoko coast.
Overview
Kilwa is one of the most historic places on the East African coast, and few people visit it. The ruins of mosques, a palace and a fort stand on an island near Kilwa Masoko and tell the story of a once-powerful trading state.
It suits history lovers and travellers who prefer quiet places. See Kilwa Kisiwani.
Tour facts
Difficulty
Easy
Group sizes
Private, Joining safari
Great for
All ages
Languages
English, Swahili
Start point
Dar es Salaam
Guest rating
4.8 / 5
Best months to travel
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Day-by-day itinerary
Day1Fly to Kilwa MasokoKilwa Kisiwani
A flight from Dar es Salaam to Kilwa and a transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, a walk on the shore and a first look at the Gereza fort.
Day2Kilwa Kisiwani ruinsKilwa Kisiwani
A boat to Kilwa Kisiwani and a walking tour of the Great Mosque, Husuni Kubwa and the fort.
Day3Songo Mnara and the mangrovesKilwa Kisiwani
A boat trip to Songo Mnara, with lunch on the island and time to explore the ruins.
Day4Return to Dar es SalaamKilwa Kisiwani
A morning at leisure and the flight back to Dar es Salaam.
Photos from the trip
What’s included
Return airport and hotel transfers on Zanzibar
Accommodation on the board basis named in your quote
Guided excursions on the itinerary, with entrance fees
Boat and dhow transport for the trips listed
Drinking water on excursions
Not included
International flights and Tanzania visa
Meals and drinks outside the board basis stated
Optional excursions and water sports not on the itinerary
Tips, personal expenses and travel insurance
Prices by season
Per person in USD, 2026 rates, based on 2 travellers sharing.
Year-round rate
1 Jan – 31 Dec
$1,080
Travelling in a group? You save
Per-person price for the Year-round rate rate.
1 traveller
$1,642
--52%
2 travellers
$1,080
-0%
3 travellers
$1,048
-3%
4 travellers
$1,026
-5%
5 travellers
$1,004
-7%
6 travellers
$983
-9%
7 travellers
$972
-10%
8 travellers
$961
-11%
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for the beach?
The drier months, roughly June to October and December to March, are the most popular. April and May bring heavy rains and lower prices.
Can we add a safari?
Yes. Safari and beach is our most popular combination. Ask us to add three to six days on the mainland before or after your beach stay.
