Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
to the 15th century, and about 22 graves, many going back to the same period. Among the
graves are several Shirazi pillar-style tombs reminiscent of those at Tongoni (
Click here
)
,
but in somewhat better condition, and a small museum housing Chinese pottery fragments
and other remnants. Just east of the ruins, past a dense stand of mangroves, is the old har-
bour, now silted, that was in use during Kaole's heyday.
The easiest way to reach the ruins on foot is by heading south for about 5km along the
road running past Chuo cha Sanaa. Walk with a guide (arranged at the Caravan Serai Mu-
seum) and don't carry valuables.
College of Arts
ARTS CENTRE
(Chuo cha Sanaa; 023-244 0149, 023-244 0032;
www.college-of-arts.org
)
Located
about 500m south of Bagamoyo along the road to Dar es Salaam is this renowned theatre
and arts college, home of the national dance company. When school is in session there are
occasional performances, and it's possible to arrange drumming or dancing lessons. The
annual highlight is the Bagamoyo Arts Festival (
Click here
)
.
Excursions
The coast around Bagamoyo is full of water birds and mangrove ecosystems, and there are
a few uncrowded stretches of sand. The small information desk at the Caravan Serai Mu-
seum, and most hotels, can arrange excursions to
Mbegani lagoon
, the
Ruvu River delta
and
Mwambakuni sand bar
, all nearby. Expect to pay from US$25 per person with four
people.
SLEEPING & EATING
Travellers Lodge
LODGE $$
( 023-244 0077, 0754-855485;
www.travellerslodge.com
; camping with shower US$12,
s/d cottages from US$55/70; ) With its relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices, this
is among the best value of the beach places. Accommodation is in clean, pleasant cottages
scattered around expansive grounds, some with two large beds. There's a restaurant and a
children's play area. It's just south of the entrance to the Catholic mission.
Bagamoyo Beach Resort
LODGE $$
( 023-244 0083, 0754-542213; bagamoyobeach@gmail.com; camping US$5, bandas
per person without bathroom US$12, s/d/tr US$40/62/85; ) Fine and friendly, with
adequate rooms in two blocks (ask for the one closer to the water), a few no-frills
bandas
(thatched-roof huts) on the beach that have just a bed and are good budget value, and a sea-
side location just north of Travellers Lodge. The cuisine is French-influenced and tasty.
