Stop at Old Fort: This historic site served as a marketplace for Arab traders in the early 1860s, later used for illegal slave trade in 1870. Under German rule from 1896, it became a garrison and British prison after World War I. Today, it stands as a reminder of its complex past. Join our guided tour to explore its layers of history.
Duration: 1 Hour.
Stop at Old Boma: A significant historical building in the Old Town conservation area. Constructed in 1895 by Germans, it served as administrative headquarters for German East Africa until 1919. Later used as District Commissioner's office until 1997. Old iron safe holds secrets from its past. Duration: 30 minutes.
Stop at Holy Ghost Mission , Mango Tree Drive: This missionary complex is located on 1.2 miles/2 km nothern to the Old Bagamoyo town. It contains several buildings and historical features including
Livingstone Tower/First Holy Ghost Church: Established in 1868 by Father Antoine Horner. Gifted land by Muslims led by Sultan Majid. The first church (Holy Ghost Church) was built in 1872, becoming the first in the area and mainland East Africa. Livingstone Tower, part of the original church, named in honour of explorer David Livingstone.
Old Fathers' House: Built in 1873, a three-story pre-colonial mission-style residence for Holy Ghost Fathers. Completed in three phases, with a broad balcony adding to its charm.
Bagamoyo (Catholic) Museum: Built in 1876 as The Sisters' House. Houses poignant exhibits, including enslaved individuals' photographs, relics of missionary activities, historical books, Indian and Arab door frames, and artefacts from the transatlantic slave trade. Showcases local wooden artworks.
New Holy Ghost Church: Sewa Haji, a wealthy Muslim trader and philanthropist, gifted the mission with 49,000 acres of land in 1892. The New Holy Ghost Church, which is larger than the original church, was built between 1910 and 1914 using coral stone blocks.
Mission Cemetery: Resting place of early missionaries, 100 metres from the main mission building. Holds 27 graves of first Spiritan missionaries and 20 graves of “Daughters of Mary” congregation. Sister M. Julienne buried here on April 17th, 1870, a testament to their devotion to the area.
Holy Grotto: Built by “emancipated slaves” in 1876, consecrated in 1879 by Pope Leo XIII. A sacred place of pilgrimage for Tanzanian Catholics, a testament to strong faith and commitment to the Catholic Church.
Stop at Dhow Harbour: Historic trading port used for ivory and slave trades in the 19th century. Now used for fishing and tourist excursions. Enjoy the sunrise or sunset over the Indian Ocean. Duration: 30 minutes.
Stop at: Kaole Mamba Ranch - Private crocodile zoo and breeding centre. Observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Duration: 30 minutes.
After the tours, savour a local lunch and unwind on Bagamoyo's beaches. Soak up the sun, swim, and relax before returning to Dar es Salaam, feeling refreshed.
