Tanzania Beach Holidays

Did you know that as well as offering spectacular safari holidays in its wonderful game rich reserves, Tanzania also has a stunning coastline which can provide a more relaxing alternative to the hustle and bustle of some of Zanzibar’s beach resorts?

Some say this area is reminiscent of Kenya’s coastline around Mombasa 50 years ago; tranquil and unspoiled. Last October, after seven nights in the Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) I headed to the coast to visit Ras Kutani, just a 12 minute flight south of Dar es Salaam, and The Tides Lodge to the north, on the beautiful and historic coast of Pangani. I found beautiful white sandy beaches, tropical vegetation, crystal clear waters and an array of exciting activities ranging from snorkelling and diving to cultural visits to nearby villages and schools. All this was topped off by delicious food at both places.

Ras Kutani’s comfortable cottages are set slightly back from the beach, while its luxurious suites sit on the hillside offering spectacular sea views. Adventurous visitors can snorkel around the nearby Norwegian shipwreck which dates back to 1905, and cultural visits can be arranged to the nearby Gomvu village and school. There is a very pretty lagoon surrounded by forest beside the lodge, to explore either on foot or by boat.

Beach at The Tides

Slightly more off the beaten track, a 50 minute flight to the north of the capital Dar es Salaam, is The Tides Lodge, close to the historic town of Pangani. This is a simple, tranquil beachside lodge with good service and very warm hospitality.

The Tides cottage

A particular highlight of my whole visit was taking a boat trip from the lodge to snorkel around Maziwe Island, a protected marine reserve which offers the most amazing marine life. Diving in this area is reported to be some of the best in Africa.

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