Old Arab Fort of Bagamoyo — Attraction in Pwani Region

Visiting the Old Arab Fort in Bagamoyo is like peeling back the layers of East Africa’s complex coastal history. Although not as intact as the German Boma, this structure carries a deeper, more ancient weight. Built in the 18th century by Omani Arabs, the fort once served as a military post, slave holding area, and trade hub along the Swahili coast.

The worn-down walls, made of coral rag and lime, still stand tall, whispering stories of control, commerce, and human suffering. Standing inside the fort’s perimeter, I could easily imagine how Bagamoyo once bustled with caravans, traders, and colonizers, all converging at this very point on the Indian Ocean.

What moved me most was the thought that enslaved people were once held here before being shipped off, often never to return. It’s not a grand tourist attraction — and that’s exactly why it feels real. Raw, weathered, and minimally restored, the fort invites reflection more than entertainment.

There’s little signage, so I recommend going with a local guide who can fill in the historical gaps and tell stories passed down through generations.

Final thoughts: The Old Arab Fort is not just a ruin; it’s a symbol of the complicated layers of East African history — from Arab traders to German colonialists and the resilience of the Swahili culture in between.

Tip: Visit in the morning when it’s cooler, and pair it with a walk through the old town and the...

I visited Bagamoyo, it was an amazing experience filled with history and culture. I started at the Old Boma, which gave me a glimpse into the town’s colonial past and then saw the Slave Market, a place that reminded me of the hard times people faced during the slave trade. The Kaole Ruins, with its ancient structures, were really interesting, showing early Islamic influence in the region. I also stopped by the Bagamoyo Museum, which helped me learn even more about the area’s history. Afterward, I relaxed at Bagamoyo Beach, enjoying the peaceful vibe, and ended the tour by visiting the German Cemetery, a quiet spot that showed the legacy of European settlers. Overall, it was a meaningful trip that mixed learning with moments...

This is a historical place that you will love if you are interested in gaining insights into German East Africa and the colonial period of Germany in Tanzania and East Africa. You will also learn about the Majhi Majhi War, which was a conflict between several Tanzanian tribes and Germany.

We hired a guide, and in hindsight, it was a very wise decision. Our guide was very knowledgeable and shared several facts and stories from that period, including the origin of the name Bagamoyo, which was once a major point for the East African slave trade.

The entry fee was TZS 10,000 for residents. We didn't have to wait for...