Mikindani Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Mikindani, Tanzania with this comprehensive travel guide, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Mikindani is a small town located in the southeastern part of Tanzania, East Africa. It is a perfect destination for those who seek to experience the unique culture and history of this African country, without sacrificing the opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Mikindani, from the best places to visit to the local customs and safety measures.

Introduction to Mikindani

Mikindani is a historic town that has a lot to offer. It was founded in the 13th century and played a significant role in the slave trade. Today, the town is a peaceful and charming place, offering visitors the chance to see its colonial architecture, visit museums and historical sites, and enjoy its natural wonders. The town has a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Mikindani

Mikindani offers a variety of things to do and see, including culturally important museums and historical sites and natural wonders. Here are some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mikindani Slave Market – this historical site is a reminder of the town’s dark past and its role in the slave trade.
  • German Boma – the building has undergone restoration and currently serves as a museum.
  • Mikindani Town Center – take a stroll through the town’s center and admire the colonial architecture.

Natural Attractions of Mikindani: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mnazini Mangrove Boardwalk – take a hike through the scenic boardwalk in the mangrove forest.
  • Mtwara Marine Park – a national park which offers snorkeling, diving, and other water activities.
  • Mikindani Bay – watch the sunset over the bay and admire the picturesque view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mikindani

Mikindani has several hiking and biking routes that provide scenic views of the town’s natural beauty. One of the most popular routes is the Mnazini Mangrove Boardwalk, a 1.5 km trail through the mangrove forest with scenic views of the Mikindani Bay.

Best Things to Do in Mikindani: Activities and Tours

Mikindani offers various activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving in Mtwara Marine Park
  • Boat tours to explore the bay and nearby islands
  • Sunset cruises to watch the sunset over the bay

Week-Long Itinerary for Mikindani

Day 1: Arrive in Mikindani and check into your hotel Day 2: Explore the town’s center and visit the German Boma museum Day 3: Take a boat tour to nearby islands and enjoy the scenic views Day 4: Visit the Mikindani Slave Market site and learn about the town’s history Day 5: Hike the Mnazini Mangrove Boardwalk and enjoy the natural beauty Day 6: Go snorkeling or scuba diving in Mtwara Marine Park Day 7: Take a sunset cruise to watch the sunset over the bay

Food and Drink Scene of Mikindani

Tanzanian cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and rich in spices. In Mikindani, visitors can try local dishes and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali – a staple dish made of maize flour served with vegetables and meat or fish.
  • Pilau – a rice dish cooked with spices and served with meat or vegetables.
  • Zanzibar Mix – a combination of bhajias (vegetable fritters), samosas, and fried cassava.
  • Chapati – a thin flatbread made of wheat flour.

Local Beverages

  • Masala Chai – a spiced tea commonly enjoyed in Tanzania.
  • Tusker Beer – a popular beer brand in Tanzania.
  • Coconut Water – a refreshing drink that can be found on the streets.

Where to Stay in Mikindani: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mikindani has a range of accommodation options for every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Mikindani Bay View Resort – a beachfront resort that offers a swimming pool and restaurant.
  • The Old Boma Hotel – a hotel located in the German Boma building that offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  • Tandala Guest House – a guest house located in the center of town that offers clean and affordable rooms.

What to Buy in Mikindani: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mikindani offers visitors the chance to buy unique souvenirs and support local businesses. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Kanga – a colorful garment that is commonly worn in Tanzania.
  • Beaded jewelry – handmade jewelry made by local artisans.
  • Tinga Tinga paintings – colorful paintings that depict African themes.

Local Culture and Customs of Mikindani

The people of Mikindani are predominantly Muslims who follow their customs and traditions. Visitors should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Mikindani

The best time to visit Mikindani is during the dry season, from June to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, visitors can visit Mikindani at any time of the year as the town has a warm tropical climate throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mikindani

Do:

  • Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Drink bottled water to avoid getting sick.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing outfits as it is considered offensive in the local culture.
  • Drink tap water as it is not safe for consumption.
  • Take pictures of people or religious sites without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mikindani

Mikindani is relatively safe for visitors. However, visitors should exercise caution and take necessary precautions, such as locking their rooms and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Health in Mikindani

Visitors are advised to take necessary vaccines and precautions to prevent diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever. Visitors should also drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent getting sick.

Getting to Mikindani: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mikindani is easily accessible by air and road. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Mikindani

  • Mtwara Airport – located 31 km from Mikindani.

Bus Stations Near Mikindani

  • Mikindani Bus Station – located in the town center.

Other Options

  • Taxis – Taxis are available in Mikindani and can be hailed from the streets.

How to Get Around in Mikindani

The best way to get around Mikindani is on foot or by taxi. Most of the town’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, and taxis are readily available at affordable prices.

Where to Go Next from Mikindani: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mikindani is the perfect base to explore the nearby attractions and destinations. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • Selous Game Reserve – a wildlife reserve that is home to elephants, giraffes, and lions.
  • Zanzibar – an island located off the coast of Tanzania that is known for its beautiful beaches and rich history.
  • Dar es Salaam – the capital city of Tanzania, located 500 km north of Mikindani.

Conclusion

Mikindani is a small town with a rich and colorful history, scenic views, and a friendly atmosphere. It offers visitors the perfect combination of cultural and outdoor experiences. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your trip to Mikindani and make the most out of your stay in this beautiful part of Tanzania.