Embark on an extraordinary 16-day journey along the Swahili Coast, where the ebb and flow of trade winds have carried merchants, conquerors, and cultures for over a millennium. From the 8th century, when Arab and Persian traders first established settlements on the East African coast, to the arrival of Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, and through the era of Omani sultanates, this narrow coastline has been a crucible of cultural exchange. Our expedition will take you from the winding alleys of Lamu, a town that has remained largely unchanged since the 18th century, to the imposing ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, once described by Ibn Battuta as “one of the most beautiful and well-constructed cities in the world.”
The Swahili Coast’s strategic location made it a vital link in the Indian Ocean trade network, connecting the African interior with Arabia, Persia, India, and China. Gold from Zimbabwe, ivory from the Congo, and slaves from the continental interior flowed through Swahili ports, returning with porcelain, silk, and spices. This commerce gave rise to a unique Swahili culture, a sophisticated blend of African and Asian influences reflected in everything from language and cuisine to architecture and art. Our journey will reveal this cultural tapestry, from the intricately carved doorways of Mombasa’s Old Town to the haunting ruins of Gede, abandoned in the 17th century for reasons that remain a mystery.
As we traverse the coast from Kenya to Tanzania, we’ll witness the enduring legacy of this remarkable civilization. We’ll explore Lamu, where traditional dhows still ply the waters and donkeys remain the primary mode of transport. In Zanzibar, we’ll wander through Stone Town’s labyrinth of alleys, where the air is heavy with the scent of cloves, and the shadows of the slave trade still linger. Our journey culminates in Kilwa Kisiwani, the medieval powerhouse that once controlled much of the East African gold trade. Throughout our expedition, the expertise of Dr. Stephanie Wynne-Jones will bring to life the stories written in stone and sand, offering insights into ongoing archaeological discoveries that continue to reshape our understanding of this fascinating region.
Any questions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Depart on a flight bound for Nairobi, Kenya.
Arrive to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and largest city. Founded in 1899 as a rail depot on the Uganda Railway, Nairobi grew to become the capital of British East Africa in 1907. Today, it’s a bustling metropolis that serves as the gateway to our Swahili Coast adventure. Enjoy a visit to the National Museum of Kenya before transferring to the Radisson Blu, Nairobi Upper Hill, our home the night. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travel companions. (D)
Morning flight to Lamu, an island that has been a significant Swahili settlement since the 14th century. Afternoon and lunch at leisure to settle in and get a first glimpse of this enchanting island, where donkeys remain the primary mode of transport. Join the Shela Women’s Association for an enriching Samosa Making Class, where you’ll delve into the art of crafting this traditional delicacy while exploring the cultural and historical significance behind each ingredient and technique. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight at The Majlis Resort, Lamu for three nights. (B/L/D)
Full-day exploration of Lamu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow streets, visiting the Lamu Museum housed in a traditional Swahili townhouse. The museum showcases Swahili culture and the town’s seafaring history. We’ll also see the impressive Riyadha Mosque, built in 1900, which has been a center for Islamic scholarship in East Africa.
In the afternoon, take a boat to Manda Island to visit the evocative ruins of Takwa, a 16th-century Swahili settlement abandoned in the 17th-century due to lack of fresh water. (B/L/D)
Today we’ll take a boat trip to Pate Island, home to some of the earliest and most important Swahili settlements. We’ll visit the ruins of Shanga, where Chinese porcelain dated to 760 AD provides evidence of early Indian Ocean trade. We’ll also explore the current town of Pate, once a rival to Lamu and Mombasa, where traditional Swahili culture is still very much alive. Dr. Wynne-Jones will discuss the archaeological evidence for the development of Swahili culture. (B/L/D)
A morning flight takes us to Mombasa, first mentioned by name by the 12th-century Arab geographer Al Idrisi, and a major Swahili city-state before becoming a Portuguese stronghold in the 16th century. Transfer upon arrival to Watamu with the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the beautiful beach or relax by the pool at our hotel in Watamu. Overnight at Hemingways Watamu for two nights. (B/L/D)
Morning visit to the ruins of Gede, a mysterious abandoned city hidden in a lush coastal forest. This prosperous town, which flourished from the 13th to 17th centuries, was inexplicably deserted, leaving behind impressive ruins including a palace, mosques, and houses. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Malindi Town, an important historical port that hosted Vasco da Gama in 1498, marking the beginning of Portuguese influence on the Swahili Coast. (B/L/D)
Return to Mombasa and enjoy an afternoon visit to Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, where we can observe giraffes, ostriches, and other wildlife against the backdrop of baobab trees. This sanctuary offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that have shaped life on the Swahili Coast for millennia. Overnight at the Serena Beach Resort & Spa, Mombasa for two nights. (B/L/D)
Morning visit to Fort Jesus, a 16th-century Portuguese fort and museum that bears testimony to the long European presence on the Swahili Coast. Built between 1593 and 1596, the fort’s architecture reflects Renaissance military design. We’ll also explore the ruins of Jumba la Mtwana, a 14th-century Swahili town whose name means “the large house of the slave,” providing insight into the Indian Ocean slave trade. In the afternoon, we’ll wander through Mombasa’s atmospheric Old Town, with its narrow alleys and intricately carved doorways reflecting centuries of multicultural influence. (B/L/D)
A flight to Zanzibar, the “Spice Island,” once the world’s largest producer of cloves and a key player in the Indian Ocean slave trade. Enjoy an evening lecture by Dr. Wynne-Jones on Zanzibar’s role in Indian Ocean trade networks. Overnight at Kisiwa House, Zanzibar for two nights. (B/ L/D)
Full day in Stone Town, another UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll visit the former slave market and the Anglican Cathedral built on its site, a powerful reminder of Zanzibar’s history. We’ll explore the Old Fort, built by Omani Arabs in the 17th century, and the House of Wonders, a 19th-century sultan’s palace. Our “spice tour” will connect us to the trade that made Zanzibar famous. We’ll also visit the late 19th-century Hamamni Persian Baths. In the afternoon, we’ll take a boat trip to Prison Island to see giant tortoises and the old quarantine station. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)
Morning flight to Dar es Salaam, followed by a scenic drive to Kilwa. Dar es Salaam, whose name means “Haven of Peace” in Arabic, was founded in the 1860s by the Omani Sultan of Zanzibar. Evening at leisure with a lecture by Dr. Wynne-Jones on the rise and fall of Kilwa. Overnight at Kilwa Pakaya Hotel for three nights. (B/L/D)
Enjoy the first of two full days exploring the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani. Once described by Ibn Battuta as “one of the most beautiful and well-constructed cities in the world,” Kilwa controlled much of the gold trade with Sofala in present-day Mozambique. We’ll visit the Great Mosque, begun in the 11th century and substantially expanded in the 14th century, once the largest mosque in sub-Saharan Africa. After lunch, explore the vast palace complex known as Husuni Kubwa. Dr. Wynne-Jones will provide insights into the latest archaeological findings from this important site. (B/L/D)
Today we continue our explorations of Kilwa Kisiwani, including the smaller mosques, the fort, and the extensive cemeteries. We’ll discuss Kilwa’s role in the wider Indian Ocean trade networks and its connections to the African interior. The day will conclude with a summary discussion led by Dr. Wynne-Jones on the significance of Kilwa in Swahili and world history. (B/L/D)
Return to Dar es Salaam, reflecting on our journey along the Swahili Coast. Evening at leisure. Farewell dinner where we’ll discuss how our perceptions of East African history and culture have been transformed by our experiences. Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton, Dar es Salaam. (B/L/D)
Transfer to Dar es Salaam International Airport for flights home, carrying with us a deeper understanding of the Swahili Coast’s rich history and enduring cultural legacy. (B)
