Once the undisputed trading center of German East Africa, Bagamoyo has since doffed its cap to Dar es Salaam to the south. However, the town still clings to a rich historical narrative; one that talks of explorers, slavers, merchants and missionaries who walked its shores, led by prominent names such as Richard Burton, Henry Morton Stanley and David Livingstone

Start by hitting the eerie ruins of the old German colonial headquarters, once the final stop of civilisation for expeditions making their way into the wilder, more dangerous and mineral-rich corners of East Africa. At lunch, settle down for some hand-made ugali maize dough balls (a local speciality), before casing out the beaches that thread their way elegantly along the southern stretches of the city. Here, dhows can be seen bobbing in the waters, reminiscent of a time when ivory, timber and countless slaves were transported from its shores; the new port coming up will aim at restoring prosperity to this town with different cargo loads together. Amidst the streets, Bagamoyo tour guides can point out curious boutiques selling local crafts and trinkets too, while the ruins of the Kaole mosques are also worth the trip (if not the rather high price tag!).