Tongoni Ruins

“A place to learn Shirazi Culture”

Tongoni Ruins are situated 21km South of Tanga City along Tanga – Pangani road. The Ruins are surrounded with baobab trees and stand of Mangroves along the Indian Ocean. The ruins at Tongani are one of the most famous ruins in the history of Shirazi people who lived along the Indian Ocean Coast of East Africa. It is believed that Tongoni Ruins are one of first Shirazi settlements, which depicts the Shirazi cultures.  The attractions in the area include old graves, remains of mosque and about 20 overgrown Shirazi pillar- style tomb, the largest collections of such tomb in the East African Coast. Both the mosque and tombs are believed to have been built either in 14^th or 15^th century. Beyond the ruins is a fishing village where cultural and traditional activities of some descendants of the Shirazi people lived in the ruins can be experienced.

Tourism Activities

The area is suitable for excursions to learn the cultures and traditions of the Shirazi people and other Coastal tribes. Other activities include walking within the Mangrove and big baobab trees, and swimming.

Other Tourist Attractions near Tongoni Ruins

Other tourist attractions found near Tongoni Ruins are Amani Nature Forest Reserve, Mkwaja and Ushongo Beaches, Amboni Caves, Sadaan National Park and Tanga Coelacanth Marine Park (TACMP).

Accessibility

The area can be accessed by road from Tanga City through Tanga – Pangani road about 21km.