Mon - Fri: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Sat: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About Kilwa Kisiwani
Once described by the traveler Ibn Battuta as "one of the most beautiful and well-constructed towns in the world," Kilwa Kisiwani was the heart of the great Swahili Sultanate. Between the 11th and 15th centuries, this island city-state controlled the gold trade from the interior of Africa to Arabia, India, and China.
The ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani are a testament to the "Golden Age" of Swahili civilization. The Great Mosque, with its magnificent domes and vaults, was once the largest in sub-Saharan Africa. Nearby, the Palace of Husuni Kubwa features an octagonal swimming pool and grand reception halls that rivaled the palaces of the Middle East. Visiting Kilwa is a rare opportunity to see the architectural heights of a pre-colonial African empire.
Quick Facts
Activities You Can Do
Discover the architectural heights of a pre-colonial African empire
Ruin Exploration
Tour the magnificent Husuni Kubwa Palace and the Great Mosque of Kilwa.
Gereza Fort Visit
Explore the Arab/Portuguese fortress that stands guard over the harbor.
Boat Excursions
Take a motorized dhow to the neighboring ruins of Songo Mnara.
Cultural Immersion
Spend time in the modern village on the island to see how life continues amidst the ruins.
Location & Map
Kilwa Kisiwani is an island off the coast of the Lindi Region in Southern Tanzania
Ready to Explore Kilwa Kisiwani?
Walk through the ruins of one of Africa's greatest medieval civilizations. Contact us to plan your journey.
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