Roots & Routes: Heritage & History Trail
Overview
A powerful historical journey tracing Swahili civilization, trade, empire, and the Indian Ocean slave routes - designed especially for diaspora travelers, history enthusiasts, and educational groups.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Zanzibar
Arrive at Zanzibar International Airport. Transfer to your heritage hotel in Stone Town. Evening orientation walk through the ancient streets.
Day 2
Stone Town Slave Trade History
Deeply moving day exploring the slave trade history. Visit the former slave market site, now home to the Anglican Cathedral. Tour the underground slave chambers, Memorial Museum, and Palace Museum.
Day 3
Stone Town: Swahili & Arabian Heritage
Explore the broader cultural tapestry of Stone Town. Visit the House of Wonders, Old Fort, Sultan's Palace, and historic Indian merchant houses. Afternoon spice market tour and traditional Swahili cooking class.
Day 4
Ferry to Dar es Salaam
Morning ferry to Dar es Salaam. Afternoon visit to the National Museum with its rich collection of archaeological and historical artifacts.
Day 5
Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo
Drive north to Bagamoyo - once the terminus of the slave and ivory caravan routes. This historic town is where explorers like Burton, Speke, and Livingstone began and ended their expeditions.
Day 6
Bagamoyo Deep Dive
Full day exploring Bagamoyo's layers of history. Visit the Catholic Mission (oldest in East Africa), Livingstone's final resting place, and the beaches where enslaved Africans were loaded onto dhows.
Day 7
Reflection & Return to Dar es Salaam
Morning reflection session with a local historian or community elder. Discussion on resilience, reconnection, and the African diaspora experience. Afternoon return to Dar es Salaam.
Day 8
Departure
Transfer to Julius Nyerere International Airport for your departure flight.
- All accommodations (7 nights)
- Private vehicle with driver
- Expert heritage guide/historian
- Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam ferry
- All museum and site entrance fees
- Swahili cooking class
- All meals as specified
- Airport and port transfers
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides and staff
- Personal expenses