What are the Amboni Caves?

They are the largest limestone cave complex in East Africa, about 8 km north of Tanga city, formed roughly 150 million years ago in the Jurassic period; only one of the ten caves is used for guided tours, which come wrapped in local legend.

Can I visit the Usambara Mountains from Tanga?

Yes. The West Usambaras around Lushoto are about a three-hour drive (roughly 110 km) inland, offering excellent hiking, viewpoints and Shambaa village culture, while the East Usambaras hold the Amani Nature Reserve.

Is Tanga worth visiting?

For travellers who enjoy history, nature and an authentic, uncrowded Swahili city, yes; Tanga offers colonial architecture, caves, hot springs, reefs and mountain access without the tourist crowds of the northern circuit.

How do I get to Tanga?

The easiest routes are by road or bus from Dar es Salaam (about 5-6 hours) or from Moshi/Arusha through the Usambaras; limited flights also serve Tanga Airport (TGT).

Destination guide

Tanga

A laid-back colonial port with limestone caves, a historic harbour and the gateway to the misty Usambara Mountains.

If something goes wrong

Emergency & health

Police

112

National emergency line

Ambulance / Fire

114

Also try 115

Your guide

Founder-vetted

Every guide knows the nearest help.

Hospitals & clinics

Bombo Regional Referral Hospital

Hospital

Tanga city

the main public referral hospital for the Tanga region

View details & directions

Town clinics & health centres

Clinic

Tanga

for consultations and minor treatment

View details & directions

Pharmacies

Pharmacy

city centre

well-stocked pharmacies for medicines and supplies

View details & directions

Lushoto health facilities

Clinic

Usambara Mountains

basic care in the highlands; serious cases referred to Tanga or Moshi

View details & directions

Police

Tanga

national emergency line 112

View details & directions

Insurance accepted for emergencies

Tanga's Bombo Regional Referral Hospital handles most routine and emergency needs, but serious cases may be referred to Dar es Salaam or Moshi/Kilimanjaro; travellers should carry travel-medical insurance and consider evacuation cover, particularly when trekking in the remote Usambara Mountains. Dial 112 for emergencies and 114/115 for an ambulance.

NHIF AAR AMREF Flying Doctors