Mangapwani Slave Caves –
Explore Zanzibar’s Hidden Past

🌍 Discover Mangapwani – A Town Steeped in History

Located 25 km north of Stone Town, Mangapwani is a historic town on Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar. The town’s name, meaning “Arabian Shore” in Swahili, is a reminder of its role in Zanzibar’s 19th-century slave trade, particularly during the black-market slavery era from the 1840s to the 1880s.

⛏️ Explore the Slave Caves of Mangapwani

Mangapwani’s shoreline is home to numerous caves, some of which were used to hold enslaved people before they were transported to slave markets. Among these, the Coral Cavern, located 2 km south of town, is one of the most visited attractions.

🏚️ The Hidden Slave Chamber

Another significant site in Mangapwani is the Slave Chamber, a historic holding site located just 1.9 km (1.2 miles) away—a short 3-minute drive from the town center. This chamber serves as a powerful reminder of Zanzibar’s past and the region’s historical significance in the East African slave trade.

🔎 Discovered by a British Explorer

The caves of Mangapwani were first documented in the 1870s by Joseph Thomas Last, a British explorer and missionary in East Africa. Today, these caves remain an important historical site, offering visitors a thought-provoking journey into Zanzibar’s complex past.

📌 Important Information

📅 Tour Duration: Half-Day Tour

🚶 Activity Level: Easy to Moderate

📍 Starting Point: Stone Town, Zanzibar

🎟️ Includes: Guided tour of the caves, historical insights, and cultural exploration

⚠️ Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and other factors to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.