Kilwa, located on the southern coast of Tanzania, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the historical islands of Kilwa Kisiwani, Songo Mnara, and Kilwa Kivinje. Situated about 6 hours by road from Dar es Salaam, Kilwa is also accessible by scheduled flights connecting it to Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and nearby game parks.
From the 12th to the 15th century, Kilwa was the most powerful city-state on the East African coast, dominating trade from Sofala (Mozambique) to Mombasa (Kenya), covering about 1900 kilometers. The city’s influence extended across the islands of Comoros. Kilwa became a thriving trading hub that facilitated commerce between Asia and the African hinterland, where valuable commodities like ivory and gold were exchanged for goods such as beads, cotton cloth, porcelain, and jewellery.
The town’s history dates back to the 9th century, when Arabian and Persian traders settled in the region, leaving significant cultural marks that are still visible today. The preserved ruins showcase elaborate architecture, a testament to the influence of the Swahili civilization that flourished on the East African coast. The site offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural exchanges that shaped the region’s heritage.