Shimoni Slave Caves
Shimoni Caves
A cluster of coral-rock caves beside Shimoni village, said to have held enslaved people awaiting shipment. They stand as a witness to the East African slave trade.
The Shimoni Caves lie near Shimoni Harbour, a series of interconnected natural caves carved into coral rock. Local oral history holds that Arab slave traders kept captives in the caves in the 18th and 19th centuries before shipping them by sea to Zanzibar. Iron rings said to have been used to chain people can still be seen inside. Community guides lead the tours, and the caves are home to many bats. A visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes and can be made on the way out for a day trip to Kisite Marine Park. Bring a flashlight. Entry fees vary and are confirmed on site.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Wasini Island
- Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park
- Funzi Island
- Msambweni Beach
- Chale Island
- Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest
- Galu Kinondo Beach
- Colobus Conservation