Shimoni means “inside the hole” in Swahili, and the name comes from a network of coral caves near the village jetty.
What happened here
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the caves are believed to have been used to hold captured people before they were shipped to Zanzibar’s slave markets. Iron rings and chains can still be seen on the walls.
The visit today
A local guide walks you through the cool, dim caves and tells the story passed down through the community. The visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Bring a torch or use your phone light.
Why it matters
Entrance fees support local community projects, and the stories keep an important history alive.
How to include it
The Shimoni Slave Cave tour is included in our Private Dolphin Tour and the Diani – Shimoni – Wasini Island trip. Ask us on WhatsApp to add it to any other day.