Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Why Visit Dar es Salaam 

We are passionate about our city and country and want to share our pride. We encourage you to consider a night or two in Dar es Salaam on your way to your Tanzania safari. We promise to take care of your whole trip and show you the best of Dar with much to offer. You can learn about the country’s history and fascinating culture. The National Museum, delicious, barbequed street foods, and day trips to Oyster Bay, also known as Coco Beach, just north of the city, or Bongoyo Island, are highly recommended. Shop for local crafts at Kariakoo Market, snorkel in clear waters and spot dolphins and turtles.  

Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam, also known as “the city of peace,” is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city in East Africa. It is the financial hub of the region, as well as a cultural and historical centre. The city was founded by the Sultan of Zanzibar in 1862 and has since developed into a modern metropolis with a rich diversity of architectural styles, ethnic groups, and religions. 

Dar es Salaam is a thrilling and charming destination for those who want to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty, beaches, food and culture. There’s a wide range of attractions and activities for all preferences and budgets. From exploring the colourful markets to enjoying the stunning Indian Ocean’s white sandy beaches. The city is also the gateway to some of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks and wildlife reserves. At the same time, an historic and captivating Zanzibar Island holiday is just a short trip away. 

Where Is Dar es Salaam

If you are searching for a dynamic and diverse destination, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania is the place to arrive. It is the country’s largest and most cosmopolitan city on the stunning tropical Indian Ocean coast, just a short hop from Zanzibar Island’s idyllic white sandy beaches, and the gateway to Tanzania’s exclusive southern safari parks. Dar es Salaam offers every traveller a rich blend of cultures, cuisines and attractions. 

What To See & Do In Dar es Salaam 

Kivukoni Fish Market

Whether flying in for a Dar es Salaam adventure or a relaxing beach getaway, you will find plenty to explore and enjoy in Dar es Salaam, also known as ‘Dar’. You can sample the delicious fusion of Swahili, European, Arab, and Indian flavours in the city’s many restaurants, from spicy curries and barbequed meats to fresh seafood and pizza. At sunrise, there is the vibrant Kivukoni Fish Market to explore, where fisherfolk sell their fresh catches of the day. It’s a marvellous experience, splashed with local colour.  

Kariakoo Market

To immerse yourself in the city’s diverse heritage and food traditions and be surrounded by the sights and aromas of its traditional foods and culture, visiting the Kariakoo Market is a must. This authentic market spreads over a few busy city blocks. It offers home goods, local and international fashions, and myriad foods.  

Street Food & Museums

The city is famous for its mouth-watering street foods, which include juicy barbecued chicken, beef, and fish. These street foods are a must-try for visitors and represent the city’s liveliness and enthusiasm. While exploring the streets and savouring the local cuisine, you can also learn about the city’s history and art by visiting museums and galleries. 

The National Museum is widely regarded as one of the top museums in Tanzania. It takes visitors on an engaging journey through the country’s intriguing history. One of the highlights of your trip will be the Olduvai Gorge archaeological exhibit, which offers a fascinating glimpse into our earliest human history. The museum also features an enlightening exhibit on the slave trade during the colonial period. 

Architecture To The Ocean

Dar es Salaam boasts a fascinating mix of architectural styles, reflecting its colonial, Arab and Indian heritage and modern-day development. You can admire the old colonial buildings in the city centre or marvel at the skyscrapers that adorn the skyline. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting the nearby beaches and islands. On a Dar es Salaam safari, you can bask in the sun, lounge on the city’s pristine white sands, and swim in the warm sea. 

Privately Arranged City Adventures

To fully immerse yourself in this vibrant, energetic and bustling city, we can arrange a private guide to take you around comfortably. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will showcase the finest adventures, historical sites, and cultural and culinary experiences you would want to enjoy. 

Coco Beach

Stunning Coco Beach is in the Oyster Bay area of the city. One of the more famous beaches, it’s known for its white sandy shorelines, clear blue waters, and swaying tropical palm trees. It provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city. 

Botanical Gardens

To enjoy the local nature and plants, you must visit the Botanical Gardens in the city centre. You can observe over 600 plant species, including rare and endangered ones such as the scarlet flame tree, the cycad, and the jacaranda. 

National Museum

The National Museum is an intriguing attraction for those keen on learning about Tanzania’s rich history and diverse culture. The museum boasts remarkable fossil exhibits that showcase our earliest human ancestors, fascinating displays of its challenged colonial past, and an impressive collection of vintage cars. 

Mamboz Corner BBQ

Indulge in succulent, spicy Zanzibari chicken, mouth-watering fried seafood dishes, and local snapper fish specialities at this bustling traditional street food market. The market is close to the finest hotels and is just a six-minute drive to the National Museum.  

Bongoyo Island

Bongoyo Island is a small, uninhabited island and part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve. It’s a popular day trip for swimming, snorkelling, relaxing on the beach, and eating fresh seafood at the island’s restaurant. It’s home to various turtles, dolphins, and fish.  

Dar es Salaam Accommodation 

The city’s size and location ensure many Dar es Salaam accommodation options. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from a wide range of hotels. Our trip planning team would be happy to assist you in selecting the perfect property from our list of partners.

Some valuable tips for visiting Dar es Salaam are: 

• Kiswahili, English, Arabic, and Hindi are the main languages. 
• The city is served by Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), which connects to many domestic and international destinations. Fly directly from major airport hubs like Doha, Dubai, and Amsterdam or other East African cities like Nairobi, Kigali, and Kilimanjaro. 
• You can withdraw Tanzanian shillings from the airport ATMs and around the city. US dollars are also accepted for large purchases or on safari. Still, you will need shillings for more minor expenses like taxi fares. 
• Should you choose this service, a taxi from the airport to the city centre can take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. You can use Uber or regular taxis (look for the white number plates), but ensure you agree on a price before you accept the ride. The best plan is to reserve Dar es Salaam Accommodation with Asilia Africa’s expert assistance, and we will provide a private airport meet-and-greet service and transfer you to your hotel. Our warm and friendly service will make your arrival, departure, and all your exciting Dar activities a stress-free adventure.
  
  

Are you dreaming of an adventure-filled Tanzania safari? We create customised safari itineraries to match your preferences and budget. We support you at every step of your journey, providing the finest advice to make your safari an extraordinary experience. Below are some of our most iconic itineraries to inspire you and start your trip planning. 

Contact us and we will inspire you with exciting ideas to start planning your Dar es Salaam and Tanzania wildlife safari adventures.