Dar-Es-Salaam

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Dar-Es-Salaam Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1 - 3 days

Best Time: Mid-June to October Read More

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"The Haven of Peace"

Dar-Es-Salaam Tourism

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and commercial hub is a bustling metropolis, located on the east coast of Africa. Approximately 90 kilometers south of the famous Zanzibar Archipelago, it is known for its bustling atmosphere, diverse culture, and vibrant markets. Originally a fishing village in the mid-19th century, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination, boasting significant ports and trading centres. The city offers a range of attractions, from its stunning beaches along the Indian Ocean to its historical landmarks and museums and acts as a gateway to Tanzania's famous national parks.

Key attractions in Dar es Salaam include the National Museum, which houses fossils from the early human ancestors found in Olduvai Gorge, and the Village Museum, offering insights into traditional Tanzanian culture with authentic tribal dwellings and crafts. The city's waterfront is lined with serene beaches like Coco Beach, perfect for relaxation and water activities. Kariakoo Market, one of the largest in East Africa, provides a bustling shopping experience with local crafts, produce, and spices. For nature lovers, Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve offers snorkeling, hiking, and a chance to experience the vibrant marine life.

Dar es Salaam's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors, reflecting its diverse heritage. From street food stalls offering local delicacies like mishkaki (skewered meat) and chipsi mayai (French fry omelet) to upscale restaurants serving Swahili, Indian, and international cuisines, there is something to satisfy every palate. The city's nightlife is equally vibrant, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues where visitors can experience the local music and dance scene.

Whether you're exploring its historical sites, enjoying the coastal beauty, or indulging in its culinary delights, Dar es Salaam promises an enriching and dynamic experience. Its warm hospitality, combined with a blend of old and new, makes it a compelling destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of Tanzanian culture and history.

Must Know Before You Travel to Dar-Es-Salaam

  • Gateway to Zanzibar and Safaris: While not a top destination by itself, Dar es Salaam is a common stopover for travellers heading to Zanzibar, safaris, and nearby islands and activities like scuba diving.
  • Safety Warning for Self-Driving: It's not safe to drive in Dar es Salaam due to reckless driving and traffic congestion.
  • Transportation Options: Use Uber or Bolt for cheaper and safer rides, or opt for the city's modern Bus Rapid Transit system, autorickshaws, minibuses, or motorcycle taxis.
  • Ferry Scam Alert: Be cautious of scams at the ferry dock to Zanzibar, where taxi drivers may take you to the wrong booth, resulting in inflated prices for a slow ferry ride.

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Travel Tips for Dar-Es-Salaam

  • Airport Taxis: To get better prices, avoid paying in USD and opt for Tanzanian Shillings. It will then cost around 30,000TSH.
  • Foreign Currency Exchange: Carry a hard currency that can be exchanged at the airport Bureau de Change, if necessary, but note that it is not available 24 hours.
  • Leaving for the Airport: Factor in heavy traffic, especially during evening rush hour (extends to 08:00 PM), and leave plenty of time for the trip back to the airport.
  • Bus Travel Safety: Keep valuables and bags containing valuables with you during bus travel, as thefts can occur, especially if the passenger steps off the bus.
  • Parking Fee: When parking on the street, lock your doors and leave. A parking attendant may approach you for a 300 TSH fee (per hour) with a ticket on your windshield; pay before leaving.
  • Events and Magazines: Stay informed about events through magazines like 'What's Happening in Dar,' 'Advertising Dar,' and 'Tanzania in Your Pocket,' which feature dance and music performances, art openings, movie festivals, and more.
  • City Center Congestion: Dar's city centre is highly congested from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, particularly around Kariakoo Market, where streets are narrow and traffic lights are scarce.
  • Vehicle Safety: Carjackings are uncommon, but keep windows closed and doors locked to prevent theft of valuables. Choose parking spots carefully and consider secured parking lots for overnight stays.
  • Safety at Night: Walking alone at night outside exclusive areas is not advisable for foreigners unfamiliar with the city.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is not potable. Hence, stick to bottled water for drinking.

History of Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally, it was a small fishing village inhabited by the Zaramo people.

In the mid-19th century, the Sultan of Zanzibar established a trading post in the area, and in 1866, the town of Dar es Salaam ("Haven of Peace" in Arabic) was officially founded. During the German colonial period, from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, Dar es Salaam became the capital of German East Africa and experienced significant development.

After World War I, the British took control, and Dar es Salaam became the administrative centre of Tanganyika under British rule. Following Tanzania's independence in 1961, the city became the capital of the newly formed nation. Throughout its history, Dar es Salaam has served as a major port and commercial hub, playing a vital role in trade and commerce in East Africa. Today, it continues to be a dynamic and bustling city, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage and economic significance.

Nightlife in Dar es Salaam

The nightlife in Dar es Salaam is a lively and diverse scene, offering a mix of modern entertainment and cultural experiences. In the evenings, locals and visitors alike head to popular spots like Masaki and Oyster Bay, where a variety of bars, lounges, and nightclubs come alive.
  • The biggest party night happens monthly at Mediterraneo Hotel and Restaurant, attracting a lively crowd of around 500-600 people for an all-night festival of drinking, dancing, and fun.
  • Runway Lounge at Shopper's Plaza is another hot spot to enjoy drinks, lounge, and dance alongside a flamboyant crowd.
  • Sweet Eazy, a vibey restaurant and bar located in a small shopping complex behind The Oyster Bay Hotel, features live music on Saturday nights, providing a cheesy but enjoyable atmosphere.
  • Q Bar, located off Haile Selassie Road, draws a diverse crowd and offers live music, pool tables, and a lively ambience.
  • For a more nostalgic experience, O'Willies Irish Pub on the Water's Edge hosts live music on weekends and is perfect for a great night of drinking.
  • To start the evening early, Level 8 at Kempinski Hotel, down by the waterfront, is an excellent choice.
  • For a more relaxed setting, Coco Beach is the go-to spot, with its beachside bars and restaurants offering enchanting views of the Indian Ocean and mouthwatering seafood dishes.

Shopping in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam offers a vibrant shopping scene with various unique opportunities to explore. Here are some of the best places to shop:
  • Kariakoo Market: Considered the largest market in Dar es Salaam, Kariakoo Market is a bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, and vibrant fabrics, providing an authentic and lively market experience.
  • Uhuru Street (Downtown Dar es Salaam): Known for its huge distribution selection of kangas, a traditional and colourful cloth widely worn and cherished in Tanzanian culture, making it an ideal spot to find authentic Tanzanian textiles.
  • Mwenge Woodcarvers Market: A must-visit for intricately crafted woodcarvings and other artisanal products, showcasing the talent and creativity of Tanzanian artisans.
  • Slipway Arts and Crafts Market: Located at the Slipway Shopping Complex, this market offers an abundance of beautifully crafted artworks, making it an excellent destination for art enthusiasts and those looking for unique pieces.
  • Slipway Sunday Market: Held at the Slipway Shopping Complex every Sunday, this vibrant market offers a wide variety of stalls selling local crafts, artworks, clothing, and more, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs and support local artisans.
  • North Beach (Jangwani Area): Ideal for beachside shopping, visitors can find beachwear, beach accessories, and locally made crafts, adding to the beach getaway experience.
  • Mlimani City Shopping Mall: A modern shopping destination with a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for a contemporary shopping experience.
Visitors can engage in bargaining for better deals at local markets. It is recommended to carry small denominations of Tanzanian shillings for smoother transactions. Shopping in the city offers a chance to support local artisans and take home souvenirs reflecting Tanzania's rich cultural heritage. The diverse markets allow exploration of the country's artistic and cultural diversity, creating a memorable experience.

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How to Reach Dar-Es-Salaam

How to Reach Overview

Dar es Salaam is easily reachable by multiple modes of transport. Being a major city in Tanzania, it also acts as a gateway to many destinations within the county. 

Dar es Salaam is well-connected through various modes of transportation. The city's main airport, Julius Nyerere International Airport, serves as a major gateway, located approximately 12 kilometres (about 7.5 miles) southwest of the city centre, catering to both domestic and international flights. For travellers looking to access the city by road, it is possible to self-drive as well as hire a taxi to reach the city from neighbouring cities and countries. The Ubungo station acts as a central hub for buses travelling to different cities and towns within Tanzania. Long-distance buses offer routes to destinations such as Arusha, Mwanza, and Dodoma, as well as neighbouring countries like Kenya and Zambia. While the city has a limited rail network, train services connect it to some nearby towns and cities, providing an alternative transportation option for certain travellers.

How to reach Dar-Es-Salaam by flight

Dar es Salaam is served by Julius Nyerere International Airport, which is the main airport in Tanzania. It connects the city to various domestic and international destinations. The airport is located approximately 12 kilometres (about 7.5 miles) southwest of the city centre.

Travellers can take a taxi or book a pre-arranged airport transfer to reach the city, and the journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Hotels offer pick-up and drop-off services, or you can use minibuses, ride-hailing apps, or taxis for transportation.

Taxis at the airport charge fixed rates of $30 to the city centre for non-residents. For more affordable options, travellers can walk to the main road and flag a taxi or use ride-hailing apps for a cost of 10,000TSH to 20,000TSH. Minibuses (Daladalas) are available from the opposite side of the road for a cheaper fare, typically 500TSh to the Ubongo bus terminal and 700TSh to the city centre.

You can book international flights on Skyscanner and domestic flights within Tanzania on platforms like Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation, and Auric Air.

How to reach Dar-Es-Salaam by road

Dar es Salaam is well-connected by roads to various cities and towns in Tanzania and neighbouring countries. For example, you can travel from Arusha to Dar es Salaam by road, covering a distance of approximately 540 kilometres (about 335 miles). The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

How to reach Dar-Es-Salaam by train

Tanzania has a limited rail network, and Dar es Salaam is connected to some nearby towns and cities by train. For example, you can travel from Dodoma to Dar es Salaam by train, covering a distance of approximately 450 kilometres (about 280 miles). The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, and there are different classes of train services available to choose from.

You can check all train schedules and book to and from Dar es Salam on Tanzania Railways Corporation.

How to reach Dar-Es-Salaam by bus

Reaching Dar es Salaam by bus is a convenient and popular option for both domestic and international travellers. The Ubungo station is a major hub for buses to various cities. Long-distance buses connect the city to various cities and towns within Tanzania, such as Arusha, Mwanza, and Dodoma, with journey durations ranging from several hours to overnight travel. Additionally, neighbouring countries also have bus services connecting to Dar es Salaam, making it accessible from destinations like Nairobi, Kenya, and Lusaka, Zambia. However, it is recommended to book reputed bus companies.

Most frequently searched routes to Dar-Es-Salaam

Route Name Distance Time
Nairobi to Dar-Es-Salaam 823 km 13 hr 33 mins
Zanzibar to Dar-Es-Salaam 2 - 3 hrs

Dar-Es-Salaam Photos

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FAQs on Dar-Es-Salaam

What is the best time to visit Dar es salaam?

The best time to visit Dar-Es-Salaam is during the months from late June to October, post the rainy spell that leaves most of Tanzania warm, dry and sunny.
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What are the places near Dar es salaam?

The top places near to Dar es salaam are London which is 7488 km from Dar es salaam, Dubai which is located 3960 km from Dar es salaam, Amsterdam which is located 7338 km from Dar es salaam, New york city which is located 12452 km from Dar es salaam, Bali which is located 8355 km from Dar es salaam

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