Welcome to Tanzania’s vibrant coastal metropolis! Dar es Salaam (“Haven of Peace” in Arabic) blends East African culture, Indian Ocean charm, and cosmopolitan energy into an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re using Dar as a gateway to Zanzibar and safari adventures or exploring this dynamic city in its own right, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Tanzania’s largest city like a local.

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest city and economic heart, offering visitors a fascinating mix of African, Arabic, Indian, and colonial influences. While no longer the official capital (that honour goes to Dodoma), Dar remains the country’s commercial and cultural centre.

When to Visit Dar es Salaam

Best time to visit: June to October during the dry season when temperatures hover between 23-30°C with minimal rainfall.

Shoulder seasons: January-February and November offer fewer tourists and slightly lower prices, though February can be quite hot.

Rainy seasons: March-May (long rains) and November-December (short rains) bring humid conditions and occasional downpours, but accommodation prices drop significantly.

Getting to Dar es Salaam

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) serves as Tanzania’s main international gateway with connections to major African cities, Middle Eastern hubs, and select European destinations.

Airlines serving Dar es Salaam: Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, and South African Airways, among others.

Visa information: Most visitors require a visa, which can be obtained in advance or upon arrival ($50 for most nationalities). An e-visa system is available through Tanzania Immigration’s official website.

Getting Around

Taxis: Available throughout the city. Expect to pay $5-15 for trips within central areas. Always negotiate the fare before entering.

Uber & Bolt: Available in Dar es Salaam with generally lower rates than traditional taxis.

Bajajis (tuk-tuks): Three-wheeled vehicles perfect for short distances, typically $1-3 per trip.

Daladalas: Local minibuses that run set routes, extremely affordable (less than $1), but often crowded and can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Car hire: Available from $40 per day. International driving permits are recognised.

Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam

Luxury Accommodations in Dar es Salaam

Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro
Located on the picturesque seafront, this five-star hotel offers stunning views of Dar es Salaam Harbour. Amenities include a spa, an infinity pool, and multiple dining options.
Price range: $250-450 per night

Serena Hotel Dar es Salaam
Elegant property blending Swahili coastal architecture with modern luxury. Features beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and exceptional service.
Price range: $220-350 per night

Mid-Range Accommodation in Dar es Salaam

Best Western Plus Peninsula Hotel
Conveniently located in the Masaki peninsula area, offering comfortable rooms, good value, and a rooftop restaurant with city views.
Price range: $120-180 per night

Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam
Modern hotel with well-appointed rooms, swimming pool, and reliable Wi-Fi in the city centre.
Price range: $100-150 per night

Budget-Friendly Stays in Dar es Salaam

New Africa Hotel
Historic hotel in the city centre with decent amenities and an unbeatable location for exploring downtown Dar.
Price range: $70-100 per night

Sleep Inn Hotel
Clean, simple accommodation with air conditioning and breakfast included.
Price range: $45-80 per night

Backpacker Options

Smile Backpackers
Friendly hostel with dormitory and private room options, communal kitchen, and helpful staff.
Price range: $15-40 per night

Tanzania Backpackers
Social atmosphere with organised activities and tours departing regularly.
Price range: $12-35 per night

Where to Eat in Dar es Salaam

Fine Dining

The Terrace Restaurant
Upscale dining experience at the Hyatt Regency with international cuisine and spectacular harbour views. Try their seafood platter featuring locally caught fish.
Price range: $25-50 per person

Akemi Revolving Restaurant
Located on the 21st floor of the PSPF Tower, offering 360° views of the city while dining on fusion cuisine.
Price range: $20-45 per person

Mid-Range Restaurants

Cape Town Fish Market
South African chain offering excellent seafood and sushi in a stylish setting at the Slipway complex.
Price range: $15-30 per person

Zuane Restaurant
Italian cuisine with authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes.
Price range: $12-25 per person

Local Eats

Mamboz Corner BBQ
Legendary street food spot serving incredible chicken and meat skewers (mishkaki) with spicy chips.
Price range: $3-8 per person

Chef’s Pride
Popular with locals, offering generous portions of Tanzanian dishes including pilau (spiced rice) and various stews.
Price range: $4-10 per person

Cafés & Coffee Shops

Africafe
Cosy café serving Tanzanian coffee and light meals with a modern twist.
Price range: $5-12 per person

Épices Café
French-inspired patisserie with excellent pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
Price range: $4-10 per person

What to Do in Dar es Salaam

Top Attractions

National Museum & House of Culture
Explore Tanzania’s rich history from ancient fossils to the colonial era and independence.
Entrance fee: $6 for foreigners

Askari Monument
A historic bronze statue commemorating African troops who fought in World War I, located in the city centre.
Free to visit

St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Beautiful German Gothic-style cathedral dating back to 1902 with impressive stained glass windows.
Free to visit (donations appreciated)

Kariakoo Market
Vibrant, sprawling market offering everything from spices and fabrics to electronics. The true pulse of local commerce.
Free to enter, but keep valuables secure

Beaches & Outdoor Activities

Coco Beach (Oyster Bay)
Popular city beach with local food vendors and weekend entertainment. Not ideal for swimming, but perfect for people-watching.
Free to visit

South Beach (Kigamboni)
A more relaxed beach accessible by ferry from the city. Cleaner waters and less crowded than city beaches.
Ferry cost: $0.50 each way

Bongoyo Island
Day trip to this uninhabited island marine reserve with clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
Boat transfer: $20-30 round trip

Cultural Experiences

Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative
Watch artists creating Tanzania’s famous colourful paintings and purchase directly from the creators.
Free to visit

Village Museum
Open-air ethnographic museum displaying traditional dwellings from various Tanzanian ethnic groups.
Entrance fee: $5 for foreigners

Slipway Shopping Centre
Waterfront complex with craft shops, restaurants, and weekend markets selling local handicrafts.
Free to browse

Day Trips from Dar es Salaam

Bagamoyo
A historic coastal town and former capital with well-preserved German colonial buildings and slave trade history.
Distance: 75km (approximately 1.5 hours)

Mikumi National Park
The closest national park to Dar is where visitors can experience a safari with lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
Distance: 300km (approximately 4 hours) Park fees: $30 per person per day

Zanzibar
While deserving of its own multi-day trip, it’s possible to visit Stone Town as a long day trip via ferry.
Ferry cost: $35-50 each way (2 hours)

Shopping in Dar es Salaam

Souvenirs & Crafts

Wonder Workshop
Social enterprise selling unique recycled metal sculptures and crafts made by artists with disabilities.

Mwenge Carvers Market
Largest woodcarving market in the country with hundreds of artisans selling Makonde carvings, masks, and furniture.

Slipway Craft Market
Weekend market with higher quality crafts, clothing, and jewellery in a pleasant setting.

Malls & Modern Shopping

City Centre Shopping Mall
Air-conditioned mall with international and local brands in the heart of downtown.

Mlimani City Mall
Largest shopping complex in Tanzania with a cinema, a supermarket, and diverse shopping options.

Practical Information for First-Time Visitors to Dar es Salaam

Safety Tips

Dar es Salaam is relatively safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply:

• Avoid displaying valuable items and walking alone at night
• Use reputable taxis or rideshare apps after dark
• Be vigilant in crowded areas like Kariakoo Market
• Stay in well-lit, populated areas

Language Basics

Swahili is Tanzania’s national language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Some useful phrases:

• “Jambo” – Hello
• “Asante” – Thank you
• “Habari?” – How are you?
• “Ndiyo/Hapana” – Yes/No
• “Samahani” – Excuse me/Sorry

Health Information

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from endemic countries
• Malaria prophylaxis recommended
• Drink only bottled or purified water
• Major hospitals: Aga Khan Hospital and Muhimbili National Hospital

Internet & Connectivity

• Purchase a local SIM card from providers like Vodacom, Airtel, or Tigo for affordable data
• Most hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi
• Internet cafés are available throughout the city

Unique Experiences in Dar es Salaam

Hidden Gems

Coco Beach Sunday Sunset
Join locals for impromptu music, food, and socialising as the sun sets each Sunday.

Kivukoni Fish Market (early morning)
Watch fishing dhows arrive and the bustling auction of the night’s catch from 6-8 am.

Kigamboni Ferry Experience
Take the local ferry used by commuters crossing to South Beach for an authentic slice of daily life.

Seasonal Events

Sauti za Busara (February)
The music festival is primarily held in Zanzibar, but with satellite events in Dar.

Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Saba Saba) (July)
Massive exhibition showcasing products from across East Africa.

Nyama Choma Festival (Various dates)
Celebration of Tanzania’s barbecue culture with music and food.

Responsible Tourism

Support local communities and minimise environmental impact:

• Use reef-safe sunscreen when visiting marine areas
• Respect local customs and dress modestly when away from beach areas
• Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans when possible
• Consider carbon offset programs for flights to Tanzania

Budget Planning for Dar es Salaam

Daily Budget Guidelines

Budget traveller: $30-50 per day Mid-range: $100-200 per day Luxury: $250+ per day

Money Matters

• The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the local currency
• Major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards
• ATMs are widely available in city centres
• Tipping (5-10%) is appreciated for good service, but not mandatory

Final Tips

• Dar es Salaam’s name means “Haven of Peace” – embrace the relaxed pace
• Allow extra time for transportation, as traffic can be heavy
• The city is hot year-round – stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
• Tanzanians are friendly and helpful – don’t hesitate to ask for directions or assistance

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveller, Dar es Salaam’s blend of urban energy, coastal charm, and cultural richness offers something for everyone. From its bustling markets to tranquil island escapes just offshore, this East African hub invites you to experience the genuine warmth of Tanzania.

Last updated: May 2025