Overview
Harbour of Peace
Dar es Salaam, meaning "Harbour of Peace," is Tanzania's largest and most dynamic city. Located along the Indian Ocean, it is the country’s commercial capital and a melting pot of cultures, history, and modern development. Originally a small fishing village, Dar es Salaam has evolved into one of Africa’s fastest-growing urban centers, boasting a bustling port, thriving business districts, and a rich cultural heritage. Though the official capital shifted to Dodoma, Dar remains the economic and social heartbeat of Tanzania. Originates from the Arabic "Bandar-ul-Salaam," meaning "Port of Peace”, Declared a township in 1920, became a municipality in 1949, and gained city status in 1961. Served as Tanzania’s capital until the 1970s; remains the commercial epicenter. Covers 1,393 sq km with a projected population of 15.6 million by 2050. Key hub for trade, finance, and tourism in East Africa. Home to over 575 industries, Central Bank, commercial banks, insurance firms, and more.
City Attractions
Dar es Salaam offers a mix of cultural landmarks, museums, and lively coastal scenes perfect for every traveler.
- National Museum: Showcasing Tanzania’s archaeological finds and cultural history
- Village Museum: Displays traditional homes and dances from different tribes
- Askari Monument: Iconic bronze statue commemorating WWI African soldiers
- Historic Churches: Visit Azania Lutheran Church and St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- Coco Beach: Popular local hangout with music, food, and ocean breezes
- Kivukoni Fish Market: A vibrant, authentic seafood market by the harbor
- Tanzanite Bridge: Offers panoramic views and connects key parts of the city
When to Visit
Plan your trip around the city’s warm climate and cultural calendar to enjoy the best of Dar es Salaam.
- June to October: Dry season; ideal for outdoor and beach activities
- November to December: Short rains, generally warm and pleasant
- March to May: Long rains; less crowded but may limit outdoor excursions, Average temperature: 29ºC, with highs up to 35ºC from October to March.
Excursion and Activities in Dar es Salaam
Explore a wide range of activities—from island hopping to cultural discovery and city sightseeing.
- Island Escapes: Bongoyo, Mbudya, and Fungu Yasini are perfect for snorkelling and sunbathing
- Walking Tours: Uncover hidden gems, markets, and colonial-era architecture
- Beach Time: Enjoy relaxing on Coco Beach or Kigamboni’s quieter shores
- Cultural Tours: Engage with Swahili heritage and local community experiences
- Nightlife: Discover bars, clubs, and live music across the city
Where to stay
Accommodation options in Dar es Salaam range from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses for all travel budgets.
- Luxury: Hyatt Regency, Serena Hotel, Johari Rotana
- Mid-range: Coral Beach Hotel, Sea Cliff, Protea by Marriott
- Budget: Numerous guesthouses, hostels, and B\&Bs throughout the city
- Beach Resorts: Found along Kigamboni and Mbezi coastline.
Where to Eat
Taste the flavors of Dar with diverse culinary options that blend local and global influences.
- Local Delicacies: Enjoy Swahili dishes such as samaki wa kupaka (coconut fish), pilau, and chipsi mayai
- Seafood: Freshly caught seafood served grilled, fried, or in rich curries
- International Cuisines: Restaurants offering Indian, Chinese, Lebanese, Italian, and more
- Street Eats: Try popular snacks like mishkaki (skewered meat), urojo (Zanzibar mix), and sugarcane juice
- Dining Hotspots: Visit Masaki, Mikocheni, Oyster Bay, and Slipway for top dining experiences
How to get around
Navigate the city easily with various transport options that suit different needs and preferences.
- Taxis: Available citywide; negotiate before the ride
- Bajaji (Tuk-Tuks): Convenient and inexpensive for short distances
- Daladalas (Mini-buses): Cheap and widely used by locals
- Ferries: Cross the Kigamboni channel quickly and affordably
- Car Rentals & Ride Apps: Services like Bolt and Little Cab are accessible
Getting there
Getting to Dar es Salaam is easy thanks to excellent air, road, and sea connections.
By Air:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) welcomes global airlines such as Emirates, KLM, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian, and more
By Road:
- Well-paved highways connect Dar with Dodoma, Arusha, Morogoro, and Tanga
By Sea:
- Regular ferries operate between Dar and Zanzibar; ports also serve cargo and cruise ships
NOTE:- Whether you're here for business, leisure, or transit, Dar es Salaam promises a memorable stay full of vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and coastal charms.
