Things To Do
in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest city and a vibrant economic hub on the Indian Ocean. It blends Swahili culture, colonial architecture, and modern high-rises along its bustling shoreline. Lively markets, street food stalls, and a thriving arts scene showcase the city’s diverse heritage.
Its coastal setting provides easy access to islands, beaches, and marine adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Julius Nyerere International Airport and feel the warm breeze as you step out. Settle into your hotel in Oyster Bay or Masaki and freshen up. Stroll through the nearby streets to get your first glimpse of the city's rhythm.
Head to the waterfront to explore the iconic Cement Boat, a unique floating café built from a World War II ship design. Wander along Azania Front Lutheran Church and the fish market area, where locals chatter and fishmongers display their catch. Sip a fresh coconut from a street vendor as you watch dhows sail across the harbour.
Dine at The Slipway's waterfront restaurant, sampling grilled seafood while the sun dips below the horizon. Enjoy live Taarab music drifting across the marina and the twinkling lights of Dar's skyline. Toast to the adventure ahead with a refreshing glass of Tanzanian beer.
Begin with an early stroll through the sprawling stalls of Kariakoo Market, where vendors call out prices and produce shimmers under the morning sun. Barter for bright fruit, spices, and colorful fabrics as you embrace the lively energy. Breathe in the scents of cardamom, cloves, and fresh mangoes, and observe the rhythmic flow of locals on their daily errands.
Join a Swahili cooking workshop nearby, learning to prepare classic dishes like pilau rice and mishkaki skewers over charcoal. Chop fresh vegetables and blend spices alongside friendly instructors who share stories of Zanzibar's culinary influences. Then feast on your creations paired with a cold glass of kinywaji chungu (local spiced drink).
Venture to the Kivukoni Fish Market at dusk, where fishermen offload their day's catch amidst a chorus of seagulls. Watch as live prawns and tuna are auctioned under lantern light, and indulge in a plate of freshly grilled octopus. Cap off the night with a stroll along the harbour promenade, gazing at illuminated dhows carved against the starlit sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-6 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-3 |
| 🍺Local beer (bottle) | $2-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local bus (daladala) fare | $0.30-0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal culture and seafood
- Warm, friendly locals
- Easy access to islands and beaches
- Vibrant markets and nightlife
- Heavy traffic congestion
- High humidity and heat
- Unreliable public transport
- Risk of petty theft
- "Jambo" - Hello
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Pole pole" - Slowly/Take it easy
- "Karibu" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Dar es Salaam
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic urban beach with sunsets, fishermen boats, and coastal life.
Colorful boats, yachts and waterfront promenades for nautical shots.
Lush greenery, cottages and native trees ideal for nature photography.
Dynamic market scenes with vibrant colors, produce, and local characters.
Food in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Staple maize porridge served with grilled reef fish; try it at Kivukoni Fish Market.
Must-Try!
Spiced rice cooked with meat, carrots, and raisins; widely available at street vendors.
Marinated beef or chicken kebabs grilled over charcoal; find great versions at city markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, street food stalls selling sambusas and grilled meats.
Seaside market where local fishermen sell fresh catch; try fish steaks grilled on charcoal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a warm handshake and say “Jambo” or “Habari” when meeting locals.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites and local neighborhoods.
Allow elders to be served first and address them with courtesy titles.
Safety
Tipping in Dar es Salaam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for guides and drivers are common.
Cash (Tanzanian shilling) is king in markets; credit cards accepted at upscale hotels, restaurants and some shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, lower humidity, ideal for city tours and beach trips.
Afternoon showers clear quickly; fewer crowds and greener landscapes.
High temperatures and humidity; best for early morning activities.
Heavy rains, muddy roads; some outdoor activities may be limited.
Dar es Salaam at Night
Hiking in Dar es Salaam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
10 km west of the city; forest trails, waterfalls and birdwatching.
Scenic woodland 20 km south; guided walks among ancient trees.
Airports
How to reach Dar es Salaam by plane.
Main international gateway, 12 km from city center; taxis and shuttle buses available.
Ferry terminal for connections to Zanzibar and coastal islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous coastal communities with deep maritime traditions.
People from northern Tanzania working in commerce and services.
Long-standing merchant communities influencing cuisine and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; vibrant local leagues and street games.
Strong community, especially among Indian-Tanzanian residents.
Widely played by women’s teams at clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dar es Salaam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetable curries, coconut stews, and samosas are widely available; inform vendors to omit meat stock.
Most meat is halal; ask at restaurants to confirm meat certification.
Rice-based dishes like pilau and ugali are safe; verify bread and samosa ingredients.