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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Destination Guide

Dar es Salaam

Tanzania

Best things to do in Dar es Salaam

23 curated attractions in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

June - October

Average temp

27°C/81°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and a key port, is where the Indian Ocean collides with a urban landscape. Its importance as a trade hub shapes its character, with a busy waterfront, markets that offer everything from fresh fish to wood carvings, and a thriving local culture. This city is a mix of modernity and tradition, with universities and museums popping up alongside chaotic marketplaces like Kariakoo. However, once you step away from these focal points, the urban sprawl reveals long stretches of shoreline and plenty of unremarkable spots. While the coast invites day trips to places like Bongoyo Island, most visitors end up exploring the markets and local eateries, primarily drawn by the experience of everyday Tanzanian life.

Who it's for

Ideal for travellers wanting to experience local culture, food, and the daily hustle of a major city. Not great for those seeking luxury or pristine beaches: the public transport is rated poor, and traffic can be a challenge. If you're after a relaxing getaway with easy access to nature, you might want to look elsewhere.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The city centre is walkable but be ready for crowds and uneven sidewalks
  • Julius Nyerere International Airport is about 20 minutes from downtown, depending on traffic
  • Buses exist but are infrequent and unreliable
  • Taxis are available but negotiate the fare beforehand
Kigamboni Beach

Kigamboni Beach

Beaches
Karimjee Hall

Karimjee Hall

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
The Slipway

The Slipway

Entertainment
Dar es Salaam Zoo

Dar es Salaam Zoo

Zoos
University of Dar es Salaam

University of Dar es Salaam

Historic libraries & universities
University of Dar es Salaam Botanical Garden

University of Dar es Salaam Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens
Labyrinth under Vegetable Market

Labyrinth under Vegetable Market

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Dar es Salaam Maritime Museum

Dar es Salaam Maritime Museum

History museums
Kivukoni Fish Market

Kivukoni Fish Market

Food markets & food halls
Mlimani City Shopping Mall

Mlimani City Shopping Mall

Malls & department stores
Bongoyo Island

Bongoyo Island

Islands
Mbudya Island

Mbudya Island

Islands
Kunduchi Wet 'N' Wild Water Park

Kunduchi Wet 'N' Wild Water Park

Water parks
Upanga Jamatkhana

Upanga Jamatkhana

Mosques
Saint Joseph Cathedral

Saint Joseph Cathedral

Religious Sites
Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society

Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society

Art museums & galleries
Kariakoo Market

Kariakoo Market

Local & craft markets
Makumbusho Village Museum

Makumbusho Village Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Mwenge Woodcarvers Market

Mwenge Woodcarvers Market

Local & craft markets
National Museum of Tanzania

National Museum of Tanzania

Cultural
Coco Beach

Coco Beach

Beach
Oyster Bay Shopping Centre

Oyster Bay Shopping Centre

Malls & department stores
Dar es Salaam Fish Market

Dar es Salaam Fish Market

Food markets & food halls

Where to eat in Dar es Salaam

The places worth planning a meal around.

Samaki Samaki

Samaki Samaki

Seafood · $$

★ 4.5 · 6,942 reviews

Dar Fish Market

Dar Fish Market

Seafood, Tanzanian · $20–$40

★ 4.5 · 6,812 reviews

Crafty D's Brewing Co.

Crafty D's Brewing Co.

Tanzanian, American Barbecue · $$

★ 4.6 · 532 reviews

KFC Tanzania

KFC Tanzania

American

★ 4.5 · 450 reviews

Wavuvi Kempu

Wavuvi Kempu

Tanzanian Coastal · $15–$30

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