Dar Es Salaam

In Tanzania’s former capital, you’ll find restaurants, shops, markets, and museums that are all worth exploring. This bustling melting pot of cultures blends European, Arab, Asian, and, of course, African and Tanzanian influences into one vibrant city.

A Lively, Historical City

With 4.3 million residents, Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest city. Although no longer the capital, it remains the country’s economic hub and boasts its most important port. Key exports like coffee, cotton, and hides pass through here, though many of these "Made in Tanzania" products are sold locally at colourful markets. Keep your eyes open, and you’ll uncover a city steeped in history amidst the chaos and energy.

In the early 20th century, Dar es Salaam was a vital connection between the agricultural mainland and the trade routes along the Indian Ocean and Swahili Coast during German colonial rule. Today, remnants of German and British influences are still visible.

A great way to learn more about this history is by taking a walking or cycling tour along the city’s waterfront. Highlights include the National Museum, Village Museum, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, White Father’s Mission House, the Botanical Gardens, and the Old State House.

Paradise Beaches Close By

In addition to its history, Dar es Salaam offers tropical beaches where you can relax in the warm sand. Visit South Beach just outside the city centre or take a boat trip to Bongoyo Island, a paradise just two hours north of the city.

Dar es Salaam is also well connected to other coastal gems like Bagamoyo, Pangani, and Tanga. From here, you can catch a ferry to the famous Zanzibar or fly within an hour to Pemba or Mafia Island. For safari enthusiasts, the stunning and less touristy parks of Ruaha, Mikumi, and Selous are also easily accessible

The History of Dar es Salaam

The city was once called Mzizima, meaning "Healthy Town," before being annexed by the Sultan of Zanzibar, who renamed it Dar es Salaam, or "House of Peace." It’s a fitting name for this vibrant hub, often referred to as "Heaven of Peace."

With the largest port in East Africa, Dar es Salaam has long been Tanzania’s biggest city, offering sweeping views of the azure Indian Ocean and a selection of fantastic beaches just a stone’s throw away.

6 Things to Do in Dar es Salaam

Fashion lovers, take note

1. Shop at Kariakoo Market

Kariakoo Market is your go-to spot! Here, you can buy anything from colourful kitenge fabrics to “really real” iPhone cables and knock-off designer handbags. Try some fried crickets or grab a coffee at one of the many small cafés and delis scattered throughout.

2. Visit the Botanical Gardens

Need a break from the crowds? Explore Dar es Salaam’s Botanical Gardens, established in 1893 by German colonisers to showcase the exotic plants and flowers they discovered. Though slightly weathered and worn, the gardens retain their colonial charm and feature a variety of unique plant species.

3. Explore the Fish Market

For just 200 Tanzanian Shillings (about £0.10), take the ferry and admire Dar’s skyline from the water—a scene that evokes New York City vibes, almost like heading to Ellis Island. The ferry drops you off near the fish market, where you’ll find the freshest and most beautiful seafood in Tanzania. Perfect for grilling over a beach bonfire!

4. Dance the Night Away

Dar es Salaam has an electric nightlife. Mikardi Beach, Oyster Bay, and the bohemian Coco Beach are great spots to party. Check out clubs and bars like Triniti Bar, High Spirit (with fantastic views), and Mbalamwezi Beach Club. Level 8 Bar at the Hyatt Hotel is renowned and highly recommended. For a late-night meal or cocktail, head to The Waterfront. If you love beer, Lavender Garden Hall offers a beer garden complete with German sausages.

5. Discover "Reality by Night"

Experience Dar’s local hotspots by night with a guide. Begin with a delicious dinner in the Indian quarter, enjoying street food with fresh sugarcane, lime, and ginger juice. Then head to the Mango Park Garden in Dar’s oldest district, where the sounds of 1960s Afro-Cuban and Rhumba music fill the air. Dance to live Tanzanian and Congolese music from Twanga Pepeta. Finally, visit Traventine Magomeni, known as “The Mother of All Hoods,” for Arab music from Zanzibar’s sultanate era and rhythmic FM Academia tunes at Makumbusho.

6. Relax at Mikardi Beach

Grill your freshly bought fish over a fire at Mikardi Beach, just south of the city. It’s hard to believe this serene spot is so close to the bustling metropolis. You can also camp here, with the added bonus of witnessing a stunning sunrise. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a night of partying.

Sleep Tight, Dar

After a day of shopping, sightseeing, and dancing, it’s time to rest. Dar es Salaam has countless hotels, eco-lodges, and Airbnbs. Oyster Bay and Coco Beach are lovely neighbourhoods to stay in, but Kigamboni offers great apartments too. For something special, consider Alexander’s or a cosy eco-lodge nearby.

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Dar Es Salaam

A Lively, Historical City

Paradise Beaches Close By

The History of Dar es Salaam