Dar-es-Salaam is a bustling city in Tanzania, known as the commercial hub of the East African region. The modern city is well-known for its cultural heritage while also representing the region as a major city, having one of the busiest ports in Africa. Dar-es-Salaam is an exciting city to explore, and its location makes it perfect for many excursions. The 10 best day trips from Dar-es-Salaam include:

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is a beautiful national park home to various fauna and flora. The park is the fourth-largest in Tanzania and is a fun adventure for game viewing. It is also accessible since the development of a road from the city to the main gate. The road has put Mikumi National Park on the radar of many tourists.

Bagamoyo

Bagamoyo is a historic town situated 58.8 kilometers from Dar-es-Salaam. Although the town has a dark history, it has become an iconic representation of how far Tanzania and the Swahili people have come. It used to be a location for the slave trade. It is now a place for tourists to explore the narrow streets and beautiful architecture that depict the heritage of the locals.

Sinda Island

Sinda Island is one of Dar-es-Salaam’s exotic islands. You will take a dhow to sail from Kipepeo Beach Village to Sinda Island, where you can relax on the beautiful white sand or go snorkeling to explore the colorful marine life. Sinda Island is the perfect getaway from the crowds of the city.

Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is approximately 220 kilometers from Dar-es-Salaam. It is yet another mesmerizing park to visit from Dar-es-Salaam with a magnificent collection of wildlife.

Selous Game Reserve

Close to Nyerere National Park, the Selous Game Reserve covers 50,000 square kilometers of untouched land. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to elephants, black rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, and many other exotic animals.

Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park is slightly further away, located approximately 302 kilometers from Dar-es-Salaam. It is the only park in Tanzania that borders the sea. Previously known as the Saadani Game Reserve, the national park covers more than 1,000 square kilometers.

Ruaha National Park

Although Ruaha National Park is only 320 kilometers from Dar-es-Salaam, it will take 10 hours to reach the National Park due to the road conditions. However, the trip is worth the time and effort because it is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful national parks. The park spans more than 20,000 square kilometers, with thrilling and exotic biodiversity.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park

This national park is approximately a six-hour drive from Dar-es-Salaam. The beautiful park is more famous for its mesmerizing hiking trails and the breathtaking tropical rainforest. Although you will get to see an array of birdlife, the park’s natural setting will make you want to spend more time here.

Mafia Island Marine Park

Mafia Island is a scuba diver’s paradise. You can take a flight or a dhow cruise to the stunning Mafia Island. With beautiful, white sandy beaches, and the breathtaking Indian Ocean expanding into the horizon, Mafia Island is a sight to behold.

Pande Game Reserve

Pande Game Reserve is situated on the outskirts of Dar-es-Salaam. The vast game reserve covers various landscapes, including a low sandstone ridge. You will also get to see an exciting and fantastic collection of wildlife.

Dar-es-Salaam is a great place to visit and a perfect location for many day-trip excursions. However, planning your trip is crucial. You need to know about the Best Time To Visit Tanzania in 2021.