Dar es Salaam, the former capital of Tanzania, is a city bustling with life. No moment in Dar is dull owing to the numerous activities available at this tourist hub.
Here are 20 awesome things to do in Dar es Salaam:
- Buy the best bargains from Kariakoo Market
Kariakoo market is a busy local market with everything you’ll need ranging from clothes to spices and even crockery! Buy souvenirs or clothes from this market and don’t forget to bargain for a fair price.
- Check out the Askari Monument
The Askari Monument was built as a tribute to the African soldiers that took part in World War One. It has inscriptions and drawings on all four sides of the plaque that supports the monument. It’s located on a busy roundabout and you’re very likely to come across the monument on your tour of the city.
- Explore Azania Front Lutheran Church
The Azania Front Lutheran Church was built by German missionaries. The architecture and overall look of the church are worth a visit!
- Visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Another building from the German times, this cathedral has an impressive exterior as well as an interior.
- Interact with the locals at Coco Beach
Coco beach, unlike other beaches in Tanzania, is usually filled with locals. Thus, you get many opportunities to interact with the locals at this beach. Occasionally, you might even spot boys playing volleyball or other sports here.
- Enjoy delicious street food!
Tanzania’s street food is to die for. Don’t forget to try samosas, chipsi mayai and other delicious food while roaming the streets of Dar.
- Buy Tingatinga art from the Tingatinga Art Center
Tingatinga art is a special form of art that originates from Tanzania. Purchase beautiful art pieces and support the locals at this amazing art center! After all, there’s immense economic potential of tourism in Tanzania and it’s one of the biggest means of income for a majority of the population.
- Support local craftsmen at the Mwenge Wood Carver’s Village
Craftsmen at the Wood Carver’s Village work day and night to make ends meet. Their love for wood crafts sets them apart. Buy a piece or two from them and support the locals!
- Explore the Village Museum
Unlike traditional museums, the village museum is an interactive museum that consists of different huts, each representing different tribes. Explore the objects in the huts and enjoy the live cultural dances that take place there!
- Head over to Bongoyo Island
Get a ferry from the Slipway Center and head over to Bongoyo Island for some fun! The island is beautiful and you’ll have a great time there.
- Visit the National Museum
The National Museum & House of Culture is an extensive and amazing museum that not only contains important information about the history of Tanzania, but also on the history of mankind itself. Some of the oldest remains of humans have been found in Tanzania, making it an excellent place to learn about the history of mankind.
- Shop for the Tanzanite gem
The Tanzanite gem can only be found in Tanzania so it’s a good idea to go shopping for it!
- Buy fish from the Kivukoni Fish Market
Wake up early and head over to the Kivukoni Fish Market to purchase some fresh catch straight from the ocean!
- Head over to the Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens have a beautiful display of plants and it’s definitely worth the visit, especially if you’re a fan of nature.
- Buy souvenirs from the Slipway Centre
The Slipway Center is an excellent shopping hub and provides a much more peaceful environment than the Kariakoo Market. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds while shopping, head over to this Center!
- Ride on a tuk-tuk
No trip to Tanzania is complete without riding a tuk-tuk. Your ride is going to be fun, adventurous and noisy!
- Explore Dar’s Nightlife
Dar es Salaam is home to many nightclubs and bars, making it a great city for those who love dancing into the night.
- Enjoy beautiful views of the city with scrumptious food at the Akemi Revolving Restaurant
What better way to view Dar es Salaam than from a tall, revolving restaurant while munching your favorite food? Head over to this spectacular restaurant and enjoy the beautiful views.
- Observe beautiful architecture by taking a walk on Temple Road
Temple Road has many Hindu temples, all of which are beautifully constructed. Observe the Hindu culture and explore the wonderful architecture!
- Have some fun at the Kunduchi Water Park
There’s no better way to spend some quality time with your family and friends than having some water fun!
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Dar es Salaam and have a great time!