Dar es Salaam, the former capital of Tanzania, is a beautiful city that also serves as a gateway to the southern safari circuit as well as the Zanzibar Archipelago. It’s a port city, making it a commercial hub of Tanzania.
Here are 7 awesome things you must do when in Dar es Salaam:
- Check out the Village Museum
The Village Museum is a fascinating museum in which different huts are displayed and decorated with traditional tribe crafts. Each hut represents a unique tribe that’s found in Tanzania. You can go inside the huts and explore the different items there.
Moreover, cultural dances also take place here, which you can enjoy for free.
- Take a day trip to Bongoyo Island
About a 20-minute ferry ride from the coast of Dar, Bongoyo Island is a beautiful and pristine island where you can go to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can bring your own food there and set up a picnic as well. Moreover, you can rent bandas (huts) there that provide you with shade on the beach.
- Head over to the National Museum and House of Culture
Check out the history of slave trading and the story of human evolution at this beautiful Museum. You should hire a guide so that you can learn about the interesting slave trade that was very popular in Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania!
- Go shopping at Kariakoo Market
Kariakoo Market is a lively market that you must visit, even if you don’t need to shop for anything. The market allows you to interact with the locals, buy souvenirs and experience what it’s like to be an East African, even if just for a little bit. If you do plan on purchasing something, make sure you bargain for it!
- Have fun at Coco Beach
Coco beach is a popular beach among the locals and you’ll see families playing volleyball and other sports at the beach. It’s a great place to chill, relax and mingle with the locals!
- Check out the Mwenge Woodcarver’s Market
The Mwenge Woodcarvers’ Market is a fascinating market where you’ll be surprised by the skillset that the locals possess! All of the masks and structures there are hand-carved and each has a unique story behind it. You can shop for souvenirs as well while you’re there.
- Head over to the Tanzanite Dream
Tanzania is home to a beautiful and unique gem, Tanzanite, that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The purplish-blue gem is a rare beauty and can only be found here. You can incorporate it into pieces of jewelry and gift them to your loved ones.
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Dar es Salaam and have a great time exploring the wonderful city! While you’re there, don’t forget to check out these top 10 Tanzania travel tips!