The former capital of Tanzania and the gateway to the beautiful islands of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is a lively and bustling city full of activities and interesting places for you to explore.
This expert guide on Dar es Salaam is an all-in-one guide that you need to explore the city on your own!
Where to Stay
Being the former capital of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam has excellent accommodation options ranging from low budget to high-end. Here are some of the best places to stay in Dar es Salaam:
- Mediterraneo Hotel
If budget isn’t a problem, head over to Mediterraneo Hotel! It’s one of the best in the city. Facilities provided include a gym, swimming pool, restaurant, playground, lounge, bar and conference rooms. They have comfortable rooms ideal for honeymooners!
- Oyster Bay Hotel
Oyster Bay Hotel has a central location at Coco Beach. The Hotel provides an indoor pool, scenic views, a bar, restaurants and a gym!
- Hotel Slipway
Located just by the Slipway Center, this hotel has an extraordinary location by the shore. If you plan on going to Bongoyo Island from Dar es Salaam, it’s best to stay here because it’s close to the Bongoyo Island Ferry Terminal.
- Serena Hotel
A wonderful 5-star hotel located at the heart of Dar es Salaam, Serena Hotel offers an outdoor pool, spa, extensive gardens, conference centers, limousine service, gift shop, and a business center. Staying here is a luxurious experience!
- Kunduchi Beach Resort
The Kunduchi Beach Resort is located just by the shore, on the outskirts of the main city. It’s a magnificent resort with wonderful views of the Indian Ocean. The Kunduchi Beach Resort is located next to the Kunduchi Wet and Wild Water Park.
- Double Tree Hotel
If you’re on a tight budget, the Double Tree Hotel is the best fit for you. It’s located near the Slipway Center, giving you easy access to Bongoyo Island.
Sightseeing and Activities in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam has a lot of sightseeing options for you. It’s one of the most important cities of Tanzania, home to numerous historically significant places. Here are some of the best activities and sightseeing spots in Dar:
- Askari Monument
The Askari Monument is an important landmark in Dar that was built as a tribute to the Askari African soldiers that took part in World War I. The monument consists of a soldier holding a rifle on a pedestal. All sides of the pedestal are covered with plates containing inscriptions and memorial drawings.
- National Museum and House of Culture
Explore African art and history at this wonderful and informative museum. Its displays on the evolution of mankind are stunning. There’s also an entire section devoted to the history of the slave trade in Tanzania.
- Village Museum
The Village Museum is a walk-in museum consisting of different huts. Each hut is furnished with cultural items from many different Tanzanian ethnic tribes! You can enter the huts and explore the items. It’s a fun and interesting museum. You can also watch interesting cultural dances at the museum.
- Saint Joseph Cathedral and Azania Front Lutheran Church
Both these buildings hold immense historical and religious significance. They were built by German missionaries toward the end of the 19th century. The architectural style of the buildings is impressive and worth observing!
- Oyster Bay
Oyster Bay, also known as Coco Beach, is the local beach in Dar es Salaam. It’s usually filled with locals so it’s a nice and cheap beach where you can interact with the locals and get to learn more about their culture. It’s not uncommon to come across boys playing volleyball and other sports by the beach.
- Kariakoo Market
Shop for souvenirs and local crafts at this bustling, lively market! You’ll find everything here ranging from crockery to clothes. Make sure you bargain for your purchase, though!
- Bongoyo Island
Bongoyo Island is a beautiful island that gives you a peaceful escape from Dar’s busy city life. Take a ferry from the Slipway Center and head over to Bongoyo Island, which is just 30 minutes away! You can have a picnic here and bring your own food or order the food from the restaurant at Bongoyo.
Best Places to Eat Out
The local Swahili cuisine in Tanzania is mouthwatering and delicious! Try to eat out as much as you can because you’ll miss the food so much when you’re back home. Here are some of the best restaurants to try in Dar es Salaam:
- 305 Karafuu
This wonderful restaurant gives off artistic vibes! You’ll feel at home here. It’s decorated with artwork made by local artists (for you to purchase!) and the rustic furnishing just adds to the beauty of the place. The open kitchen ensures that all the food is prepared under strict hygienic conditions!
Best items to try: Steaks and King Prawn Curry.
- Mamboz Corner BBQ
The best place to try reasonable, rich-flavored, authentic Tanzanian barbecue!
The aroma makes the food irresistible. Don’t forget to try their Mishkaki. It’s not a proper restaurant but just a few tables and chairs laid out, so don’t expect a fancy dining experience.
- Chef’s Pride
Head over to Chef’s Pride to try authentic Swahili food. It’s a great place to chill and hang out with your friends.
Best items to try: Ugali, Ndizi Nyama, and Maandazis.
- The Waterfront
This restaurant offers scenic views of the Indian Ocean along with an amazing dining experience. It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset!
Best items to try: calamari rings, pizza, pilau, prawns and cocktails.
- Akemi Revolving Restaurant
This place is a must visit! After all, what’s better than getting 360-degree views of the entire city while dining at one spot? The food is also worth the visit!
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Dar es Salaam and explore Tanzania with Flightlink. We’re here to make sure your travel is made comfortable, safe and enjoyable!