Dar es Salaam is the largest city in East Africa. From its thriving local market to using tuk-tuks to get around, Dar es Salaam offers plenty to see and do. Let’s consider the top 7 excursions and day trips in Dar es Salaam.

1. Head out to the Kariakoo market

Markets are exciting, fun and great places to feel the pulse of many cities. to This is the city’s largest market. It is open every day of the week and it has everything that you would ever need. You will find, vegetables, fruits, meats, fish and eggs, to clothes and hardware tools. The Kariakoo market is arranged into different sections. However, things get a little disorganized as you step out into its outer zones.

2. Take a ferry

Among the very best ways to view the city of Dar es Salaam is to catch a ferry ride. It is affordable and will provide you with an awesome experience as you join the locals getting across the bay. For the best views, climb up to the top deck. Here you can even afford some cool photos with your camera.

Another ferry ride worth doing is the 20-minute ride to the beautiful Bongoyo island, set off the Msasani peninsula. Bongoyo has lovely beaches, good snorkeling and is a great place to spend part of the day.

3. Hire a bike

To get into and across the city, bikes offer a great way to travel. You can hire one at an affordable price and take pictures of anything interesting on the city streets. Just make sure you have a good headlamp in case times get dark and you need to find your way back.

4. The fish market

One of the best ways to get close to the culture in Dar es Salaam is to visit the fish market. It is not hard to find as the market is close to the ferry terminal. Head off to the fish market in the morning when the place comes alive with fishermen coming in with their catch.

Women with huge pots prepare the tasty delicacy and why not have a sit and enjoy a fish breakfast?

5. Mikardi beach

This is the local party zone and every weekend people in Dar es Salaam head out to Mikardi beach. You will need to pay entrance fees at the bars but the beach is open to anyone who is looking for a fun time. Even with the busy city just near, you can easily forget this and feel like you are at a beach resort.

6. Take a stroll in Coco beach

Yet another striking part of town is Coco beach located at the north of Dar es Salaam. Life here is a bit on the higher end with expat posh homes and embassy buildings. However the beach still feels local. You can enjoy some sea food, as well as a refreshing drink at the local bars.

7. Get in a tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are all over the city of Dar es Salaam. You can’t say you made the most of your time in Dar es Salaam without hitching a ride in one of these. They are cheap and fun to get around the city in.