Dar es Salaam

Introducing Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is the largest city and port in Tanzania, and is also the country's economic and cultural center and an important port in East Africa.

Climate and best time to travel

Due to its low latitude and the influence of the Indian Ocean monsoon, Dar es Salaam enjoys a hot and humid climate, with an average annual temperature of 25.8°C. A characteristic of the city's meteorology is that the daily temperature range (10°C) is greater than the annual range (4°C). Dar es Salaam enjoys abundant rainfall and abundant surface water, with an average annual precipitation of 1,100 mm. The rainy season runs from April to September, while the dry season runs from October to March. The climate is quite hot; even during the scorching heat of the sun, temperatures can reach around 45°C. The heaviest rainfall occurs from March to June, with 32 to 48 days of thunderstorms annually. With global climate anomalies, this norm is slowly changing. While there are no torrential downpours during the rainy season, the frequent downpours during the dry season have remained commonplace, a fact that has become commonplace for many people.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tarunkille National Park

Tarangire National Park is located in northern Tanzania, just 115 kilometers from the tourist city of Arusha. It's accessible directly by beautiful paved road, just off the Arusha-Dodoma highway. It covers approximately 2,600 square kilometers.

The park takes its name from the Tarangire River, which runs through it, creating a haven for wildlife during the dry season. During Tanzania's dry season, which runs from June to October, thousands of animals such as antelope, zebra, elephant, eland, buffalo, and wildebeest migrate from the arid Maasai region to the Tarangire River. Naturally, carnivores like lions also flock to join in the fun.

Lake Mayara National Park

Lake Mayara National Park is located west of Arusha on Highway 156, nestled beneath the famous East African Rift Valley. It covers an area of ​​330 square kilometers, 230 square kilometers of which are water-covered.

The park's most remarkable sight is the tree-climbing lions, which laze in the branches of acacia trees, appearing to be at ease. Other animals seen in the area include elephants, leopards, impalas, hippos, and countless birds, including pelicans and flamingos. The park has the highest elephant density per square kilometer of any national park in Tanzania.

Ngorongoro National Park

The Ngorongoro Crater is 2,286 meters above sea level and is the largest and most complete crater in the world.

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Most Popular FAQs for Dar es Salaam

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dar es Salaam, once a fishing village, became a major port during German and later British colonial rule. It served as Tanzania’s capital until 1973 and remains the largest city and economic hub, known for trade, culture, and as a gateway to Zanzibar and safari destinations.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dar es Salaam is on Tanzania’s east coast along the Indian Ocean. It is accessible by Julius Nyerere International Airport. Within the city, travel is mainly by taxi, bajaji (auto rickshaw), dala-dala (minibuses), or ride-hailing apps. Walking is suitable for short distances in central areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Markets and shops generally open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Best time to visit is the dry season (June to October) when humidity is lower and beach trips are pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• National Museum: about 6,000–12,000 TZS (2–5 USD).
• Island ferries/boat trips: 20–30 USD per person.
• Most tickets are purchased onsite, cash preferred; online booking is not common.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is usually required, except for island tours, which are better arranged a day or two ahead through hotels or local tour operators.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• City highlights: 1–2 days.
• Beach or island excursion: full day each.
• Markets and museums: half-day each.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• National Museum of Tanzania.
• Kariakoo Market.
• Coco Beach and Slipway.
• Bongoyo and Mbudya Islands.
• Mwenge Carvers Market for local handicrafts.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided city and cultural tours are available in English, Swahili, and sometimes German, French, or Italian through local agencies. Museums may have English-speaking guides but rarely audio guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Sunset views at Coco Beach.
• Harbor views from Slipway.
• City skyline from ferry rides to the islands.
• Historic Askari Monument in downtown Dar.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the National Museum, then stroll downtown to see monuments and colonial architecture. In the afternoon, visit Kariakoo Market and Slipway for dinner. Dedicate another day for a boat trip to Bongoyo or Mbudya Island.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No formal light shows, but nightlife is lively with beach clubs, live music venues, and rooftop bars. Evening visits to Coco Beach are popular.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The city can be crowded during rush hours. Markets like Kariakoo are always busy. Weekdays are less crowded at beaches compared to weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Museums and tourist complexes like Slipway have restrooms, shops, and restaurants. Markets have limited facilities, so plan accordingly. Water and food are widely available from local vendors.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Modern places like Slipway and some hotels are accessible. Markets and ferries may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children enjoy beaches and island trips.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash in Tanzanian Shillings is widely used. Larger hotels, restaurants, and malls accept cards. Mobile money services like M-Pesa are common. Markets and small shops are cash only.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Samaki Samaki – famous for seafood and cocktails.
• The Slipway waterfront restaurants.
• 305 Karafuu – local and international cuisine.
• Cape Town Fish Market – seafood with ocean view.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, halal food is standard across the city. Vegetarian dishes like beans, rice, and chapati are common. Vegan options are available, especially at international and Indian restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam – luxury.
• Sea Cliff Hotel – upscale with ocean views.
• Slipway Hotel – mid-range, convenient for island trips.
• Budget guesthouses in Kariakoo and Oyster Bay.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Zanzibar Island by ferry (2 hours).
• Bagamoyo historic town (1–2 hours drive).
• Mikumi National Park (day safari by road or short flight).
• Pugu Hills Nature Reserve (short drive).

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Wood carvings and masks from Mwenge Carvers Market.
• Kanga and kitenge fabrics.
• Spices, coffee, and tea.
• Beaded Maasai jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Ferries to Zanzibar.
• Domestic flights to safari destinations like Serengeti, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro.
• Buses and trains to Morogoro, Dodoma, or Mbeya.
• Private tours to nearby reserves and cultural towns.