Dar Es Salaam – The Largest City Of Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is a very busy city that never sleeps. If busy cities don’t tempt you, stay here only for the bare minimum, two nights is plenty for this city. There are no historical sites here, nor are there many places to see. We’ll tell you what’s worth a visit in this article.

HOW TO GET FROM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM

The city will probably be your first stop in Tanzania after arriving by plane, so you will have to get from the airport to the center somehow. The most convenient and affordable way to get from the airport to the city is via the UBER app. UBER works reliably all over the city here, but unfortunately there is a ban on them for trips to the airport and taxi drivers won’t really let you get in. However, just pull into the car park outside the airport, ignore the taxi drivers, and order an UBER in some far corner of the car park. The price for a trip to the centre is TZS 9,500 (USD 4).

Taxis also run here, but as a tourist you will be duly fleeced of your money. Another option is the bus, but this option is only recommended for more experienced travellers.

ACCOMMODATION

For accommodation we can definitely recommend Sophia Hotel. It is a lower category hotel with fast internet and breakfast included. However, don’t expect any luxury. The price is 18 USD per night. The city center is around the corner, and the front desk can possibly arrange a transfer to the airport or bus station. Contact the hotel at +255 0713 454 242. You can negotiate the price.

Another great hotel in a slightly higher category is the Chelsea Hotel, where you pay USD 50 for one night in a double room. You can book this hotel through www.booking.com.

TO ZANZIBAR

From the city, it is quite easy to get to the island of Zanzibar. Either by ferry for 35 USD or by air also for 35 USD.

Alternatively, from here you can visit other islands near the city called Mafia Island and Bongoyo Island. Here you can swim on beautiful beaches and relax after a long flight.

If you’ll be in town for a longer period of time, choose accommodation near the coast rather than in the centre. You’ll be closer to the beach, or you can take a trip to the recommended islands from here. Ideal areas are Oyster Bay or Masaki.

If you are only staying for a short time, there is no need to go anywhere from our recommended hotel, you can walk through the centre in one. See the map for an ideal walking route for a day trip. The route is perfectly safe during the day.

TIPS for visiting DAR ES SALAAM

You can get around the city conveniently and cheaply by UBER or local Dala Dala buses. If you don’t have experience with travelling by local transport, for example in Asia, we recommend UBER instead. Mass transit is a bit crazy here :-).

There is a great Indian restaurant a short walk from the hotel, suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It’s called Chowpatty Restaurant. Prices are around 14 000 TZS (6 USD) per serving, which will be plenty for you.

WATCH OUT IN DAR ES SALAAM

Although Tanzania is a safe country, we don’t recommend going out alone after dark. Women in particular are advised to walk with their shoulders and knees covered. Exposing them will not offend anyone, but you will avoid unpleasant looks.

In case you need to take a taxi, only take taxis at officially marked locations around the city. Definitely don’t take a cheap ride from someone off the street.

Licensed taxis have white license plates. NEVER get into a car with yellow plates. You are putting yourself at risk of being robbed.