The largest city in East Africa, Dar es Salaam provides a collection of fascinating neighbourhoods filled with African and international dining, community markets and dance clubs. The city also overlooks the Zanzibar Archipelago, so you can easily trade the bustling city streets for pristine island beaches and vibrant snorkelling spots.

Things to do

Immerse yourself in Africa’s vibrant culture at the Nyumba ya Sanaa, where you can see locals producing culturally-relevant paintings and watch dance and musical performances. Alternatively venture over to the Nafasi Art Space, which comprises a number of studios in a warehouse. There are numerous on-site galleries set up by the talented local artists.

Are you visiting Dar es Salaam with your family? Treat the kids to a day out at Dar es Salaam Zoo, which is slightly south of the city centre. Here you can see many Tanzania animals, including crocodiles, zebras, gazelles and lions. It’s a short drive from Fun City Kigamboni, a family-friendly water park with waterslides, children’s playgrounds and a large wave pool.

Discover more about Tanzania’s history at the National Museum of Tanzania, which boasts cultural exhibits, including one of King George V’s cars, bones of an early hominin living in East Africa and ethnographic displays focused on the Tanzania people. Afterwards, snap a photo of the iconic Askari Monument, which commemorates the soldiers who fought in World War I.

When you need a break from the city, head over to one of the nearby islands, such as the uninhabited Mbudya Island, which offers incredible marine life for snorkelers. Alternatively, stay on the mainland at the white-sand Coco Beach, which has crystal-clear water perfect for swimming or snorkelling.

Getting around

Fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport, 10 kilometres away from Dar es Salaam. The city can easily be explored by hiring a car or using private taxis, three-wheeled Bajajs or the Daladala mini-vans.