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Last update: 16 Oct 2026
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Dar es Salaam Summary
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Suited for
Tanzania – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type D , Type G
Type D:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) £1 ≈ TZS 3,520.45 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Tanzania’s larger cities, but cash is still the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in some establishments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Tanzania, typically around 5-10% in restaurants. Taxi fares should be rounded up, and small tips for hotel staff are common. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not common in Tanzania, and alcohol is typically consumed in licensed venues like restaurants and bars. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in outdoor public spaces and designated indoor areas. Many restaurants and public spaces have non-smoking sections. |
| Independence Day (9 December) |
Celebrates Tanzania’s independence from British colonial rule |
|---|---|
| Saba Saba (7 July) |
Industry Day |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Tanzania is famous for its stunning wildlife, including safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro. The coast also offers beautiful beaches, particularly around Zanzibar. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Long rains March to May (heaviest April), short rains November to December; streets flood and traffic worsens after heavy rain
Best time for island day trips and beaches (Bongoyo, Mbudya) is June to October
Ramadan: daytime food options limited, many restaurants closed until sunset
Don't miss
- 🏛️ Explore the historic Stone Town market stalls
- 🌄 Climb Gedeokwe Hill for sunrise city views
- 🏖️ Stroll along Coco Beach, sunset over Indian Ocean
- 🐟 Sample fresh seafood at Mwanga Fish Market
- 🗿 Visit the National Museum of Tanzania exhibits
- ⛴️ Take a dhow cruise to nearby Mafia Island
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Dar es Salaam?
Dar es Salaam offers a blend of history, culture and natural beauty that appeals to travelers seeking an authentic African experience without the crowds of more famous destinations. The city’s waterfront promenade, known as the Mbudya Coast, provides calm beaches where visitors can relax or enjoy local seafood stalls that serve freshly caught fish grilled over open fires. For those interested in architecture, the colonial-era buildings along the main boulevard showcase a mix of Victorian and Art Deco styles, while the bustling markets – particularly Kariakoo Market – offer an immersive look at everyday life, from spices to textiles. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the National Museum of Tanzania, which houses artifacts that trace the region’s pre‑colonial history and the nearby Dar es Salaam Cathedral, a landmark of the city’s religious diversity. The city is also a gateway to the marine-rich islands of Mafia and Pemba; short ferry rides allow visitors to explore coral reefs and historic Swahili villages. Dar es Salaam’s culinary scene reflects its cosmopolitan past: try local dishes such as pilau, samaki wa kupaka (fish in coconut sauce) or the ubiquitous street‑food snack, chapati. The city’s relatively low cost of living means travelers can enjoy comfortable accommodations and transport without breaking the bank. Overall, Dar es Salaam offers a balanced mix of urban convenience, cultural depth and access to natural attractions that make it an appealing destination for budget‑conscious explorers.
Knowledge before you go
- Carry a small amount of cash; many vendors accept only cash.
- Dress modestly and cover shoulders when visiting mosques or rural areas, respecting local customs.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride‑hailing apps to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.
- Explore the waterfront at sunset for vibrant street markets and authentic seafood stalls, but be mindful of pickpockets.
How to travel to Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and main economic hub, is accessible via Julius Nyerere International Airport (JRO), located approximately 10–15 km southeast of the city center. The airport offers domestic and international flights, connecting to major African cities like Johannesburg, Nairobi and Addis Ababa, as well as regional destinations. For overland access, the city is linked by road to key Tanzanian attractions such as Zanzibar (via ferry from Dar es Salaam Port) and neighboring countries through border crossings like Namanga (with Kenya). Public minibuses (daladala) and taxis provide affordable local transport within the city. The port also facilitates cargo and passenger travel along the Indian Ocean coastline.
Access summary
- From Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR): Taxi or Uber to city center, 15–20 min.
- From Nairobi (NBO): Direct flight 3h; from Addis Ababa (ADD) 4h. Both airports serve most tourists.
- By ferry from Mombasa: 12 hours to Dar‑Es‑Salaam, rarely used by tourists.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Dar es Salaam
Dar Es‑Salaam offers a wide spectrum of lodging, from budget hostels and guesthouses in the bustling Mikocheni and Oyster Bay districts to mid‑range boutique hotels along the waterfront that blend colonial charm with modern amenities. Luxury seekers find upscale resorts on the islands of Pemba and Unguja, as well as high‑end beachfront properties in the coastal suburbs of Kivukoni and Mkuranga, featuring private pools, spa services and panoramic sea views. The city’s historic Stone Town area is renowned for its heritage guesthouses, where travelers can experience traditional Swahili architecture and local hospitality. Prices vary from TZS 20 – 50 (£0.01 – 0.01) per night for basic rooms to from TZS 200 (£0.06) for premium suites with ocean frontage.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Colosseum Boutique Hotel and Spa
Harbour View Suites
CBD Hotel
Golden Tulip Dar City Center
Holiday Inn Dar Es Salaam By IHG
Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salaam New Africa
Hotel White Sands Resort and Conference Centre
Seashells Millennium Hotel
Johari Rotana
Tiffany Diamond Hotels - Makunganya Street
How to get around Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam offers several convenient transportation options for getting around the city. The most common method is using **minibuses**, known locally as *daladala*, which operate on fixed routes and are affordable but can be crowded. For shorter trips within neighborhoods, **taxis** are widely available; hiring a private car with a driver (via hotels or apps) provides flexibility and comfort. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt have also expanded in recent years, offering reliable and metered rides. Walking is feasible in central areas but less practical for longer distances due to traffic. For coastal access, **ferries** from the city’s docks connect to nearby islands or mainland beaches. Public buses are limited, so combining taxis and minibuses is often the most efficient way to navigate.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Dar es Salaam are around 69% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to TZS) is 12% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Dar Es‑Salaam is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime rates and a strong police presence in popular districts. Travelers should stay alert to petty theft, avoid isolated areas after dark, keep valuables secure and follow local advice on transport safety.
Health & Medical
Dar‑Es‑Salaam offers reliable medical care with several well‑equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by qualified doctors and nurses. Travelers should stay up to date on routine vaccines, carry malaria prophylaxis, avoid tap water and be aware of occasional air pollution from traffic and port activities.
Accessibility
Dar Es‑Salaam offers mixed accessibility: many modern hotels and public transport have ramps, but older buildings and narrow streets can be challenging for mobility aids. Taxis are generally wheelchair‑friendly, yet signage is limited; planning ahead and asking locals helps navigate smoothly.
Tap water
Tap water in Dar Es Salaam is generally safe for locals but not recommended for tourists without filtration or boiling. Public fountains and bottled water are widely available, especially near markets and tourist sites, ensuring convenient hydration options throughout the city.
Packing recommendations for Dar es Salaam
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
SPF 30+
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🍫
Energy snacks
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🪰
Insect repellent
DEET
🧼
Hand sanitiser
👛
Cash in small denominations
🩴
Walking sandals
👜
Anti-theft bag
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
👚
Long-sleeved shirt
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type G
🛏️
Mosquito net
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
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