23 Fun Things to do in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

By Mark Wiens 118 Comments
View from Upanga, Dar Es Salaam
View from Upanga, Dar Es Salaam

Dar Es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest and most influential city.

However, Mount Kilimanjaro, the northern circuit of African wildlife and the island of Zanzibar, are the reasons why many tourists that visit Tanzania, miss the largest city altogether.

With 4 – 6 million inhabitants, Dar Es Salaam is a vibrant East African city that includes lots of excitement and plenty of character.

Culture, beaches, shopping and food – Dar Es Salaam has a little slice of adventure for you to enjoy.

Here are 23 fun things to do in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Things to do in Dar Es Salaam
Kariakoo Market

1. Kariakoo Market

One of the busiest and most thrilling markets in Dar Es Salaam is the local Kariakoo market.

This is the place to go if you are hunting for the best bargains in town or wish to see the authentic side of local style Tanzanian shopping. If you plan to go shopping, make sure you do some bargaining to get the best deals.

As a quick word of warning, be careful with your money and possessions when you walk around Kariakoo, mostly because it’s a bustling crowded market. Don’t bring something with you that you’re too attached to.

Attractions in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Things to do in Dar Es Salaam

2. Dar Es Salaam Fish Market

One of my favorite things to do in Dar Es Salaam is wake up early in the morning and wander around the Dar fish market.

People gather from around the city to purchase the fresh catch of the day. Climb the flight of stairs leading towards to the official offices for a lovely bird’s eye view of the fish market.

Arrive at around 6:30 am to catch the most energized fish auctions taking place. The last time I went to the market, we came home with a red snapper, and a few kilos of fresh prawns and crabs. We had a few delicious meals after that.

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

3. View of Dar Es Salaam

Located near the Azania Lutheran Church, you can go to the New Africa Hotel and navigate your way to the Sawasdee Thai food restaurant for a great view of Dar Es Salaam and the harbor.

Otherwise, in a number of other building, including the newly built revolving restaurant, you can get a nice view of the city.

Things to do in Dar Es Salaam
Askari Monument, Dar Es Salaam

4. Askari Monument

One of the most well known historical statues of significance in Dar Es Salaam is Askari Monument. Depicting a soldier with his bayonet pointing to the harbor, the monument is a reminder of the soldiers that fought as the Carrier Corps in World War I.

The cast bronze Askari Monument is supposedly located in the precise center of Dar, in the middle of the roundabout that bisects Samora Avenue with Maktaba Street.

Azania Lutheran Church
Azania Lutheran Church

5. Azania Lutheran Church

Originally built by German missionaries in Tanzania, the Azania Lutheran Church is an iconic structure located at Dar Es Salaam’s harbor front. From the cathedral you’ll have easy access to other tourist attractions around town.

When you enter the church, someone will probably approach you and start to guide you around, even without your asking. If you’re alright for this, just let me show you around, and at the end, they might ask for a donation to the church.

You can go up to the top of the Azania Lutheran Church, and see the bell tower.

Dar Es Salaam
National Museum, Dar Es Salaam

6. National Museum of Dar Es Salaam

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Tanzania or see some of the fossils that have been uncovered in the country, you’ll be interested in visiting the National Museum.

The museum is not setup in the most entertaining way, but if you are willing to read, you’ll learn quite a bit.

One of my favorite exhibits at the National Museum of Dar Es Salaam was a functional bicycles made entirely out of wood – everything from the frame to the wheels was all wooden – amazing.

Open hours: daily from 9:30 am – 6 pm
Price: Adults – 6500 TZS, Students – 2600 TZS

Things to do in Dar Es Salaam
Temple Street, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

7. Temple Road

If you are walking around downtown Dar Es Salaam, take a stroll down Temple Road where you’ll find a selection of religious temples. There’s not much else to do, but you can visit a few of the temples and have a look around.

8. Pugu Hills Nature Reserve

Pugu Hills is a designated nature reserve located around 25 kilometers from the center of Dar Es Salaam. Along with an opportunity to hike the trails, you can also choose to bird watch or visit the cave which is famous for its colony of bats.

You can either get to Pugu Hills on your own or take a tour.

Coco Beach
Coco Beach

9. Coco Beach on the Weekends

Coco Beach, also known as Oyster Bay, is a stretch of beach located on the Msasani Peninsula of Dar Es Salaam. If you are looking for fun things to do in Dar Es Salaam, head over to Coco Beach on the weekend when it’s packed full of local Tanzanians and Asians.

There are plenty of street food snacks and sometimes live music. The open area is also a place where frequent concerts and parties take place – check the city events guide.

Swimming is not really recommended at Coco Beach, though some choose to wade in the water.

10. Bagamoyo Town

Similar to Mombasa or Lamu, Bagamoyo town located north of Dar Es Salaam, is an ancient East African trade port. The town has been influenced by Arabs and Indians to create a uniquely Swahili culture.

On a day trip to Bagamoyo, you can visit ancient ruins, old churches and mosques and tour one of Tanzania’s only college of arts known as Chuo Cha Sanaa.

Bongoyo Island
Bongoyo Island day trip from Dar Es Salaam

11. Bongoyo Island

One of the most entertaining things to do in Dar Es Salaam is swim in the beautiful warm tropical Indian Ocean – but not right in Dar itself – there are a few locations that aren’t far that are much better (and cleaner).

Bongoyo Island is a small island off the coast of Dar that makes a fantastic day trip of lazying on the beach, snorkeling and dining on fresh fried fish and chips.

Since becoming a marine reserve a few years ago, fees have severely increased, but it’s still worth it. Get to the island by taking a boat from The Slipway shopping center.

Price: $20 per person roundtrip (but minimum of 4 people)

Beaches in Dar Es Salaam
North Beach, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

12. North Beach – Jangwani and Mbuja Island

North of Dar Es Salaam there are a few lovely beaches and islands to enjoy as well.

From White Sands hotel in Jangwani, you can take a boat to Mbuja Island, a great place to unwind and eat freshly caught Indian Ocean seafood.

South Beach, Dar Es Salaam
South Beach, Dar Es Salaam

13. South Beach – Kigamboni

Seclusion, peace and quietness is how I would describe the South Beach area of Dar Es Salaam. There are a number of hotels that you can visit, or you can rent your own personal banda thatch covered hut for the day.

The lanky palm trees rustling in the breeze and the rythmic wash of waves makes spending a day at South Beach one of the most relaxing things to do in Dar Es Salaam.

Get there by personal vehicle or by local dala dala minivan. You’ll need to cross to the Kigamboni side of Dar by taking the ferry across the port – the ferry ride alone is an awesome Dar experience.

Village Museum
Village Museum, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

14. Village Museum

More of a hands on than the National Museum, the Village Museum offers a chance to observe a number of typical style Tanzanian traditional huts and learn more about the tribes of the country.

Dance and drum performances are available upon request if you pay a little extra for the ticket. It’s a just a little extra, and the dance is pretty much available whenever you’re ready.

When I visited, the museum was quite quiet with just a few other there.

Mwenge Carvers Village
Mwenge Carvers Village

15. Mwenge Wood Carvers’ Village

Located on the outskirts of town, Mwenge Carvers’ Village is a great attraction in Dar Es Salaam if you are in the market for Tanzanian souvenirs.

Though there is a lot of the same same type of things, if you take the time to browse around you’ll come away with some unique and quality Tanzanian handicrafts.

Tinga Tinga
Famous tinga tinga art of Tanzania

16. Tingatinga Art Center

Tanzanian’s have long been famous around Africa for their artwork (even on the streets of Dar). The modern movement of Tingatinga painting is one my my favorite styles of Tanzanian art.

An artistic movement that began with Edward Said Tingatinga, the style is characterized by extremely bright oil colors and cartoon imaginative figures.

The Tingatinga center is a rainbow of color and artistic inspiration. You can browse around and buy anything you see.

Kanga Shopping
Kanga Shopping

17. Kanga Shopping – Uhuru St.

A popular thing to buy in Dar Es Salaam are the colorful pieces of wrap around cloth known as kangas. These brightly dyed rectangles of fabric are available in infinite colors, with infinite patterns and often include a message written in Kiswahili.

Head over to Uhuru Street in downtown Dar Es Salaam for a huge distribution selection of kangas.

Nyama choma
Nyama choma in Tanzania, roasted meat

18. Nyama Choma

Just like in neighboring Kenya, nyama choma (roasted meat – often goat) is wildly popular – and incredibly delicious. Go to a local restaurant, order your choice of meat and wait for it to slowly roast.

In Tanzania, nyama choma is served with a few chillies and sometimes a tomato and red onion garnish. Many Tanzanians choose to wash down their nyama choma with a few beers.

As soon as I arrive in Tanzania every time, I make sure I get my fill of nyama choma.

Price: 8000 TZS per kilo

mishkaki in Dar Es Salaam
Delicious skewers of mishkaki in Dar Es Salaam

19. Mishkaki

There aren’t too many things better in this world than grilled meat on stick, and in Dar Es Salaam, they really know how to do it well.

Mishkaki is the Tanzanian version of skewered meat – street style shish kebabs. The meat, usually beef or chicken, is first marinated in some spices and I think a bit of tomato sauce (depending on the recipe of course), cooked on a bed of hot coals, and served with hot chili and lime juice.

Mishkaki makes a wonderful dinner, and is often paired with a plate of chips to make the meal complete. If you’re looking for a great place to eat mishkaki in downtown Dar Es Salaam, try this place.

Indian Food in Dar Es Salaam
I’m a happy man with a plate of chili paneer…

20. Indian Food

With a sizable population of Indians, there’s a decent selection of delicious Indian food available in Dar Es Salaam (just like with Kenyan food).

The Upanga area, in central Dar, is one of the best areas of town to locate good Indian food. You’ll find everything from whole in the wall Indian restaurants to more upscale Indian restaurant.

Here are few of the most famous Indian restaurant in Dar Es Salaam:

In Dar, there are also many Tanzania restaurants that serve Indian influenced food, like grilled tandoor chicken.

Things to do in Dar Es Salaam
This popular snack is called Zanzibar Mix

21. Zanzibari Mix

There is one dish in Dar Es Salaam that is rare, but is a gem of an example of an expertly prepared dish that sums up the realm of cultures and traditions of the city: Zanzibari Mix.

The makeshift Mama Mumtaz restaurant is not easy to find – in fact, you’ll probably have to walk to Kariakoo market and ask someone to direct you to it. Zanzibari mix is incredible – a comforting combination of deep fried fritters in a coconut milk curry and garnished with fresh chutneys and chili sauce.

My new favorite afternoon spot, is this place in Upanga.

Tanzanian Street Food
Tanzanian Street Food

22. Tanzanian Street Food

Whether it’s roasted maize or mama cooked Tanzanian chapatis, you won’t want to miss a few meals and snacks of Tanzanian street food when you visit Dar Es Salaam!

Fresh Tanzanian Street Coffee
Fresh Tanzanian Street Coffee

23. Tanzanian Beverages

Everywhere you travel you’ll encounter a new and unique set of local beverages. When you are in Tanzania you may want to sample the selection of locally brewed beer, have a few cups of Dar street coffee and especially guzzle a pungent Stoney Tangawizi.

After spending a few days in Dar Es Salaam you may want to visit the famous island of Zanzibar for a relaxing holiday. Be sure to read about how to get from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar and then check out these top things to do in Zanzibar.

Most important, have fun in Dar Es Salaam!

118 comments. I'd love to hear from you!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

  • 11xplay.com

    3 months ago

    nice food very testy so healthi

  • 11xplay.com

    3 months ago

    nice food very testy

  • Kosher Certification

    2 years ago

    i would love to travel here really nice place

  • mahi patel

    3 years ago

    What I would like to say about your post is that you only need to have a look, at first glance, you understand how hard people have worked to write your post, you have not put any useless content at all. . Wrote my post in beautiful words.

  • Thomas

    5 years ago

    Thanks for giving sharing ideas!

  • Alfaj Ahmed

    5 years ago

    I m coming Tanzania on 28the December..

  • Adeola

    5 years ago

    Really wish i come all this places

  • NIHIR PANCHAL

    5 years ago

    I am a indian but i can say also i am half Tanzanian
    Because i have spend almost my half life (18 years) years there.
    So mimina kumbhuka sana sana sana bongo
    nakupenda sana bongo……

  • Muly

    6 years ago

    Chips Ltd Resto is must a visit.! authentic local food, beautiful crowds , location Uhuru Street off Libyan Street

  • Beryl Ajwang

    6 years ago

    Oooh I must try and come to there its seems mind blowing I don’t want to miss out

  • Isaya

    6 years ago

    Umesahau kuweka zege au chipsi mayai

  • Ussein mweze

    6 years ago

    I love Tanzania

  • Daniel

    7 years ago

    I recently visited Dar in December 2017. Its a bustling city and generally safe. I preferred to stay in Kariokoor at HongKong Hotel and I got to visit the museum, Coco Beach and took a ferry to Kigamboni. There are tuk tuks to ferry you around at really friendly prices. I travelled back by bust to Nairobi at the ned of my trip though its a really long ride and it would be preferable to break it up into two with a stop over in Moshi or Arusha. Tanzanians are generally polite, helpful and welcoming.

    • shareen

      6 years ago

      yeah thats our crazy tanzania. karibu tena

    • Radavin

      5 years ago

      Will like to visit it

  • anna

    7 years ago

    Hello! your blog has been helpful for our upcoming Tanzania trip. Thank you! Would you know the best budget place or area to stay in Dar which is like the middle of everything? we’ll move from zanzibar and the south and north. Is it okay to stay in the kariakoo area? Thanks again!

    • shareen

      6 years ago

      yes and very safe. karibu sana tanzania

    • Muly

      6 years ago

      Chealsea Hotel, Uhuru Street

  • Muhidin Shifa

    7 years ago

    what a beautiful city .I have visited dar esalam twice .Wow beautiful beaches and Nature along the cost of the indian ocean and the entire city makes me so excited .Great country and great people.

    • shareen

      6 years ago

      kariu sana. thats our tanzania. peace for all and to all

  • Mpumi

    7 years ago

    This list is fantastic!!!! I will be visiting Dar soon on a solo trip in August. Trying to experience as much of the day and night life as I possibly can. Any local bars / clubs you can recommend. Thank you so much

    • Gilly

      6 years ago

      Welcome

    • shareen

      6 years ago

      wow karibu sana. most welcomed dear

  • Kitwala Nginilla

    7 years ago

    I was born and live in Dar es Salaam. You do me proud. Hongera!

  • Pierre Bernard

    7 years ago

    Very very interesting.
    A great job.
    Very well documenté.

  • H.P.Terbeck

    7 years ago

    Nice surprise to see the development of Dar. We lived there from 1977 til 1984 near Yacht Club, our sons went to IST, we loved it and still remember the days, weeks, month and years with all the friendly Tanzanians !

  • Ajmalraza

    7 years ago

    Nice country Tanzania n Tanzanian people dar id heart of Tanzania i like so much Beach n N many mor funn available here so. I love This country

  • Sady

    7 years ago

    Great work! you really give me the information I want for my trip to Dar es Salaam. I will definitely try at least 10 of them 🙂

  • Mustafa Vejlani

    7 years ago

    I got much benefit from this site. it is very very helpful. thanks

  • akugizibwe Lawrence

    8 years ago

    This is so good . Beautiful city to visit with hospitable people

  • Aleks

    8 years ago

    Hi 🙂
    It’s a wonderful and useful post!
    I can see its been a while since it was posted, but perhaps you have any posts about preparation for going to Tanzania, like things that should be considered etc.
    thanks in advance 🙂

  • Jangwe A. Kakopa

    8 years ago

    You realy did good job. Be blessed.
    I work at the hospital in Tanzania in a rural area and i hav been coming in dar for various official tasks but i couldn’t explain clearly what is happening on the ground to that much. For sure receive my appreciation

  • Zita

    8 years ago

    Hahaha. I laughed at the church tour is it really that they take you around and ask for contribution.

  • Rita

    8 years ago

    I would love to visit village museum, national museum, go on a ferry to zanzibar, coco beach, bongogo island and kanga shopping. How do I plan this by distance. I mean visit close by locations same day. I have just four nights to spend in Dar es salaam.

  • Reddy

    8 years ago

    I like dar ad salam vry much

  • Kamal

    8 years ago

    Great list! I find myself using it – and I’m a local! Just one thing though, number 7, thats actually Mosque Street. However there is a Temple Street in Dar.

  • Raymond Majengo

    9 years ago

    Hi Mark!
    You have about Dar es Salaam just like a local resident not a foreigner..Bravo ! thump up.
    I grew up in Dar es Salaam and i can say it change alot.
    Come again and am sure you will have a lot to cover

    • Mark Wiens

      9 years ago

      Hey Raymond, great to hear from you, thank you for reading. I actually visited about 1 year ago and I’ve been meaning to update this post with some new info and photos. Will try to do that soon. Are you still living in Dar now?

    • Raymond Majengo

      8 years ago

      Yes i do.

  • Cindy P.

    9 years ago

    I love this list! Thank you so much! I will definitely use it to visit Dar Es Salaam!

    • Mark Wiens

      9 years ago

      Hey Cindy, you’re welcome, thank you very much, and hope you have a great trip to Dar!

  • Manisha Pandey

    9 years ago

    Wow nice to read this… actually I’m shifting to Dar es salaam as my husband has got job there… I was wondering if I can find someting to see there and I think your article will help me a lot..
    Thanks 🙂

    • Mark Wiens

      9 years ago

      Hi Manisha, good to hear from you, and glad that you’ll be moving to Dar Es Salaam. Glad this post is helpful. All the best with the move.

    • Rachel Temu

      9 years ago

      Hello Mark my name is Rachel A. Temu, I am a Tanzania native. I studied in Wartburg college Waverly, Iowa perusing International Relations and Politics minor in Sociology then I moved to Scotsdale, Arizona and continued my Barchelor degree at Arizona State university at the main campus in Tempe.
      I worked in hotels such as Whyndham Hotel in Phoenix Dowton at the 1st street and and Van Buren then I also worked at the Holiday inn at the Scottsdale. Also I worked at the USA as the legal affair officer. Hospitality has been my passion since then. I left Arizona and come home 2008 after I lost my farther with chronic bronchitis then I resume back in the the USA 2009. When I returned back to the states I decided to return home and take care of my mother who was left alone. In 2009 I joined the the Kilimanjaro Kempinski hotel as the VIP and lodge manager, only worked for 3 months and I later joined the agriculture company in Israel Kibutz and never liked it I came home and joined the New africa hotel as the assistant sales manager for about 8 months then I landed a new job at the Singita Grumeti reserve at Serengeti national park which is the number one hotel in the world owned by an American Billionaire Paul Tudor Jones working as the Guest relations manager and assistant lodge manager to Sasakwa lodge.
      Later I moved back to Dar and joined the Motisun group of companies and worked for the Whites sands hotel as the PR and the communication manager. For about two years and ahalf. Now I am currently joined the Ramada Encore the new hotel in downtown soon to be opened as the reservation and revenue manager.
      One thing I will like to tell you I have been thrilled with your blog and you have been inspiring me immensely. I love food and I am thinking to take culinary classes to practice a professional executive chef Both in the kitchen and bakery.
      Kindly let’s keep in touch my email adress is [email protected] looking forward to hear from you.
      Go team ASU.

    • Mark Wiens

      9 years ago

      Hey Rachel, great to hear from you, thank you so much for sharing. I’m going to write you back at your e-mail address.

  • Waheeda

    10 years ago

    I am Tanzanian and I just came across your website whilst looking for a restaurant concert and I was I impressed, especially after I read the comments (yes I am that particular not counting the other words my friends use! ;)), but I was impressed by the fact that whilst you love my country (hear, hear!), you were very honest in telling people to be careful. As they should in any busy city.
    Missed out on a lot though, especially in the new Masaki/Msasani Dar, karibu tena!

    Btw, this is just to you,no need to post online, just wanted to give kudos.

  • Mark Shaterton

    10 years ago

    uhh! back from the trip to Tanzania, to be honest, Dar-es Salaam is a very boring city, people here, specially the taxi drivers, the sellers, even the airport staff’s dig for money, they will be staring blank so that you may give them some shillings out of your pocket, i would prefer Nairobi better…

  • Najda Khan

    10 years ago

    Moving to Dar next week…. staring off my exploring with this list. Thank you 🙂

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Good to hear that Najda, have a great time in Dar.

  • Karoli

    10 years ago

    Great article, Dar has changed a lot since 2012, but still all these places mentioned are great to visit, you can also get new information on what to do in Dar by asking on team tanzania on facebook, highly recommended. I will add also bicycle tour by afriroots.co.tz/

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Thank you Karoli. Thank you for sharing about the bicycle tour, sounds great.

  • mariam

    10 years ago

    hey! how is the safety in dar es salaam and zanzibar?
    I am heading there for a humanitarian trip i was SO excited until i read the government warnings about increasing terrorism, bombing, acid attacks and mugging/pickpocketing/kidnapping tourists.

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hey Mariam, yah the increase in crime is true, but I think it’s still about using common sense – dressing appropriately, acting appropriately, be careful with belongings. Another thing you should do if you’re walking around streets is – if you carry a should strap bag or backpack – you should make sure it’s not tightly wrapped around you. There have been quite a few incidents where motorbikers have whizzed passed and grabbed bags, with the person still attached. So it’s best to not carry a bag walking around, but if you do, just make sure it’s not too attached to you. Don’t worry too much, just use some common sense and you’ll have a wonderful time. Hope this helps! – Mark

  • Hendrik

    10 years ago

    Hi Mark, you make the place come alive, thanks!
    Would you know why swimming is not advised at Coco beach; is the water dirty, is it swift currents, or dangerous animals like yellyfish or sharks 🙂 ??
    Have a good one,
    Henri.

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hey Henri, thanks for reading! As for Coco Beach, mostly just because the water isn’t very clean – it’s just too close to the city where sewage is often dumped into the ocean.

  • Batul

    10 years ago

    So, I know its a bit late to comment on here, but hey, better late than never. 🙂
    I’m an Indian-Tanzanian, Indian by looks, but otherwise I’ve been born and bred Tanzanian..
    I just want to say that you’ve missed out on a lot of places..and food:
    -All the seafood that is offered around and on the ferry, such as shrimps, octopus, sea horse, etc.
    -The “Mama mtilie” food, a whole meal at the cheapest price, usually served food is ugali with kidney beans in a gravy with spinach on the side
    -The food found in Oysterbay – Cassava/Banana/Potato crisps, roasted/deep fried sweet potatoes/cassava, and the delicious salad they serve it with.

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hi Batul, thank you so much for all that suggestions, I appreciate it. Will check them out on my next visit!

  • carmel

    10 years ago

    This is a great help for me. Since, I will be working on Dar Es Salaam. Thank you and Be safe

  • Suzy

    10 years ago

    This is the best guide to Dar Es Salaam that I’ve found on the internet (and believe me, I’ve been looking). I’m also completely obsessed with street food and will be in Dar in July this year so was wondering if you could give me some specific streets or areas of Dar that sell some of the dishes you mentioned? We’re staying around Oyster Bay.

    Thanks again for the brilliant guide!

  • ylfriends

    10 years ago

    Tingatinga – what a cute name! LOL
    I would love to visit the museum, go to the beach and shop for Kanga. Is Kanga like Balinese sarongs? I like it that it’s cotton, with beautiful colors and patterns and not see through. The view was so beautiful and some places have striking resemblenece to the Virgin Islands. Cocos beach – why would you not go into the water? Are you concerned about the safety?

    Speaking of safety, it would be nice if you make a posting about safety caution in Africa, i.e. how to safeguard your possessions, what shots you need to get before you travel ( I heard you need to get shots before you travel, like malaria etc. Also you need to be careful of Dengue fever).

    I try not to be so uppity here, but how are the bathrooms when you go around the town? In Thailand you just need to go to the closest mall. What happens when you’re traveling in the town, markets, etc and nature calls you?

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hey, thanks for the suggestions. I’ll try to write up a safety guide!

  • Issa

    11 years ago

    Spot on mark, missed home badly just feel trapped in the western, feels gotta something to give before sijarudi for good, what can I do to my people in tz? Kind of charity? But I have to narrow who need most, thanks mark nimekumbuka bongo home sweet home

  • Asia

    11 years ago

    Headed there next month! This was a great read and I am even more excited now! 🙂

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Glad to hear that Asia, hope you have a great time in Dar!

  • Divyesh

    11 years ago

    Thank you Mark. I was born in TZ and studied in Dar in 1979, but it’s been 31 years since i’ve been back, and am going back on 13/07. Oh yes!! Really looking forward to the mishkaki, nyama choma. ugali, makai, mogo, kahawa, and fresh fish and fruit!!

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hey Divyesh, great to hear you’ll be going back to Dar, enjoy the food!

  • martyn

    11 years ago

    mambo ! wonderful, upbeat, esp the food section 🙂 may i add a 24th (to music lovers).. the radio tanzania with its amazing amount of recordings of tanzanian music from the last several decades, near tazara

    http://tanzaniaheritageproject.org/

    safi sana 🙂

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hey Martyn, great, thanks a lot for sharing!

  • Anthony

    11 years ago

    Me and some family are going to the Island 0f Zanzabar for a week for my daughter’s wedding. After that i wanted to stay in Dar for a few days and tour the city. My exwife is afraid it might not be safe. Is it a safe city and will it be easy to navigate around only speaking english? thank you for any answers.

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hi Anthony, as for safety, it’s not the safest in the world, but at same time being careful (like not wearing anything too flashy, or carrying your wallet in your back pocket, or not going out too late) are all great ways to keep safe. As for language, some people can speak a little English, but not too many. That being said, people are friendly and willing to help and point you in the right direction. Hope you have a great visit!

  • Jiti

    11 years ago

    I have tried all the 23 Fun things u mentioned while i visited Dar Salaam!!!!! It is such a great article!!!! Thanks!!!

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hey Jiti, wow, fantastic you’ve done all these things too!

  • Iddy

    11 years ago

    I was born and raised in Dar, before I migrate to Texas 10 years ago. Thanks for sharing, I am determine to return home for good. Dar is one of the best place on this earth. I love the place and I love the people. You nail every area from Bagamoyo to Kigamboni (KG). I miss home.

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hey Iddy, great to hear you’re from Dar, hope you can get back. I agree, I love Dar, such a great mixture!

  • Giang

    11 years ago

    Amazing! Done some of it and will do some more in it. Thanks!

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Great to hear that Giang, thanks for checking this out!

  • abby

    12 years ago

    well reading all this seems dar a salaam is safe but recent new tells us otherwise,lots of tourists getting robbed everyday,its a shame the very people tanzania needs are being robbed,i just wondered if the government is doing anythinf about it,i hope so before they destroy the economy,WONDERING!!!!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Hi Abby, thanks for the comment. It is unfortunate that there is a lot of crime in Dar lately, but I still think it’s a great city. I hope the government will be able to increase security and crack down on the recent theft and muggings.

    • Awesome Storm

      8 years ago

      Right up until about 20 years ago, thieves were dealt with, very severely, by the people of Dar themselves and they learned their lesson by getting a good thrashing! Not like now, where they steal even your car mirror with a smirk on their faces as you watch them do it and even the police do nothing about it! I hope it improves too, possibly with a new govt. Otherwise the people should start sorting it themselves again lol 😉

  • AYSHA MAHMOUD BURNETT

    12 years ago

    COOL STUFF!!!!!!!!!
    AFTER MOVING TO ZIMBABWE AND LIVING THERE FOR DONKEY YEARS, AND THEN IMMIGRATE TO TEXAS SINCE 2001, WHEN I SEE SUCH THINGS, I START WISHING THAT
    I WOULD GROW WINGS AND FLY WAY UP, UP HIGH BACK TO MY BONGOLAND!!!!!!!!!!!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Haha, thanks so much for the comment Aysha. Growing wings and being able to go wherever we would like would be great!

  • sayid mukadam

    12 years ago

    pls b informed on temple street there r masjid (which is in the picture ) n temples

  • Bama

    12 years ago

    Even at the seemingly bustling city, like Dar, there will always be interesting things only to be discovered by those who explore deep into the heart of it. Thanks for this list, Mark! Btw that bowl of Zanzibari Mix just looks so delicious!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      No problem Bama, you’re right, there are so many things to discover in any city!

  • Azad Poptani

    12 years ago

    Left Tanzania 32 years ago. Visit family on regular basis. Excellent presentation. Also there is a restaurant called Khana Khazana who present variuos dishes and excellent atmosphere.
    Also when visiting Bagamoyo must visit Crocodile farm where you are able to hold a small one in your hands and experience the strength of this reptile. Love Tanzania.

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Hey Azad, yes, I’m been to Khana Khazana a number of times as well and have fully enjoyed it! Thanks!

    • Mariam Meghjee

      11 years ago

      Hi All,

      Do not miss Naima for the exotic fresh fruit drink of Mabungo, Khungu etc and nearby there is a resturant Retreat for typical Indian vegiterial food it is amazing ummh masala dhosa and idli sambhar etc.

      While in Bagamoyo the museum is brilliant and the green turtle park amazing we saw a tutle which swam from Bagamoyo to Australia and back came to lay its eggs it is characteristic for a green turtle to come back to its orginal birthplace to lay its eggs.

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Hi Mariam, thanks a lot for Dar es Salaam and Bagamoyo suggestions!

  • Maria

    12 years ago

    I left Dar es Salaam over 32 yrs ago and your delightful pictures etc brought the memories flooding back, tempting me to return for a visit. Thank you soooooooooo much!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      No problem Maria, I’m glad you enjoyed this and thank you for taking a look. Hope you can make a trip back to Dar soon!

  • Robert Hamilton

    12 years ago

    Quote”……head over to Coco Beach on the weekend when it’s packed full of local Tanzanians and Asians.” Ahh! Tanzanians and who? How does the author know all these Asians are not Tanzanians?

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Hey Robert,
      I don’t think Asian doesn’t mean Tanzanian – sure plenty of the Asians in Tanzania are Tanzanian, but doesn’t mean they’re not Asian as well.

    • F.K

      12 years ago

      Fully agree with you. Lots of Asians & almost all are Tanzanians. I was born & grew up there but left almost 40 yrs ago. Visit my family & friends every other year. Heading back in June for 2-3 months. I have been to & seen most places you suggest & also have eaten everything you have suggested. Next time around try their BBQ Jumbo shrimps/prawns from restaurants, sweet BBQ Yams & BBQ Cassava from street vendors. Try the “heart of Palm” sold at the Oysterbay beach. They sell them by slices & don’t forget the coconut popularly known in Kiswahili as “Madaafu”…sold on the streets & at Oysterbay too.

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Thanks for stopping by F.K and for the added input. Cool to hear that you grew up in Tanzania and still make frequent visits. I’m drooling right now for some of those jumbo BBQ Indian Ocean prawns and the hearts of palm!

  • Sa

    12 years ago

    nice list, you missed out the other type of mishkaki known as sururu! it’s best when its straight off the grill and then dipped into a tomato n chilli chutney 🙂

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Mmm, thanks for sharing Sa, that sounds really good too!

  • Lane

    12 years ago

    As always, lovely photos!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Thanks Lane!

    • saif

      10 years ago

      hi

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hello Saif!

    • jane

      10 years ago

      after 35 years of living abroad i was overwhelm happy and anxious to once again visit my birth country.it reminds me of my childhood thought it was a taught time.tears of joy and sadness went down my chicks while the plane was descending. at 48 i was looking forward to visit my mothers grave for the first time.i was surprised to see the development which has taken place.the first thing i wanted is to visit the Kariakoo market fish,the very next morning i went there, feel free and started to speak the broken Swahili.each day i make sure i visit the market and admire the local people in the routine bussness. i missed Dar than any places in the world. As i say home sweet home.

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hey Jane, thank you very much for sharing, it’s really good to hear from you. Dar really is a great city.

  • Colleen

    12 years ago

    Fantastic article, Mark. This is the first time I ever REALLY wanted to travel in Africa, thanks to this very article and beautiful photos. The food in Dar looks delicious. Thank you!

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Cool to hear that Colleen! Thanks for checking out this article!

  • ciki

    12 years ago

    WOW, this is a great list! I would have settled for 10 but 23.. you really did a rocking job! Im using this post once I find my way to Tanzania;)

    • Mark Wiens

      12 years ago

      Thanks Ciki! Cool, I really hope you make it to Tanzania soon!

    • Paul

      11 years ago

      I love the list, but I like the fact that you talked about these places. I live here in the states, from Tanzania, and no one arround me can ever hear me when I talk the elements you mentioned here! Good job, and more pics will be great. My fellow Americans, visit Tanzania for good music,food, lodging, fun and mind blowing activities,including trekking Kilimanjaro, Ruwenzori, the Ngorongoro crater and sleeping in warm, cozy cottages up the mountains! ha! ha! ha! Karibuni sana.

    • Mark Wiens

      11 years ago

      Asante Paul! Tanzania is an amazing country with so much to offer!

    • Ramadhan

      10 years ago

      Hey Mark, Thanks so much for such great insights. It so amazing to find your extremely useful posts here and it’s even more satisfying for me as a Tanzanian living in Tanzania to find such lovely stories and experiences by people from elsewhere in the world about my country.

      Please visit our website http://www.maskanipride.com/ and see if you can help us grow
      , we are just starting up.

      Cheers!

    • Mark Wiens

      10 years ago

      Hi Ramadhan, great to hear from you, thank you for reading this. Nice to see your website as well, fantastic!