Dar Es Salaam City Tour
Active
8h - 10h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Dar es Salaam is dynamic, colourful and diverse. Originally a small fishing village known as Mzizima it’s now a bustling city and hub for East African business and trade. Packed with interesting culture, history, food and people our Dar es Salaam city tour will give you a taste of one of East Africa’s most exciting cities.
Available options
Dar Es Salaam City Tour
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
In the morning after breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you straight to visit Kivukoni Fish Market. Many varieties of fish in every shape and size are sold here, both retail and wholesale, to city dwellers, restaurateurs and people from outside the city who know Kivukoni Fish Market is the best place to buy fish in Tanzania.
2
After leaving Kivukoni Fish Market you’ll see the Ocean Road Hospital and the State House. You will have a chance to visit the nearby Botanical Gardens which were established a hundred years ago by Germans. Opposite the garden is Karimjee Hall and you’ll be able to see the fantastic architecture while your guide explains the history behind the building.
3
Next, you’ll visit the National Museum, home to many historical treasures with a wide variety of exhibits including archaeological findings, rock paintings, ancient footprints, the remains of the first humans and more.
4
The Mwenge Carvers Market is made up of small shops with stands displaying carvings of different kinds, traditional dresses, the Tinga Tinga paints and more. You’ll be able to browse the stalls, chat with the carvers and buy souvenirs if you wish.
5
After that you’ll visit the Makumbusho Village museum which is more interactive than the National Museum, allowing you to get a feel for the whole of Tanzania in a very short time.
6
Kariakoo is the busiest and most exciting market in Dar es Salaam so you’ll be able to enjoy an authentic Tanzanian shopping experience here.
7
Mnazi Mmoja is another exciting, vibrant place to visit with strong historical significance. You’ll be able to see the Uhuru Torch which was placed here in 1961 to celebrate Tanzania’s independence from Germany.
8
Lunch will be at the CHEF PRIDE where you can experience authentic Tanzanian hospitality and food. After lunch, you’ll visit the Clock Tower and see St. Joseph’s Cathedral which was built hundreds of years ago in the Gothic style.
9
You’ll visit Samora Avenue to see and learn about the historical Askari Monument. Then you’ll visit the beautiful old Azania Front Lutheran Church and take in the views of Dar Es Salaam harbor view from the roof.
In the late afternoon when the tour is over we’ll drive you back to your hotel. It’s been a busy day and you’ll have seen and learnt a lot about Dar Es Salaam.
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Amani Place - Opposite Serena Hotel Dar Es Salaam
About Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and its commercial hub, offering a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful coastal scenery. As the gateway to Zanzibar and the southern circuits of Tanzania, it combines modern urban life with Swahili coastal charm.
Top Attractions
Coco Beach
A popular beach in Dar es Salaam with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local seafood.
Beach
Half day
Free (Food and activities extra)
Mbudya Island
A small island located just off the coast of Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling, and a peaceful escape from the city.
Nature
Full day
Moderate (Boat ride and activities)
Dar es Salaam National Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Tanzania, including exhibits on natural history, ethnography, and the country's struggle for independence.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (Entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ugali and Nyama Choma
Ugali is a staple food made from maize flour, often served with grilled meat (Nyama Choma).
Main Course
Vegetarian options available (Ugali with vegetables)
Pilau
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Mishkaki
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salsa).
Snack
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Snorkeling and diving
Island hopping
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Boat tours and fishing excursions
Spice tours in Zanzibar
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
22-30°C
72-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Swahili, English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Dar es Salaam is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
Getting there
By air
- Julius Nyerere International Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Dar es Salaam Central Station
By bus
Ubungo Bus Terminal, Tegeta Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Dala Dala are minibuses that are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They can be crowded and chaotic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kariakoo
Oyster Bay
Day trips
Zanzibar Island
60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day or overnight
Zanzibar offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures.
Bagamoyo
60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day
A historic town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its role in the slave trade and as a center for Swahili culture.
Festivals
Dar es Salaam International Film Festival (DIFIFF) • July
Sauti za Busara • February
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation.
- Visit the Kariakoo Market early in the morning for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Book ferry tickets to Zanzibar in advance, especially during peak season.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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