Dar es Salaam means “place of peace” in Arabic – which doesn’t seem fitting when you first experience it. The streets are busy, the traffic is manic, the skyscrapers are towering and the vendors line the sidewalks, selling their wares. But the warm smiles and greetings of karibu from local passers-by soon make you feel at ease.
By: Lynette Botha
Formerly the capital of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is the country’s largest city as well as its main port, making it a bustling hive of activity. From a fishing village in the mid-19th century, the city has grown to become the economic hub of Tanzania, with Arabic, German and British influences noticeable throughout. It’s usually a stopover for visitors in transit to the Selous, the Serengeti or Zanzibar, rather than the main attraction – but the energetic metropolis is worthy of a stay in its own right.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Slipway Accommodation in this charming spot on the Msasani Peninsula is airy, spacious and comfortable. Wi-Fi and breakfast are included in the rate, and there are various options for dining. It also houses a supermarket, a foreign exchange, a cellphone shop, a bookstore, an array of curios and clothing stores, and two spas. The Msasani open-air market is within walking distance too, so you won’t need to go far for the full Dar experience. hotelslipway.com
HOW TO GET AROUND
The best way to explore is on foot, but you’ll need a car or taxi to get you from the city to the Msasani Peninsula.
Car National roads are mostly fine to drive on. Ensure you have an international driver’s licence if you plan to rent a car – there are often roadblocks and inspections.
Taxi Book one via a reputable source, preferably your hotel or tour operator.
GETTING THERE
SAA flies to Dar es Salaam daily. flysaa.com
WHERE TO EAT
Street food Everywhere you go, you’ll find food carts serving up everything from juicy fresh mangoes and watermelon to flavour-packed tandoori chicken skewers (best washed down with sugar-cane juice).
Fine dining After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a fancy dinner with a side of theatrics at Akemi revolving restaurant. It’s best to book in advance – the food, service and ambience are all top-notch, so it’s a popular evening spot. akemidining.com
WHAT TO SEE
The city If you love urban street culture and getting into the mix of things, the CBD won’t disappoint. From outdoor music venues to food carts, its busy side streets will draw you in. If you’d like to learn more about the history, culture and politics of Dar, book a tour with AfriRoots, which you can do on foot or by bicycle (the ways most locals get around). afriroots.co.tz
St Joseph’s Cathedral Make sure you stop by this impressive church, located across the road from the Zanzibar ferry terminal. The Sunday mass is a beautiful and spiritual experience, regardless of your religious views.
Msasani Bay Once you’ve had your urban fix, head to the Msasani Peninsula (30 minutes from the CBD by car) for a more serene experience. It’s an idyllic location for a little R&R – or a base from which to explore.
Bongoyo Island A 30-minute ferry trip from Msasani Bay will take you to this uninhabited outcrop, where you can spend a couple of hours exploring the marine reserve. It only has a basic restaurant on it, but it remains popular with those who want to tan, snorkel and chill, and the lush greenery reminds you that you’re in the tropical Indian Ocean. Boats to Bongoyo depart every two hours; a round trip is about R250.
WHERE TO HANG OUT
Terrace Restaurant & Bar Hotel Slipway’s largely open-air restaurant and bar area is great for sunset cocktails, music that will get your feet tapping and glorious views over the peninsula.
Paparazzi If you’re in the mood for a boogie, head to this nearby bar/nightclub frequented by locals and tourists, for live music or beats courtesy of an in-house DJ.
REMEMBER TO…
Always ask before taking photographs of local people.
Avoid eating, drinking or chewing gum in public during the daylight hours in the holy month of Ramadan (unless you’re at a hotel or in a restaurant).
Carry a scarf (if you’re a woman) to cover your shoulders in public.
Words: Lynette Botha
