DAR ES SALAAM & BAGAMOYO
Dar es Salaam is the vibrant, pulsating heart of Tanzania’s economy and culture, a bustling coastal metropolis that perfectly fuses African traditions with modern life. It’s a key port on the Indian Ocean.
Just north lies Bagamoyo, a coastal town steeped in a haunting history, having served as a vital trading post and one of the main ports of the East African slave trade.
Most Popular Attractions
Dar es Salaam City Core & History:
National Museum and House of Culture: A great starting point to explore Tanzania’s rich history, including artifacts on the country’s past and colonial struggle.
Askari Monument: A bronze statue commemorating African soldiers who fought in World War I, located at a major city intersection.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral: A distinctive Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral with beautiful stained-glass windows, dating back to the late 19th century.
Kariakoo Market: A massive, bustling local market offering a vibrant, authentic experience of city commerce, food, and culture.
Azania Front Lutheran Church: A picturesque church near the harbor, known for its distinctive red-tiled roof and colonial-era architecture.
State House (Ikulu): The official residence of the President of Tanzania, an impressive colonial-era building (viewed from outside).
Village Museum (Kijiji cha Makumbusho): An open-air museum showcasing traditional Tanzanian huts and the cultural heritage of different tribes.
Fish Market (Ferry Fish Market): An extremely lively spot where fishermen bring their daily catch; a sensory experience of local life and commerce.
Samora Machel Avenue: A historic street lined with impressive colonial architecture and commercial buildings.
Clock Tower: A prominent landmark in the central business district, often marking the historic center of the city.
Dar es Salaam Modern Sites & Islands:
Mwenge Carvers Market: A large workshop and market specializing in Makonde carvings and other local handicrafts, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Slipway Shopping Centre: A waterfront complex offering shops, restaurants, and a jetty for boat trips to nearby islands.
Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve: A beautiful, uninhabited island reachable by boat, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Mbudya Island Marine Reserve: Another nearby island offering a secluded beach escape and excellent opportunities for marine activities.
Coco Beach (Oyster Bay): A popular public beach in the city, known for its weekend street food vendors and lively atmosphere.
Makumbusho/Kinondoni Mosque: A modern architectural landmark showcasing contemporary Islamic design.
Bagamoyo & Surrounding Areas:
Bagamoyo Old Town: The historic heart of the former German East Africa, featuring ruins of colonial buildings and Arab architecture.
Kaole Ruins: Remains of a 13th-century Shirazai-era settlement, including two mosques and several tombs, located just south of Bagamoyo.
Caravan Serai Museum: The ruins of the starting point of the 19th-century trade caravan route into the interior of East Africa.
Old Fort (Boma): A well-preserved former German colonial administrative building in Bagamoyo.
First Catholic Church in East Africa: A historically significant church built by the Holy Ghost Fathers in the 1860s, a testament to the missionary history.
Lala Salama (Sleep Peacefully) Graveyard: A cemetery where early missionaries and colonial administrators were buried, offering a glimpse into the past.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Historical Stone Town of Bagamoyo: Wander through the ruins and ancient buildings of this former German East Africa capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Site, which was a vital stop on the caravan routes.
Take a Dhow Sailing Trip to Bongoyo Island: Charter a traditional wooden dhow (or a speed boat) for a day trip to the pristine white-sand beaches and clear waters of Bongoyo Marine Reserve for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Visit the Askari Monument & National Museum: Start your Dar es Salaam exploration at the iconic Askari Monument, then dive into Tanzanian history and culture at the nearby National Museum.
Experience the Kivukoni Fish Market at Dawn: Head to the bustling fish market early in the morning to witness the fishermen offload their catch, followed by the lively, competitive fish auction.
Go on a Local Food Tour (Street Food Experience): Sample classic Tanzanian street food like mishkaki (marinated meat skewers), chips mayai (potato omelet), and local juice blends at a busy hub like Kariakoo.
Walk the Slave Route in Bagamoyo: Follow the historical path from the Old Fort to the Kaole Ruins, tracing the dark history of the 19th-century East African slave trade.
Shop for Souvenirs at Mwenge Carvers Market: Browse and buy intricate wood carvings, tinga-tinga paintings, and other Tanzanian handicrafts directly from the artists.
Enjoy Sunset Dhow Cruise on the Indian Ocean: Take a relaxing late-afternoon cruise on a traditional dhow to enjoy the views of Dar es Salaam’s skyline from the water as the sun sets.
Visit the Kaole Ruins (Bagamoyo): Explore the 13th-century ruins of an ancient Swahili settlement, including two well-preserved mosques and tombs, predating the Omani Arab presence.
Attend a Taarab or Bongo Flava Performance: Seek out venues in Dar es Salaam where you can experience live local music, from the traditional, poetic Taarab of the coast to the modern, popular Bongo Flava.
Take a Ferry to Zanzibar: Use Dar es Salaam as a jumping-off point by taking a fast ferry to Stone Town, Zanzibar, for a convenient multi-destination trip.
Local Tips & Transport
Dar es Salaam’s Commuter Buses (Daladala): Daladala are the public minibuses and the primary mode of transport. They are very cheap, but routes can be confusing and they are often crowded. Not recommended for first-time visitors unless you are with a local.
Ride-Hailing and Taxis: For convenient, safe, and often air-conditioned transport in Dar es Salaam, use ride-hailing apps (like Uber or Bolt) or negotiate the fare with a reputable taxi driver before getting in.
The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System: The BRT network offers a more reliable and less crowded option on its dedicated lanes, connecting key parts of the city. Look for the distinctive red and white buses and pay at the stations.
Getting to Bagamoyo: Bagamoyo is about 75 km north of Dar es Salaam. A pre-arranged private taxi or a hired driver is the most comfortable option. Public buses also run regularly from the Ubungo Bus Terminal, taking 2-3 hours depending on traffic.
Ferry to Zanzibar: Fast ferries operate multiple times a day from the Dar es Salaam port to Zanzibar. It is essential to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and arrive early for check-in.
Language and Greetings (Swahili): While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, a little effort to speak Swahili goes a long way. Use Jambo (hello) and Asante (thank you). Karibu means “welcome” or “you’re welcome.”
Bargaining at Markets: Prices at markets like Kariakoo or Mwenge are not fixed. Bargaining (kupunguziana) is expected, polite, and a standard part of the transaction. Start negotiations at about 50-70% of the asking price.
Dress Code: Tanzania is a conservative country, especially the coastal areas with a significant Muslim population. In Dar es Salaam, casual wear is fine, but in Bagamoyo and other local areas, women should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect. Swimwear is only appropriate on the beach or at a hotel pool.
The Pace of Life (Polepole): The cultural concept of polepole (slowly, slowly) dictates the pace of life. Things may take longer than expected—be patient and try to relax into the local rhythm.
Safety and Valuables: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets. It is best to leave flashy jewelry and large amounts of cash locked up and only carry what you need for the day.
Hidden Gems:
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic-style Catholic cathedral near the port with stunning stained-glass windows, a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
- The Old Boma (Bagamoyo): Built by the Germans, this structure offers a glimpse into the colonial administration history and features impressive coral-stone architecture.
- The Azania Front Lutheran Church: Located on the waterfront, this red-tiled church is one of Dar es Salaam’s most recognizable landmarks and a lovely spot for photos.
- Coco Beach (Oyster Bay): A popular local spot where vendors sell street food and cold drinks, especially vibrant in the late afternoon and evening.
Top Restaurants
Mamboz Corner BBQ – Kisutu [$5-$15] – A vibrant, authentic street-food hotspot known for its incredible grilled meats, like mishkaki (skewers) and the legendary Khalifa Chicken Rotisserie, often served with unique sauces.
Holiday Out [$5-$10] – A long-standing, no-frills local canteen in downtown Dar, popular with office workers for affordable and delicious Tanzanian staples like wali na samaki (rice and fish) and ndizi na nyama (plantain and meat).
Choma Hut [$10-$20] – A lively spot, especially popular in the Masaki area, offering a blend of African seafood and street food, specializing in barbecue choma.
Chef’s Pride [$5-$15] – A local institution, particularly for lunch, near the Kariakoo market district, serving affordable and authentic East African cuisine.
Jahazi Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Dar, this restaurant offers excellent, large portions of fresh seafood with Swahili/Arabic decor, drawing inspiration from a traditional fishing dhow.
Mamboz Masaki [$10-$25] – One of Mamboz’s popular branches offering delicious local dishes including grilled meats and various fresh fish preparations in a lively setting.
The City Council Market (Ferry Fish Market) [Varies] – A quintessential Dar es Salaam experience—purchase fresh seafood directly from the fishermen and have a nearby stall prepare it on the spot (typically fried or grilled) with sides like ugali or chips.
Samaki Samaki [$15-$30] – With a name that means “Fish, Fish” in Swahili, this popular spot focuses heavily on seafood prepared in various local styles, often featuring a lively atmosphere and music.
Mama Afrika Restaurant [$10-$20] – A great choice for authentic African cuisine in Dar, providing a homely atmosphere and classic Tanzanian dishes.
305 Karafuu [$10-$25] – Tucked away in a local neighborhood, this family-run spot is loved for serving up some of the best Tanzanian cuisine and curries in an intimate, non-touristy setting.
Triniti Bar (Lunch) [$10-$20] – While known for its lively nightlife, this spot is a favorite among locals during the day for hearty, well-priced Tanzanian lunch fare.
Addis in Dar [$10-$25] – A well-established, family-owned Ethiopian restaurant on Kisutu Street offering a communal dining experience with traditional Ethiopian cuisine, like various stews served on injera bread.
Rohobot Ethiopian Restaurant [$10-$20] – A smaller, more local-frequented Ethiopian restaurant in Dar es Salaam, known for its unpretentious atmosphere and authentic dishes.
Chapan Bhog [$5-$15] – A popular and budget-friendly gem for South East Indian cuisine, known for its delicious, affordable vegetarian snacks and dishes.
Angithi Restaurant [$15-$30] – A highly-regarded Indian restaurant, particularly known for its excellent Tandoori dishes and traditional Indian fare.
Chili and Lime [$15-$30] – An exceptional Indian restaurant located on Kisutu Street, praised for its outstanding flavors and good selection of dishes.
Patio [$10-$20] – A great casual spot in Dar es Salaam that is celebrated for serving what many consider the best shawarma in the city, alongside other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern options.
Cairo Egyptian Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers the rich and authentic flavors of Egyptian cuisine in Dar es Salaam, providing a unique cultural dining experience.
Toranj [$20-$40] – A dining experience in Dar es Salaam focused on authentic Persian cuisine and traditional Iranian flavors.
Angithi Restaurant [$15-$30] – A delightful spot for authentic and well-priced Indian cuisine, with the tandoori options being particularly recommended.
Angithi Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located on Bagamoyo Road, this Indian restaurant offers beautiful food with a homely atmosphere and commendably attentive service.
Bagamoyo Restaurant & Camping (Bagamoyo) [$10-$25] – A cozy lounge and restaurant right on the beach in Bagamoyo, known for its family kitchen offering delicious pizzas and freshly grilled fish.
Oceanic Bay Hotel & Resort – Bougainvillea Restaurant (Bagamoyo) [$20-$40] – The main restaurant at this resort, well-known for its wide choices of Continental, Indian, and African dishes, utilizing fresh vegetables and spices from the Oceanic Farm. Note: A more upscale option in Bagamoyo.
The Waterfront (Slipway Hotel) [$20-$40] – Although part of a hotel, this spot is a favorite for its fantastic setting overlooking the ocean, serving good pizzas, burgers, and a wide variety of grilled meats and seafood.
Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant [$25-$50] – A serene beachfront getaway on the Swahili coast offering excellent seafood and Italian-Mediterranean cuisine with local nuances. Note: A worth-it hotel restaurant.
The Fishmonger Restaurant [$20-$40] – Known for serving some of the freshest seafood in Dar es Salaam with stunning ocean views.
Karambezi Cafe [$25-$50] – Located at the Sea Cliff Hotel with a stunning view of the sea from the Msasani peninsula, offering refined international cuisine and an excellent seafood platter. Note: A worthy hotel option for the view/ambiance.
The Boodles Restaurant [$30-$50] – Specializes in seafood and grills, sourcing the freshest seafood daily from the fish market and preparing steaks on a lava grill.
Veranda Tapas Bar [$20-$40] – A multiethnic fusion restaurant serving up perfectly sized, shareable tapas morsels with a range of influences.
305 Karafuu [$15-$30] – This small-scale, family-run spot is tucked away and features contemporary art, offering a unique and intimate dining experience with delicious local food.
Kinaya – Rooftop Restaurant and Bar [$30-$60] – Perched on the 16th floor of Aura Suites, this international rooftop restaurant features a modern, minimalist design and an exquisite menu blending Indian, Continental, Oriental, and African cuisines.
Akemi Revolving Restaurant [$30-$60] – Tanzania’s first and only revolving restaurant, located atop one of Dar’s tallest buildings, offering a 360-degree view and a wide menu of Continental, African, and Asian dishes. Note: Worth it for the unique experience and view.
The Spice Route Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers exquisite dining that merges local flavors with international cuisine.
Lock & Barrel Restaurant [$20-$40] – Known for its mix of local flavors and international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Palm Restaurant [$30-$50] – Overlooking a garden, this restaurant specializes in Western cuisine and offers a high-quality dining experience.
The Alcove Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers Asian fusion cuisine, with a focus on both Asian flavors and a sophisticated dining setting.
Amalfi Mediterranean Kitchen [$25-$45] – Focuses on exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, blending tradition with modern taste.
The Desi Bistro ~ Indian Restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – A lively spot offering authentic Indian flavors alongside a bar for a vibrant dining experience.
G’eez Hangout – Restaurant & Pizza [$15-$30] – A cozy restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine, including highly-rated pizzas.
Suedes [$40-$70] – Described as an exclusive fine dining experience in Dar es Salaam, offering Continental and seafood dishes to those seeking a quality and memorable meal.
Shooters Grill [$25-$45] – A steak house and wine bar located high atop Oyster Plaza, known for its premium steak cuts and great views.
Oriental Restaurant (Hyatt Regency) [$30-$60] – An excellent Asian restaurant serving high-quality Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine. Note: A worthy exception for high-quality Asian food.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Akemi Restaurant & Bar: Perched on the 20th floor of the Golden Jubilee Tower in Dar es Salaam’s City Centre, this revolving restaurant and bar offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying classic cocktails with panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor.
The Mbalamwezi Beach Club: Located on the northern side of the city in Kawe Beach, this vibrant bar is right on the ocean, perfect for enjoying tropical cocktails, fresh seafood, and a classic beach vibe.
The Hyatt Kilimanjaro Level 8: This elegant bar and lounge on the 8th floor of the Hyatt Regency in Dar es Salaam’s City Centre provides stunning views over the harbor and serves expertly crafted cocktails in a refined atmosphere.
Capetown Fish Market: Situated near the beach in the Oyster Bay area, this popular spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, great cocktails, and is particularly known for its excellent fresh seafood.
Triniti Oyster Bay: A trendy and upscale venue in the diplomatic area of Oyster Bay, Dar es Salaam, known for its contemporary design, extensive wine list, and creative cocktails, making it a hotspot for a chic evening out.
Shades Bar (Southern Sun): An intimate and chic bar in the Southern Sun hotel, centrally located in Dar es Salaam, offering a quiet escape and a good selection of spirits and cocktails, ideal for a pre-dinner drink.
The Slow Leopard: Found in the lively Oyster Bay neighborhood, this expatriate-friendly pub serves simple drinks and is a popular social hub with a laid-back, sports-bar feel.
The Waterfront Sunset Restaurant & Bar: Located in Msasani Bay, Dar es Salaam, this venue offers a beautiful deck setting right over the water, making it a prime spot for enjoying a sundowner cocktail with a view of the sunset.
Q-Bar: A popular, long-standing watering hole in Msasani, Dar es Salaam, known for its relaxed patio seating and being a casual spot for cocktails, beer, and a lively, social crowd.
Kobe Suites & Hotel Rooftop: The rooftop bar of this hotel in the Kinondoni area provides a fantastic spot for cocktails with an elevated view, often featuring a calm, breezy ambiance away from the city bustle.
Bagamoyo Country Club Bar: Located within the club premises in Bagamoyo, this bar provides a tranquil escape and a historical backdrop to enjoy a relaxing drink after a day of exploring the ancient town.
Karambezi Café: A cliff-top location at the White Sands Hotel in Kunduchi, Dar es Salaam, offering breathtaking ocean views and a casual, breezy setting to sip on tropical cocktails.
George & Dragon: This classic pub in Msasani, Dar es Salaam, is known for its traditional English pub feel and serves standard drinks and cocktails to a loyal local and expat following.
Element Dar Es Salaam: A modern and stylish venue in Msasani that often hosts live music and events, providing a vibrant backdrop to enjoy a diverse menu of cocktails.
The Mediterraneo Hotel: This serene hotel on the shores of Kawe Beach features a bar perfect for enjoying a quiet cocktail right by the Indian Ocean.
New Maisha Club: Located in Msasani, Dar es Salaam, this is one of the most well-known and energetic nightclubs, famous for its lavish setting, large dance floor, and playing a mix of local Bongo Flava and international hits.
High Spirit Lounge Bar: While it has a sophisticated lounge feel, this popular spot in the Oyster Bay area transforms into a high-energy club, featuring live DJ sets and themed nights.
Jahazi Club: Situated in the Msasani Peninsula, Dar es Salaam, this club is a hub for high-octane weekend nightlife, attracting a trendy crowd with its modern sound system and mix of African and global music.
Elements Nightclub: Found in the bustling Kijitonyama neighborhood, this venue is known for drawing a young, energetic crowd and is a go-to spot for Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, and commercial music.
Sky Club: Located in Mikocheni, Dar es Salaam, this club offers a great space for dancing, often hosting special events and international DJs, and is a key destination for weekend revelers.
Papillon Social: Located in the Msasani area, this popular spot has a dual personality—a lounge that turns into a full-fledged nightclub, favored for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music policy.
Coco Beach: An iconic location on Oyster Bay, while technically an open public area, it hosts massive outdoor parties and impromptu club-like gatherings on weekends and public holidays, especially popular with the local youth.
Kibo Palace Club: A large and often busy club located within a prominent hotel in the City Centre, known for attracting a diverse audience and offering a mainstream mix of dance music.
The Black Rose Club: Tucked away in the Mbezi Beach area, this club is popular with the residents of the northern suburbs, providing a lively atmosphere away from the central city hustle.
Club Bilicanas: One of the most historic and legendary nightclubs in Dar es Salaam’s City Centre, this venue is known for its large size and for showcasing both local and continental musical talent.