DAR ES SALAAM

Dar es-Salaam is a sprawling urban city in Tanzania that serves as an economic, cultural, and administrative hub for the country.

Non-business visitors only tend to stop through Dar es-Salaam en route to Mt. Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar, and the city itself isn’t necessarily a tourist a destination. You won’t find nice information centers, posh restaurants, and souvenir shops with “I Love Dar es-Salaam” merchandise. But you will get to experience what an authentic East African city looks like.

To truly experience the heartbeat of Dar es-Salaam, pay a visit to the local markets. The Kariakoo Market spans across several city blocks, and you’ll find everything from used remote controls to fruits and vegetables. Another must-see market is the Kivukoni Fish Market. Be a spectator as people furiously bid on the latest catch, and marvel at all the different types of fish for sale that are coming in straight off the boats. Note: before taking any photos in these markets, it’s customary to ask permission first.

 Other points of interest to consider seeing in Dar es-Salaam include the Azania Lutheran Church, the National Museum, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Askari Monument. These sites are embedded in the fabric of Dar es-Salaam. You likely won’t see any other tourists, and there is minimal information available on site.

 There are travel opportunities that lie further away from the city center as well. For culture and history lovers, consider visiting the historic coastal town of Bagamoyo, the Village Museum, the Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society, or the Mwenge Woodcarvers Market. If relaxing by a beach sounds more enjoyable, perhaps head to Coco Beach, South Beach, or the White Sands Beach Resort. Adventure seekers might even enjoy trekking out to Mbudya Island, which is home to one of the most untouched beaches in Tanzania and accessible via ferry from White Sands Beach Resort.

 Another option is to hop on a ferry and head to Zanzibar, which is a 100-minute ride each way. While your ship might already be stopping in Zanzibar, it’s a gem of Tanzania full of exciting travel options, and you may wish to extend your time there.

 Dar es-Salaam is a bustling Tanzanian city that’s for the people, not for tourists. It’s a fascinating chance to observe daily life and experience the heartbeat of Tanzania.