48 HOURS IN DAR ES SALAAM- Things To Do
Whether you are playing tourist, visiting family, or are here for a business trip, Dar es Salaam is one of Tanzania’s ‘most happening’ cities.
From narrow alleys boasting Street food to local stores, to ocean-facing landmarks and lively beaches, there is so much to do here. And that is why we thought to introduce you to Dar es Salaam – Things to do here that you will never regret.
SANDBANK PICNICS
Dar es Salaam is surrounded by a rich coastline with few isolated sandbanks such as Mbudya and Bongoyo, mostly visited for snorkeling and to enjoy a day out in a serene established in 1934 is of special interest to history lovers. The museum exhibits bones location with pristine views. Ideal for weekends, you can rent a ride (from hotels/ private companies) and sail to one of the islands on the weekend.
NATIONAL MUSEUM
Situated in the heart of the city and close to the botanical garden, this landmark of Paranthropus boisei of Olduvai, the history of the Shirazi city-state of Kilwa, colonial rule, and collections on Tanzanian cultures. If you are on a city tour or spending 48 hours in Dare es Salaam looking for 10 things to do, the National Museum is a must-visit.
ART TOUR
Dar es Salaam is home to many skilled artists, from painters to creative welders, visiting art markets is beyond a delight. Tinga Tinga paintings in Oysterbay, wood carvings in Mwenge, metal, and recycled crafts at Wonder Welders, and the art market at Slipway make for perfect places to buy souvenirs.
NIGHT CLUBS
One of the biggest attractions in Dar es Salaam is the nightclubs by the peninsular and beyond. From delicious food and groovy DJ nights and not to forget full moon parties, the city gets exciting by night. Some of the popular nightclubs are Elements, George and Dragon, Havoc, and Samaki Samaki.
CITY TOUR
Enjoy a half or full-day city tour with expert guides who take you around landmarks. From religious institutes to museums, community visits, and local markets, city tours are enriching and give you an opportunity to know more about daily life in Dar es Salaam things to do here besides business and beyond.
KIVUKONI FISHMARKET
If you wonder where the fresh catch and tasty seafood comes from, a visit to the fish market makes for a unique experience. The market begins at sunrise with a big fish auction and the other side is where the fishes are cut, cleaned, and cooked.
VILLAGE MUSEUM/ MAKUMBUSHO VILLAGE
Opened in 1996, the village museum is an ethnographical project showcasing traditional huts from 16 different Tanzanian ethnic groups. It is located in the outskirts of the city on the road to Mwenge and Bagamoyo. Guests get to see traditional cultivations, traditional music and, daily dance shows.
BOTANICAL GARDEN
Although less popular, the botanical garden is an admirable place with an enchanting mix of exotic plants such as blue jacaranda, scarlet trees, and purple bougainvillea. The garden is a peaceful place to spend evenings away from the hustle and in the company of peacocks and other birds.
STREET FOOD
From dusk to dawn most streets in Dar es Salaam are brimming with business, people, and the most prominent – food. Street vendors selling fruits, roasted cassava and black coffee, and meals like beans and rice can be easily spotted on the streets. A delicious fusion of Asian and Swahili cuisine at restaurants or the barbeque chicken and chips, by evening, is another special attraction.
SAFARI TO BEACHES
Dar es Salaam and the things to do here are not limited to typical city breaks. You can visit Mikumi or Nyerere National Park and upon return relax on white sands beaches. This is a perfect option for those on business and leisure trips or waiting to connect to their main safari destination.
Here is a popular Southern Circuit Safari (customizable) Tour with a starting point from Dar es Salaam.
With so much to explore in 48 hours or more, we are sure you need a city expert for a fulfilling experience. Write to us and we will customize a bespoke itinerary for you.
Cover image courtesy
Peter Mitchell- Unsplash.com