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Dar es Salaam

Tanzania · Coast · TZS · -6.800000, 39.283300
Family friendly 5.4/10 · Rank 1983 of 2 709
Best season: June-September (dry and cool)

Best for

For all types of travellers: city life, history, beaches and authentic African atmosphere.

Best season

June-September (dry and cool)

Daily budget
$62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽)
For 7 days
$434.00 (≈ 36 421 ₽)
Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and its economic capital, located on the coast of the Indian Ocean. This bustling metropolis features the colourful Kariakoo market, the National Museum, and botanical gardens. The city serves as the main gateway for travellers arriving in the country and as a starting point for trips to Zanzibar and the southern national parks.
Summer
30.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
29.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, used to tourists.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich culture and history
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Proximity to Zanzibar
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • Traffic jams and noise
  • Beach pollution
  • Crime (theft, scams)
  • Malaria
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
30.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
32.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
27.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
March-May (long rains), October-December (short rains)
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
golden sand (Coco Beach, Kunduchi)
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
moderate (strong low tides)
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate (murky at low tide)
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Coco Beach, Kunduchi Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are rip currents, water pollution, sea urchins, corals and jellyfish. No lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins occur on coral reefs and rocky areas, especially near the coastal reefs.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Sharp coral reefs along the coast, do not step on them as they can cause cuts.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish occasionally appear along the coast, stings can be painful.

Sharks — details

  • Sharks are present in coastal waters, but attacks are extremely rare. Mostly small reef sharks.
Attractions

National Museum of Tanzania

The country's main museum with exhibits on history, archaeology and culture, including ancient hominid remains.

Mwanyanya Craft Village

Centre of traditional crafts where you can buy souvenirs and see wood carving and weaving workshops.

Kariakoo Market

Lively market with fabrics, spices, local produce and souvenirs. The heart of Dar es Salaam.

Coco Beach Waterfront

Popular oceanfront promenade with cafes, restaurants and sunset views.

Bongoyo Island

Historic island with ruins of a 19th-century slave fort, accessible by boat.

Malila Falls National Park

Scenic park with waterfalls, walking trails and wildlife viewing, ~30 km from the city.

Best areas

Dar es Salaam City Centre

Main area with museums, markets and restaurants.

Coco Beach

Popular coastal area with a promenade, cafes and hotels.

Oyster Bay

Prestigious residential area with embassies and good restaurants.

Kunduchi

Coastal area north of the city with beaches and hotels.

Must-try food

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat (beef, goat or chicken), a popular Tanzanian dish, served with sauce and vegetables.

Ugali

Thick porridge made from maize flour, served with meat or vegetable sauce. The main side dish in Tanzania.

Grilled Fish (Samaki)

Fish caught in the Indian Ocean, grilled with lemon and herbs.

Biriyani

Rice with meat or chicken, cooked with aromatic spices, a popular East African dish.

Samosa

Fried triangular pastries with meat or vegetable filling, a popular street snack.

Mandazi

Sweet fried doughnuts, a popular breakfast or snack.

Where to go next

Zanzibar

Famous island with historic Stone Town and beaches, ~2 hours by ferry.

Bagamoyo

Historic town with colonial architecture and beaches, ~1.5 hours by car.

Saadani National Park

Tanzania's only national park where you can see wildlife on the beach, ~3 hours by car.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Джулиуса Ньерере (DAR).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa or visa on arrival (from $50)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-September (dry and cool)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$65.00
≈ 5 455 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
Dar es Salaam: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-September (dry and cool). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Dar es Salaam: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Dar es Salaam: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Dar es Salaam: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Dar es Salaam: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on March-May (long rains), October-December (short rains). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Dar es Salaam: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "golden sand (Coco Beach, Kunduchi)" surface, golden sand, moderate (murky at low tide) water. The most popular beaches: Coco Beach, Kunduchi Beach. The beaches have cafes and bars.
Dar es Salaam: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas.
Dar es Salaam: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish, sharks. Main dangers are rip currents, water pollution, sea urchins, corals and jellyfish. No lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Dar es Salaam: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Dar es Salaam: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $40.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $65.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $120.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $100.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Dar es Salaam: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Dar es Salaam: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Dar es Salaam: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: National Museum of Tanzania — The country's main museum with exhibits on history, archaeology and culture, including ancient hominid remains.; Mwanyanya Craft Village — Centre of traditional crafts where you can buy souvenirs and see wood carving and weaving workshops.; Kariakoo Market — Lively market with fabrics, spices, local produce and souvenirs. The heart of Dar es Salaam.; Coco Beach Waterfront — Popular oceanfront promenade with cafes, restaurants and sunset views.; Bongoyo Island — Historic island with ruins of a 19th-century slave fort, accessible by boat.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Dar es Salaam: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Nyama Choma — Grilled meat (beef, goat or chicken), a popular Tanzanian dish, served with sauce and vegetables.; Ugali — Thick porridge made from maize flour, served with meat or vegetable sauce. The main side dish in Tanzania.; Grilled Fish (Samaki) — Fish caught in the Indian Ocean, grilled with lemon and herbs.; Biriyani — Rice with meat or chicken, cooked with aromatic spices, a popular East African dish.; Samosa — Fried triangular pastries with meat or vegetable filling, a popular street snack.; Mandazi — Sweet fried doughnuts, a popular breakfast or snack.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Dar es Salaam: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Dar es Salaam City Centre — Main area with museums, markets and restaurants.; Coco Beach — Popular coastal area with a promenade, cafes and hotels.; Oyster Bay — Prestigious residential area with embassies and good restaurants.; Kunduchi — Coastal area north of the city with beaches and hotels.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Dar es Salaam: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa or visa on arrival (from $50). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Dar es Salaam: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Джулиуса Ньерере (code DAR). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Dar es Salaam: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — TZS. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $62.00 (≈ 5 203 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Dar es Salaam: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Dar es Salaam: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Dar es Salaam: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Zanzibar — Famous island with historic Stone Town and beaches, ~2 hours by ferry.; Bagamoyo — Historic town with colonial architecture and beaches, ~1.5 hours by car.; Saadani National Park — Tanzania's only national park where you can see wildlife on the beach, ~3 hours by car.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.4/10
Overall rank: 1983 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1186

Best season

June-September (dry and cool)

Useful information

Currency: TZS
Coordinates: -6.800000, 39.283300