Best Places To Visit In Dar es Salaam

Travellers who visit Tanzania do so mostly to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro or explore Zanzibar Island, rarely will you find Dar es Salam on their itineraries. But they do not know what they are missing because Dar es Salam is the largest city in Tanzania. The city is steeped in culture and is home to some wonderful beaches and islands. The city is known for its seafood as well as its music. The city is also known fondly as the “city of peace”, and when you visit this city, be sure to visit and explore the following places.

Mbudya Island:

If you like pristine waters and clean beaches then Mbudya is the best place to go to. If you wish to relax and unwind in the sun and take a dip in the clear waters, there is no better place other than Mbudya. You can go snorkelling if you wish, you can bring your own gear or you can rent it here. If you like boating you can take a boat ride along the coast.

Kivukoni Fish Market:

While in Dar es Salaam a visit to the Kivukoni fish market is essential. You can watch the fishermen unloading the fishes as well as take in the auction that is held at 7 am every day. It is an experience that you will never forget. Fish markets will smell and if you cannot bear the stench, stay away.

Coco Beach:

Coco Beach is where tourists head when they stay at Dar es Salaam. The beach also goes by the name Oyster Bay. If you love to party, then you can take part in the many beach parties that are usually scheduled here. If you are in luck you may even witness live music on the beach. For the people who want to enjoy the nightlife, Coco Beach is the place you need to go to as there are many night clubs around the beach.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral:

The architecture of the Cathedral must be seen to be believed. The Archbishop of Dar es Salaam stays here. The choir is famous and you should visit and listen to them singing.

Askari Monument:

If you come across a statue of an Askari soldier in WWI attire then you have come across the Askari monument. The soldier’s bayonet points towards the ocean and the statue commemorates the honour of the soldiers who fought for British Africa. It is believed that the statue is in the exact centre of Dar es Salaam.

Mwenge Woodcarvers Market: The name says it all, it is a market featuring wood carvers and their wooden carvings. You can find a lot of souvenirs to take back at this place. If you are interested in the artisanship you can check out the workshops near the stalls. You will find a lot of sculptures here. The best part is that you can get the sculptures and other products at very good prices if you drive a hard bargain. Bargaining is accepted and you need not worry.

Once you have finished exploring the city, you can take flights from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. or to any other destination that you are headed to.