Tours leaving from Dar es Salaam on Jul 1, 2026

The biggest and wealthiest city in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is the coastal port where most travellers start or finish their Tanzania safaris. One of the fastest-growing cities in the world, Dar es Salaam hosts a population of over 7 million people. This bustling metropolis is Tanzania's main political, trade and travel hub, serving as the gateway to Zanzibar Islands, the famous Northern Safari Circuit which includes the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater and the less-visited Southern Tanzania game reserves like Nyerere and Ruaha national parks. Many East African safaris visit Dar es Salaam en route elsewhere, like our Dar es Salaam Tours, some of which start or end in the city.

The city retains an old-world charm and character from its humble beginnings as a fishing village in 1862. Traditional dhow sailing boats and handcrafted canoes bob beside cargo ships in the bustling harbour where fishermen go about their daily lives. Dar es Salaam is a chaotic and friendly cosmopolitan city with a fusion of cultures where Swahili, Arabic, Indian, colonial British and German influences combine. 

Dar es Salaam Safari - Getting There

The best way to get to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania is to fly into the Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), 12km southwest of the city centre. One of East Africa’s busiest airports, you can fly to Julius Nyerere International Airport from numerous international destinations.

You can also travel to Dar es Salaam overland from Arusha, Tanzania's safari capital. Arusha is about 390 mi (628 km) from Dar es Salaam, about an 8-hour drive, and over 10 hours by bus. Alternatively, you can get to Dar from Nairobi in Kenya overland by bus, train or car. It takes about 13 hours to drive the 900 km (559 mi) from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam, a trip best undertaken on an organised group tour with a local driver.

Dar es Salaam Accommodation

Dar es Salaam has numerous accommodation options, including beach resorts just north and south of the city and hotels in the bustling city. 

As with most large cities, location is the most important factor when booking your Dar es Salaam accommodation. Some areas of Dar are safer than others and more conveniently located for exploring and transiting through the city. Most of our Tanzania safaris starting or ending in Dar es Salaam do not include the cost of accommodation in Dar es Salaam, which can be booked separately upon request. For help booking safe and affordable accommodation in Dar es Salaam, talk to one of our travel experts at African Budget Safaris. 

Things to Do in Dar es Salaam - Activities & Attractions

The Best Things to Do in Dar es Salaam City

• Local markets - Kariakoo Market, Kivukoni Fish Market, Mwenge Carvers’ Market and more
• Askari Monument - historical bronze statue in the centre of Dar es Salaam in memory of the Carrier Corps who fought in World War I
• Religious & Architectural Highlights - Temple Road, Azania Lutheran Church, the St Joseph’s Cathedral and more
• National Museum and House of Culture -  cultural heritage, fossils from Olduvai Gorge and a vintage car collection
• Wonder Workshop & Tingatinga Art Center - local arts and crafts created by disabled artisans, including sculptures, jewellery, and brightly coloured Tingatinga paintings
• Eat out and sample local street food - Mishkaki kebabs, roasted corn on the cob, and roasted meat (nyama choma)

Activities & Attractions near Dar es Salaam

• Beaches near Dar - north to Jangwani and Mbuja or Bongoyo Islands, or south to Kipepeo in the Kigamboni area
• Mikumi National Park safari -  guided wildlife safaris 4 hours drive from the city 
• Village Museum - traditional Tanzanian homes and lifestyles

Is Dar es Salaam Safe?

Yes, overall Dar es Salaam is a safe city to visit. There is crime in the city, but with common sense and careful planning, most visitors do not have any negative experiences in Dar es Salaam. Follow trusted local advice and avoid areas known to be unsafe. Do not wear expensive jewellery and accessories out and about, be vigilant of pickpockets in markets and busy public places. Avoid walking around the city after dark.

For more travel tips and details about Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, visit our free Dar es Salaam Safari Guide.