Things to do in Dar Es Salaam
With a vast and turbulent history, Dar es Salaam isn't a renowned sightseeing destination, but it does offer many attractions for holidaymakers, and the city's down-to-earth atmosphere makes it pleasant to explore.
The main attractions in and around Dar es Salaam are actually natural, including the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve, the Pugu Hills Forest Reserve, and Bongoyo Island, which can be reached by a short boat ride. Visitors may also enjoy a trip to the Zoological Gardens, or a quiet afternoon at the Dar es Salaam Botanical Gardens, a lush sanctuary in the urban jungle.
For beach lovers, Kigamboni (South Beach) is situated just beyond central Dar es Salaam. An affluent area almost entirely filled with beach resorts, some of the best beaches in Dar es Salaam are to be found in Kigamboni. Many hotels charge an entry fee, though a portion of this is returned in the form of food vouchers.
For those wanting a taste of the local culture and history there are a number of good museums in Dar es Salaam, the most popular being the National Museum and the Makumbusho Village Museum.
National Museum and House of Culture
Located near to the Botanical Gardens, the National Museum and House of Culture was opened in 1940 in the King George V Memorial Museum. A new wing was built in 1963 and King Georg…
Makumbusho Village Museum
A popular tourist attraction, the Makumbusho Village Museum displays traditional Tanzanian homes and lifestyles, representing about 18 ethnic tribes from different parts of the cou…
Bongoyo Island
Located one and a half miles (2.5km) north of Dar es Salaam, Bongoyo Island is an uninhabited island that makes up part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve. Popular with tourists a…
