Dar Es Salam, the capital city of Tanzania drawing visitors from far and wide is a beautiful blend of modernity, and cultural richness. The fact that it is the administrative centre of the country and is home to government institutions, as well as foreign embassies, further adds an element of importance to the city. The present-day city provides all tourists with beautiful glimpses of the vision that its planners have for the future of the nation. If you also hope to get glimpses into what the city has to offer, then our capable team will surely be able to assist you. You might hope to travel on first class flights or premium economy flights, with nearly 25 years of experience behind us we will be able to assist you in fully planning every aspect of your travelling from Gatwick to Dar Es Salam.

Attractions in Dar Es Salaam

Dar Es Salaam contains many cultural and historical attractions, including the Nafasi Art Space, St Joseph Cathedral and State House. The city also has several educational and research institutes that help to preserve and promote African culture. Furthermore, the city has a diversified population, with people from a many ethnic, linguistic, and cultural origins calling it their home. 

Culinary Delights of Dar Es Salaam

Tanzanian cuisine is surprisingly filling and delicious. After tasting delicacies in this thriving town, you will become an ardent fan of African food. Some of the dishes which you should try out while exploring the city’s food scene are Coconut Bean Soup, Mishkaki, Ndizi Kaanga and Supu Ya Ndizi.

How many days are sufficient to complete sightseeing in Dar Es Salaam?

It will take you roughly 4-5 days to thoroughly explore all that the city has to offer. The places which are a hit with tourists coming to the city are the Village Museum, Mbudya Island, The Slipway Shopping Center and Kariakoo Market. Furthermore, as the nation''s capital, the city is home to several administrative hubs that visitors visiting the area on business often visit.

The best time to visit Dar Es Salaam

As a rule of thumb, the best time to pay a visit to Tanzania and Dar Es Salaam is the dry season from July to October, when humidity levels are low and you can be assured of clear, cloudless skies and bright blue Indian Ocean waters.

Have already made up your mind to fly from Gatwick to Dar Es Salam? You will be able to make use of our booking services for first class flights as well as economy flights and get flight deals even at the eleventh hour. With our website Pack and Fly, you will certainly be assured of a memorable and hassle-free travel experience.

DISTANCE FROM DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The international airport in Dar Es Salaam, the biggest city in Tanzania, is Julius Nyerere International Airport (IATA: DAR, ICAO: HTDA). Reaching the airport by automobile takes 42 minutes, and it''''s around 19.4 km from the city centre. You can get transit even if you come at odd hours, such as late at night or early in the morning, because the city is well-planned and the airport is connected to the main city. Due to this characteristic, Dar Es Salaam is a well-liked travel location for female and lone tourists. The city is easily reachable, regardless of whether you travel or economy flights or business class flights.

DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TRANSPORT

To ensure that Dar Es Salaam becomes a popular tourist destination in Africa, the administration has made a lot of effort to ensure proper connectivity to the city. The different modes of transportation which you can make use of are:-

Taxis: Operating 24/7, these are the most popular means for tourists to go to the main city from the airport. A taxi will take roughly 15 to 20 minutes to take you to the airport and will charge you about TZS 40,000 (£ 14).

Bus: The main advantage of travelling by bus is that it is affordable, costing roughly TZS 400 (£ 0.17).

Have you booked your ticket for business class flights? Then you have the additional option of requesting the airline staff to arrange for pick up and drop off from the airport. This facility is provided by nearly all commuter airlines operating flights between Gatwick and Dar Es Salaam.

FLYING TIME FROM GATWICK TO DAR ES SALAAM

Roughly 14 to 13 hours are sufficient to travel from Gatwick Airport to Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.

The exact amount of time to reach Dar Es Salaam depends:-

Specific route taken by the airline

Exact conditions at stopovers

Air traffic conditions

Prevailing weather conditions at the destination and along the way

On account of the large distance between London and Dar Es Salaam, no airlines operate direct flights along this route.

Some of the common stopovers which are encountered by travellers going along this route are:-

Frankfurt

Cairo

Jeddah

Dubai

You might decide to travel by premium economy flights or business class flights your luggage will be routed to the destination of your choice. This feature saves a great deal of worry and harassment for all passengers and is a beneficial feature.

ATTRACTIONS IN DAR ES SALAAM

Tanzania’s largest city, Dar Es Salaam is a major financial and commercial hub in East Africa. Places which you can visit to get an authentic Tanzanian experience are:

National Museum and House of Culture: Situated in the city centre of Dar Es Salaam, this musuem is easily accessible by tourists coming to the city. On display here are exhibits showcasing Tanzanian history, art and culture. Roughly 2-3 hours will be sufficient to fully explore the museums exhibits. Want to avoid the maddening crowd and the heat? then the best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon.

Coco Beach: Located along the coastline, about 7 kilometres from the city center, this is the perfect spot to unwind after a tiring day spent sightseeing. You can go for a swim in the Indian Ocean, savour mouth-watering delicacies in kiosks by the beach or just relax by the sandy shores. The ideal spot for joggers, and fitness enthusiasts who come in large numbers in the evening. The beach has obtained top ratings in innumerable magazines covering developments in the travel and tourism industry in Africa.

Kariakoo Market: Spanning several city blocks, the market contributes substantially to the food provision and the small-scale economy. About 1-2 hours will be sufficient to explore it fully. It offers a vibrant atmosphere where all visitors can go and shop for local goods, fresh produce and authentic African spices. If you want to get the best quality produce, early mornings are the best times to come and visit.

Bongoyo Island: Containing idyllic beaches, beautiful hitchhiking trails and crystal clear waters, this is the ideal destination to escape the maddening crowds of the big city. A part of the Dar Es Salaam marine conservation area, it is highly popular with tourists who might be looking for a venue for pursuing water sports such as swimming and snorkelling. An additional draw here is the fact it is home to the endangered species of endangered coconut crabs. 

St. Joseph’s Cathedral: One of the iconic landmarks of Dar Es Salaam and the current seat of the Dar Es Salaam archdiocese, the Roman Catholic Church was completed by German Missionaries in 1902. Attracting tourists from all walks of life, this is the place to go if you want to get a feel of original Gothic-style architecture. On display are many of the original German inscriptions and artwork, showcasing European influence on the city. You will be truly mesmerised by its beauty.

This city has many outdoor amenities coupled with large, open spaces which enhance the pleasure of sightseeing. A trip to the eastern part of Africa cannot be considered complete without a stop in Dar Es Salaam.

SHOPPING IN DAR ES SALAAM

If you are interested in knowing how the residents of any city lead their lives, then the best way to do so is to go shopping in its streets. Dar Es Salaam, the vibrant capital of Tanzania is no different. The city is dotted with many locales which you can pay a visit to pick up mementoes to remind you of the good time spent. A brief list of the popular shopping venues in the city are:

Chuma Art Workshop: Four artisans founded the Chuma Art Workshop in 2017 to improve the living standards of as many physically disabled artists as possible. It is a story of hope for artisans who are passionate about authentic detailing, design and sculpture of weld craft pieces. The staff in this workshop believes in the philosophy that every piece of every piece of scrap metal needs to fully complement all the others which make up the whole sculpture. Wonder Workshop has an amazing collection of artwork created through welding. A must-have for everyone who values equitable economic growth and enjoys keeping mementoes from their Tanzanian safari.

Art Garage: The art garage crew are experts at turning commonplace metal objects into exquisitely designed new constructions. Who knew that a little bit of welding could transform a bike chain into a lion''''''''s mane? Art Garage features a fantastic selection of hand-welded crafts to satisfy all preferences, whether you''''''''re looking for a little Tanzanian souvenir, a giant yard ornament, or anything in between. A place to visit if you are in the city.

Gsm Home: GSM Home is an excellent retailer of home items. They provide everything you need to improve and beautify your living area with their wide range of products. Their products are of outstanding quality, guaranteeing long-lasting durability. Their reasonable costs further make it an affordable option for house improvement. Shopping at GSM Home is made enjoyable by the staff''''''''s expertise and willingness to help. 

Quality Centre Mall: A well-liked retail centre in Dar es Salaam that provides a wide range of stores, eateries, and entertainment choices. In addition to dining at restaurants and seeing movies at the theatre, visitors can peruse local and international brands. Numerous retailers offering apparel, accessories, electronics, cosmetics, books, and household goods can be found at the mall. Additionally, this location occasionally holds events and promotions that enhance the shopping experience.

Aura Mall: Amazing brands from within and outside of Tanzania may be found at Dar es Salaam''''''''s Aura Mall, a cutting-edge retail and leisure destination. Under one roof, you may find everything from high street to luxury couture to a fantastic movie theatre. Besides there is an entire block filled with eateries and bars. You will surely have a satisfying experience after shopping here. It would take about two to three hours to thoroughly explore everything it has to offer.

The best place in Tanzania to find handcrafted items to take home is Dar Es Salaam. You should not miss out on the experience of shopping in the city. You will surely be able to get a true feel of the nation''''''''s soul by purchasing these handicrafts.

NIGHTLIFE IN DAR ES SALAAM

Planning to visit Tanzania? Well, the first thing which comes to your mind surely would be lush green plains and safaris. However, keep in mind that this country also has an amazing nightlife to offer as well. The experiences which you will have here once the sun goes down will be giving serious competition to the most happening cities in the world. The nightlife destinations where you can go and have a merry time are:

The Snow Leopard: If you are an avid sportsman and are wondering what to do at night in Dar Es Salaam, then you should head over to this pub. This is the perfect place to hand out with your gang of guys as well as enjoy some delicious fast food dishes like burgers, french fries and beer. When there is no live telecast of the game going on, you can spend grooving to great beats of the latest tracks of Afrobeats music. 

Elements: This doubles up as a restaurant and a nightclub serving quality Mediterranean and Indian Cuisine. Due to this fact, it is exceedingly popular with foreign expats visiting the city. As the sun sets, this doubles up as one of the most happening nightclubs in the whole city, playing the best party music from every corner of the world. The most popular aspect of this restaurant is that you will find delicious finger-licking foods on the menu coupled with a rich variety of cocktails to select.

Kilimanjaro Casino: An exciting casino which is situated in the Hyatt Hotel of Dar Es Salaam. After coming here you can enjoy a whole night taking risky bets and if you get lucky winning large sums of money in the process. Another popular aspect of this restaurant is the fact that you become eligible for unlimited drinks. Popular with night owls coming to the city, you must decide to visit here if you are on the lookout for an exciting experience.

Level 8: This bar fulfils the twin objectives of providing a space for a quiet and relaxed place to unwind after a long day of work as well as a venue where you can enjoy a merry time with your buddies. Offering great views and an extensive menu of food and drinks, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to looking for items to eat here. Their cocktails are classic preparations in themselves and have found mention in many magazines covering developments in the nation''''s food and beverage industry.

Havoc NightSopt: This is one of the most happening nightclubs in Dar Es Salaam. You will surely have a merry time here after tasting delicious cocktails as well as other drinks like wines and beers. Another quirky and admirable aspect of the bar is the beautiful light display catching your eye the moment you enter its premises. Weekends are the best time to visit the bar because many festivities are organized here.    

The fun, upbeat charms of nightclubs and bars in the city provide a wonderful place where you can go and enjoy yourself after dark. The above-mentioned destinations are a must visit location for everybody who comes here.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN DAR ES SALAAM

Plan to visit Dar Es Salaam, the capital of Tanzania? Then it becomes imperative to carry some copies of the local currency the Tanzanian Shilling. It is the only legal tender which is accepted by business establishments in the city. The different places in the city where you can pay a visit to have currency exchanged are:

ATM Machines: The ATM Machines operational in the airport accept international credit cards like VISA, Master card and also those by African banks CRDB. Operational round the clock, you visit them to withdraw money.

Airport Exchange Counters: You can go to airport exchange counters to get the currency of your home country exchanged for the Tanzanian Shilling.

Banks: Banks like I&M Bank and CRDB Bank are some of the leading institutions where you can go to have money exchanged. A transaction fee of roughly 2-3% will be charged to you.

Currency Exchange Agencies: The currency exchange agents listed below are a favourite with tourists coming to the city who wish to get copies of the local currency.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN DAR ES SALAAM

Are visiting Dar Es Salaam? Then your visit will be incomplete without trying out quintessential African dishes in its iconic restaurants. The places which you should visit while coming here are:-

Karambezi Cafe: Built on the edge of a cliff on the Msasani Peninsula, you can enjoy dining of finger-licking cuisines while enjoying unrivalled views of the sea. Some of the most famous items served here are cakes and seafood like fish, lobsters and crabs. The most notable feature of the restaurant is that the staff here are amiable, serving customers quality food with a smile on their faces. The best times to visit the cafe are Wednesday and Saturday evenings when it hosts live music performances by talented local musicians.

Sawasdee: One of the best Thai restaurants in town, you will be getting an authentic feel of South East Asia in this outlet. The restaurant located in the New Africa Hotel has easily become one of the most popular eateries among both locals as well as expats alike. The dishes that must be tried out by a visitor to the city are nutty Malaysian curry, pork dumplings and delicately spiced lamb. The experience of trying out these iconic Asian dishes and getting a lovely view of the city is an experience which you should not miss out on.

ChappanBhog: Dar Es Salaam, being a multi-cultural city is home to a large Indian community. Their influence can be felt in the local cuisine as well. This vegetarian restaurant located in the colonial quarter of Kisuatu is the perfect place that somebody should visit for an exotic dining experience. Clever usage of spices like cardamom, tamarind, and cloves results in taste combinations which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Some of the dishes which you can try out are meals like Thali, Dosa, Panipuri and Pav Bhaji. 

Revhovot Ethiopian Restaurant: Owned and operated by an Ethiopian/ Tanzanian couple, you will be able to savour an amazing combination of fusion African food in this restaurant. Whether you are looking for vegetarian food or meat delicacies, you will surely be spoilt for choice in this classy outlet. The diligent and intelligent efforts of the management combined with the attentive staff combine to give all patrons an unforgettable dining experience. Some of the dishes which you should try out in the restaurant are Chicken Mishkaki, Hotgajjar Chicken and Firigisi.

The Waterfront Sunset Restaurant: Boasting a terrace location right by the sea, and a diverse menu consisting of a variety of typical African foods this restaurant must be on the cards for all those coming to Dar Es Salaam. Some of the unique selling points of the outlet are that it contains Delivery, takeout and Outdoor seating options. With live music being played here three times a week, it is a popular destination for everybody looking to spend an enjoyable evening with their buddies. Whether you wish to grab a quick snack or have an elaborate multi-course meal, all your specific requirements will surely be fulfilled here. 

With new cafes, motels and bars opening every week, you''re guaranteed to have a great gastronomical trip in this booming city. The restaurants here feature a range of cuisines that combine modern and traditional components, and they are surely the place for a foodie like yourself.

HOTELS STAY IN DAR ES SALAAM

Dar es Salaam, sometimes referred to as the "Haven of Peace" in Swahili, lives up to its moniker by providing a pleasing fusion of historical significance, cultural diversity, and breathtaking natural scenery. Tanzania is the city where exploration into the country’s interior begins. Exceedingly popular with tourists coming to East Africa, some of the places where you can come and put up are:-

Giraffe Beach Hotel (5 Star)

Address: Jangwani Street Plot 169 Jangwani Beach, Dar es Salaam 9712 Tanzania

Situated by the shores of the Indian Ocean, this hotel is ideal for tourists who might be coming to enjoy the pristine and unspoilt attractions of Dar Es Salaam. Containing special features like wedding venues, corporate and teambuilding facilities and a pool deck this is the best hotel where one should decide to come and put up. Over the years innumerable visitors have come here and had a great time.

Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salaam New Africa (5 Star)

Address: Azikiwe Street Sokoine Drive Mchafukoge, Dar es Salaam 10000 Tanzania

The fact you will be able to relax in a carefree manner on the white sand while enjoying the refreshing cocktails and savouring mouth-watering delicacies is an additional reason for its popularity. The languages spoken in the hotel are English, French, Arabic and Swahili, so you will not have any difficulty with regards to communicating with the hotel staff. Additional draws are ocean-view rooms, pool views and non-smoking and family rooms.

Rombo Greenview Hotel (5 Star)

Address: Shekilango Road, Dar es Salaam Tanzania

Offering a convenient location near the airport, affordability, comfort, convenience, and excellent amenities, this place is ideal for visitors on a tight budget who like to travel in elegance. This is probably the primary cause of the large number of tourists who have chosen to arrive and stay here throughout their visit. One of the best places to come and put up while exploring Dar Es Salaam. 

Golden Tulip Dar City Center (4 Star)

Address: Jamhuri Street, Dar es Salaam Tanzania

With exceptional comfort and services offered provided by professional, helpful and courteous staff, this resort has been regularly given the title of one of the best in Dar Es Salaam. The languages spoken in the restaurant are Arabic, English, French and Swahili. As a result travellers from all corners of the globe will feel welcome here.

Harbour View Suites (4 Star)

Address: Samora Avenue PO Box 9163, Dar es Salaam 9163 Tanzania

A four-star hotel which is located right in the centre of Dar Es Salaam city, this is ideal for both business travellers and those visiting the city on holiday. Overlooking both the harbour and the Indian Ocean, all patrons will be able to enjoy an award-winning multi-cuisine dining experience to cherish.

Hotel Slipway (4 Star)

Address: Slipway Road Msasani Bay, Dar es Salaam Tanzania

Located in the affluent Msasani Peninsula locality, this hotel on the Indian Ocean provides all patrons with a wide variety of luxurious facilities such as a minibar and balcony with beautiful views of the city or sea. Frequent excursions are arranged from the hotel to various locations within the city. Newcomers to the city will particularly benefit from services.

Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard (3 Star)

Address: Seaview Ocean Road, Dar Es Salaam 10000 Tanzania

A wonderful place, containing a welcoming ambience with staff ready to go out of their way to make you feel welcome here. With well-kept rooms and tasty food you will surely get the feeling of a home away in this hotel. Surely the hotel where back packers and middle class travellers should come and put up.

Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant (3 Star)

Address: Tuari Road Kawe Beach, Dar Es Salaam 36110 Tanzania

A well-trained and motivated staff and homely décor ensures that all guests will be feeling at home in this amazing rest house. The attached restaurant ensures that everybody will be able to taste mouth-watering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The icing on the cake is that all this comes at extremely affordable rates. 

Whether you wish to stay in luxury befitting royalty or in a humble manner, Dar Es Salaam has something for everybody. No matter what your budget might be, you will surely be able to find suitable accommodation in this beautiful city.