Dar-es-Salaam

Once a sleepy fishing village, Dar es Salaam has evolved into a lively waterfront metropolis with an eclectic urban culture and laidback vibe. A popular pre-safari destination, Tanzania’s commercial hub is an exciting blend of modern bustle and old-world charm where sleek skyscrapers coexist with 20th-century art deco buildings. Experience it all: request a private jet charter quote from Aerocruise Air Charters.

The best time to visit Dar es Salaam is during dry season, from June to October. Unwind on one of the city’s sandy beaches, enjoying live music with the locals at Coco Beach in affluent Oyster Bay or lazing on quieter stretches of sand on the nearby Bongoyo and Mbudya Islands, great spots for snorkelling and diving. Explore the beautiful surrounding natural landscapes with a hike through Pugu Hills Forest Reserve or a boat trip to exotic Zanzibar.

Stroll around the pretty waterfront and bustling city centre while admiring historic landmarks such as the gothic St Joseph’s Cathedral, tranquil botanical gardens and imposing State House. Uncover Tanzania’s intriguing past at the National Museum & House of Culture, which showcases ancient fossils and local tribal artefacts, and peruse local contemporary artwork at the gritty Nafasi Art Space.

Shop for local souvenirs at vibrant Kariakoo Market, where brightly-coloured stalls sell handmade textiles, jewellery and paintings. Visit the Wonder Workshop, where disabled artisans create beautiful crafts from recycled materials, and browse shops selling tanzanite, Tanzania’s rare blue gemstone. Upmarket shopping centres include Sea Cliff Village and the waterfront Slipway.

From fragrant street food to hotel fine-dining, visitors won’t go hungry in Dar es Salaam. The city’s vivid culinary scene reflects its cultural diversity – tuck into spicy Ethiopian curries served on sourdough flatbreads at Addis in Dar, savour gourmet Asian cuisine including fresh sushi at the Hyatt’s Oriental, and enjoy the city’s best grilled chicken at street food hotspot Mamboz Corner BBQ. Chef’s Pride serves authentic Tanzanian specialties such as maize porridge and sweet potato leaves.

Dar es Salaam is home to a range of excellent five-star hotels. Seaside boutique The Oyster Bay boasts just eight spacious suites overlooking the ocean, while luxury brand offerings include the Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, a waterfront retreat with pampering spa, and award-winning Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel, an elegant escape set in tropical gardens.

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