Hotels in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam Hotels

Where old Africa meets new, Dar es Salaam is a destination in its own right. It’s far more than just a city by the glittering blue waters of the Indian Ocean where holidaymakers stopover on their way to Zanzibar or safari. Its picturesque harbour, sandy beaches, and authentic food markets can compete with many a better-travelled destination, while culinary delights and great shopping can be had on nearly every street corner. Enjoy the city’s eclectic mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences, all the while knowing Zanzibar and other idyllic islands are just a short ferry ride away.

Things to see

On Barack Obama Drive, by the pier jutting out into the Indian Ocean, is the vibrant Kivukoni fish market, where you can watch the locals trade in an unforgettable array of seafood. Try some of the catch yourself, cooked in the traditional Tanzanian way. Round the corner is the innovative Makumbusho Village Museum, where it is said all Tanzania can be seen in a day. Demonstrations of traditional arts, crafts, and dance can be enjoyed among the houses constructed to reflect the fascinating history and heritage of the various groups who live throughout this idyllic country. If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle, take a short ferry ride to Mbudya Island. There you will be welcomed by fresh grilled fish and lobster, secluded sandy beaches, and clear blue waters in which to swim and snorkel. And if that isn’t enough, you can see lions and elephants patrol the plains by taking a day’s safari in nearby Mikumi National Park.

Hotels in Dar es Salaam

You won’t have any problems finding good hotels in Dar es Salaam. Being a world city, the recognised chains are readily available, and even mid-range hotels are able to provide harbour views, swimming pools, and impressive restaurants serving local and international cuisine. From mid-range up, air-con, satellite TV, and free WiFi comes as standard. There is a wide selection of hotels at the luxury end of the market too, offering everything from health clubs, saunas and spa experiences to their own shops, gardens and rooftop bars.

Where to stay

For the best base from which to explore, it’s worth choosing one of the many hotels in the Mchafukoge district at the heart of the city. This residential area is only a short walk from the main sites of interest and the Zanzibar ferry terminal, and boasts mosques, 19th century churches, and shining high rises. Alternatively, you can stay in one of the hotels clustered to the north, around Coco Beach, which is a popular spot for locals.

How to get to Dar es Salaam

Julius Nyerere International Airport is served internationally and is 10 kilometres from the centre of the city. Most hotels will provide an airport shuttle on request. One of the beauties of Dar es Salaam is that, if you base yourself centrally, many eye-catching destinations are reachable on foot. However, if you want to take the weight off your feet, there is no shortage of government-regulated taxis operating in the city, to be found on most streets. For the more daring, Indian-style auto rickshaws also operate.