Size: 162.5 sq km (101.5 sq miles).
Location: Coastal Tanzania, Dar es Salaam Region.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (Dar) is the largest city in the country and is located on the Indian Ocean coast. Arabic meaning: "Abode of Peace", formerly Mzizima, it boasts a population estimated around 2,500,000 (2005 est.). Dar is also the Tanzania's richest city and a regionally important economic centre. Though Dar es Salaam lost its official status as capital city to Dodoma in the mid-1970s, it remains the centre of the permanent central government. Travel in Dar es Salaam consists of safaris to the southern circuit, beautiful beaches and secluded islands. It has one of the largest natural harbours in the world. The city itself is full of life with Dar es Salaam airport (DIA) being a convenient point from which to start a holiday to the southern circuit or to transfer from Dar es salaam to Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam.
Remnants of colonial presence, both German and British, can still be seen in the landmarks and architecture around the city. The National Museum, the Village Museum, and many colourful markets are well worth a visit by any Dar es Salaam ground transportation. Numerous historical landmarks, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the White Father’s Mission House, the Botanical Gardens, and the old State House make for interesting Dar es Salaam travel around the waterfront and city centre. Seven kilometres North of the city, to Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve offers good snorkelling and diving sites for those who want to explore the water.
How To Get There
Many airlines from Europe and the rest of the world fly to Dar es Salaam airport: KLM, Alliance Air, BA, Gulf Air, etc. Domestic flight transfer from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam are available daily.
What To Do
Take a guidedDar es Salaam travel tour - visit the National Museum, Nyumba ya Sanaa, Uhuru and the National Library. All will require some form of Dar es Salaam ground transportation including taxi or car hire. Activities such as island hopping, swimming, scuba diving and snorking are also available.
When To Go
Accessible year round. Dry season, June-August. Wet season November-March. December- February.
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