How do I get from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar?

Fast catamaran ferries run several times daily from the Kivukoni ferry terminal to Stone Town, taking about two hours; buy tickets in advance from the official operators and keep your passport handy as it is treated as a domestic sea crossing.

Is Dar es Salaam safe for visitors?

Dar is generally welcoming, but as in any large city stay alert to petty theft, avoid displaying valuables, use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps at night, and take extra care in crowded markets such as Kariakoo.

Where does the SGR train leave from?

The modern Standard Gauge Railway departs from the dedicated Dar es Salaam SGR terminus (separate from the old central station), running inland toward Morogoro and Dodoma; check your ticket for the correct station.

What is the best area to stay in Dar?

The Msasani peninsula and Oyster Bay (Kinondoni) offer beaches, restaurants and boutique hotels, while the city centre near Kivukoni is handy for the ferry, business district and historic sights.

Destination guide

Dar es Salaam

Tanzania's sun-soaked port city, where Swahili trade, Indian Ocean beaches and the gateway to Zanzibar meet.

If something goes wrong

Emergency & health

Police

112

National emergency line

Ambulance / Fire

114

Also try 115

Your guide

Founder-vetted

Every guide knows the nearest help.

Hospitals & clinics

Muhimbili National Hospital

Hospital

Upanga / city centre

the country's largest public referral and teaching hospital

View details & directions

Aga Khan Hospital

Hospital

Upanga

leading private hospital with 24-hour emergency care

View details & directions

Regency Medical Centre

Clinic

Alykhan Road

private hospital and clinic for consultations and minor emergencies

View details & directions

Pharmacies (city centre & Msasani)

Pharmacy

citywide

numerous well-stocked pharmacies, some open late

View details & directions

Police

Central Police Station, Sokoine Drive

national emergency line 112

View details & directions

Insurance accepted for emergencies

Dar es Salaam has Tanzania's best medical facilities, including Muhimbili National Hospital and private hospitals such as Aga Khan, so most conditions can be treated in the city; travellers should still carry comprehensive travel-medical insurance, and cover that includes emergency evacuation is wise if continuing to remote parks or islands. Dial 112 for emergencies and 114/115 for an ambulance.

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