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.

What's happening

Events & festivals

February (annual)

Sauti za Busara (regional draw)

East Africa's celebrated Swahili music festival is held in nearby Zanzibar, drawing Dar audiences across the ferry.

7 July (annual)

Saba Saba (Trade Fair)

The Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair fills the Mwalimu Nyerere grounds with exhibitors from across Africa and beyond.

8 August (annual)

Nane Nane (Farmers' Day)

A national agricultural holiday marked with fairs, exhibitions and public celebrations.

Varies (Islamic calendar)

Eid al-Fitr

The end of Ramadan is a major festival on the Muslim-majority coast, with feasting, new clothes and family gatherings.

9 December (annual)

Uhuru (Independence Day)

National independence celebrations with parades and public events across the city.