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 there

Places to visit

Ferry Terminal

Dar es Salaam

Kivukoni Ferry Terminal

The waterfront hub for fast ferries to Zanzibar and the historic Kigamboni crossing over the harbour mouth.

Museum

Dar es Salaam

National Museum & House of Culture

Home to the country's collection of hominid fossil casts, Shirazi artefacts and exhibits on Tanzanian history and Swahili culture.

Museum

Dar es Salaam

Village Museum

An open-air museum on the Bagamoyo road displaying authentic traditional houses from across Tanzania, with weekend dance performances.

Building

Dar es Salaam

Kariakoo Market

The largest and liveliest market in Dar, a maze of stalls selling produce, spices, fabrics and household goods.

Beach

Dar es Salaam

Coco Beach (Oyster Bay)

A popular seafront promenade in the Msasani peninsula, busy at weekends with families, food vendors and sunset crowds.

Ferry Terminal

Dar es Salaam

Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve

A protected island just off Msasani offering clear water, snorkelling reefs, quiet beaches and grilled seafood.

Historical Landmark

Dar es Salaam

Askari Monument & city centre

The bronze memorial at the heart of colonial-era Dar, surrounded by historic administrative buildings and churches.

Cultural Center

Dar es Salaam

Mwenge Woodcarvers Market

A well-known craft market where Makonde carvers produce and sell ebony sculptures, masks and souvenirs.