Dar Es Salaam is Tanzania's most populous city and an important gateway to East Africa. It's a bustling and colorful city full of contradictions—a mix of old and new, wealthy and poor, tradition and progress. This great city, situated on the Indian Ocean coastline, has something for everyone: scenic beaches, historical sites, religious landmarks, and beautiful natural areas nearby that offer great views, beaches, and a variety of aquatic activities. Come and discover what makes Dar Es Salaam one of Africa's most exciting destinations.
Getting to Know Dar Es Salaam
Dar Es Salaam is the largest city located in northeastern Tanzania and is the country's administrative and economic capital. According to an estimate from 2019, this major metropolis is home to around 4.4 million people. It is located in the UTC+3 time zone, meaning it is three hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). Major languages spoken in Dar Es Salaam are Swahili and English, though there are several other languages spoken by the local population. Since Tanzania is a part of the East African Community, its currency is the Tanzanian shilling.
Climate and Weather
Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and one of the largest in East Africa. The climate in Dar es Salaam is tropical wet and dry, also known as tropical savanna climate. The weather is usually warm and sunny. Temperatures are fairly consistent throughout the year, ranging between 25 and 33 degrees Celsius. The rainy season occurs between November and May, while the dry season is from June to October. During the rainy season, the city is often windy and humid, with the potential for flooding and heavy rain. The dry season is a bit cooler but is less humid, making it a great time to visit.
Touring Dar Es Salaam: Airport and Transportation
There is one international airport in Dar Es Salaam - the Julius Nyerere International Airport. From here, downtown can be reached via a taxi, which costs approximately $25. There are several currency exchanges and ATMs at the airport, so it is possible to change money there.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Dar Es Salaam
- Dar Es Salaam is home to diverse cultures and ethnicities, including Bantu and Nilotic-speaking tribes. The city has a long and rich history, with evidence of settlement dating back to 5th century AD
- Dar Es Salaam’s traditional culture is still evident in the architecture, crafts and even in the local cuisine. Food stalls serving Tanzanian street food such as grilled fish and ugali (maize porridge) are particularly popular among visitors
- The city is home to a vibrant music scene, with world-renowned artists such as Fatma Abdulla, Siwa and Zakia Ali performing regularly. It also hosts a number of annual festivals and cultural events, such as the annual Dar Es Salaam International Marathon