The central business district of Dar es Salaam, including the waterfront, Kariakoo market, and main hotel district.

About Dar es Salaam City Center

Dar es Salaam (\'Haven of Peace\' in Arabic) is East Africa\'s busiest port city, a sprawling, fast-growing metropolis of over 7 million people. The city center along Samora Avenue and Kivukoni Front features a mix of German and British colonial buildings, modern offices, and the lively Kariakoo Market—one of East Africa\'s largest trading markets. The National Museum houses important archaeological finds including fossils from Olduvai Gorge.

The Kivukoni waterfront fish market is a sensory spectacle every morning as dhows and fishing boats unload their catch. Nearby, the Askari Monument commemorates African soldiers of World War I. Dar\'s dining scene blends Swahili, Indian, and Arab influences—try mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), ugali with fish, and Zanzibari-influenced pilau rice. The city also serves as the jumping-off point for Zanzibar Island (1.5-hour ferry from the central port) and safaris to Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi, and Ruaha.

Nearby Landmarks

National Museum Kariakoo Market Askari Monument Kivukoni Fish Market Azania Front Lutheran Church

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $15-25
Time 30-60 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $8-15
Time 30-60 min

Terminal exits, use app to set pickup

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Take a taxi from Julius Nyerere Airport to the city center (TZS 40,000–60,000, 30–60 min).
2. Use the Julius Nyerere Expressway for the fastest route.
3. Uber/Bolt from the airport: approximately TZS 30,000–50,000.
4. UDART public buses run from near the airport to Kariakoo area (TZS 650) but are very crowded.
5. Many hotels offer airport transfer service—confirm pricing in advance.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $15-25 30-60 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $8-15 30-60 min Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis are available at the airport 24/7. Negotiate fares before departure—typical fare to the city center is TZS 40,000–60,000 (USD 15–25). Uber works in Dar but availability drops after 10:00 PM. Bolt (ride-hailing) is also operational. The city center quiets down after 10:00 PM on weekdays. Bajaji (three-wheelers) operate in some areas but are not recommended from the airport at night.

Luggage Tips

Dar es Salaam's roads can be rough, so protect fragile items. Airport taxis are standard sedans with limited trunk space—for multiple large bags, request a larger vehicle. Downtown hotel parking can be tricky, so have your hotel send a vehicle if possible. Keep bags locked and out of sight in vehicles.

Accessibility

Dar es Salaam has limited wheelchair infrastructure. Sidewalks are often broken, unpaved, or occupied by vendors. Major hotels (Serena, Hyatt) are accessible. The National Museum has some accessible areas. The airport has wheelchair assistance available. Private vehicles are the only practical transport for mobility-impaired visitors.