Discover 13 Attractions in Dar El Salam, Tanzania

Dar Al Salam

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Ahmed SamirAhmed Samir

The United Republic of Tanzania, known as Tanzania, is located in eastern Africa and is a famous country on the continent. Many beautiful countries, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, and Kenya, surround it. The country is famous for many magnificent places, including the highest mountain peak, the deepest lake in the world, the Zanzibar archipelago, and many islands called the Spice Islands.

There are many types of wild and marine life that you can watch, whether on safari or while snorkelling and diving, in addition to the presence of many places that have become world heritage landmarks, according to UNESCO.  

Today we will talk about one of the most important cities in Tanzania, which is Dar El Salam. We will highlight its important features, the best time to visit it and many other things.

Dar El Salam

History of Dar El Salam

Dar El Salam was not an independent city but was part of the land of the Zanj in East Africa and was known as Mzizima. It was a commercial meeting place between East Africa, China, India, and the Arabian Peninsula, which led to the development of the city.

The Arabic language spread throughout the city as a result of the commercial movements between the Arabian Peninsula and Dar al-Salam, so Arab merchants taught its inhabitants the Arabic language. Over time, Arabic merged with the dominant language there, Bantu, which led to the emergence of a new language known as the Swahili language. The Arab presence in Dar El Salam also contributed to the spread of the Islamic religion among its inhabitants.

The Portuguese occupied Dar El Salam and continued their occupation until the ruler of Oman, Said bin Sultan, was able to restore it in 1790. The general conditions there remained stable until 1964, when the revolution broke out in Zanzibar, which led to Dar El Salam joining the Republic of Tanzania officially.

The Best Time to Visit Dar El Salam

The perfect time to visit Dar El Salam is from July to March when the weather is beautiful, to be able to have a great tour of the city, and much more. Also, you can visit the picturesque southern and western coasts to spend a quiet, relaxing vacation on its beaches between July and October.

More Information About Dar El Salam

  • Dar El Salam is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with a rate of 5.6%.
  • Its buildings reflect the city’s colonial past and display a rich mix of architectural styles.
  • It is believed that by 2100 the city’s population will reach 76 million, making it the third-largest city in the world.
  • Football is the number one sport in the city that is home to the second-largest stadium in central Africa.

Places to Visit in Dar El Salam

Dar el Salam

Dar El Salam is a charming city with lovely nature and many picturesque islands and beaches. A city is an excellent place for beach lovers where you can enjoy its calm atmosphere, charming white sand beaches, golden sunshine, and charming turquoise waters away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Millions of tourists worldwide go on a trip to Dar El Salam due to its location and eclectic vibe. The city also displays a mixture of Swahili, German, Asian, and British influences represented by the architecture. It formed a wide variety of tourist attractions, including the Lutheran Church and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, among the most prominent structures on the waterfront.

Joseph Cathedral

Dar el Salam

St. Joseph Cathedral was built by the Germans between 1897 and 1902 in Gothic style and overlooks the waterfront. It is characterised by its internal tapering ceiling, stained glass, and windows, containing many original German inscriptions. In addition, the Cathedral has a group of exquisite pieces of art, including a sculpture above the main altar.

The National Museum and the House of Culture

The National Museum and the House of Culture are a memorial to King George V, taking the visitor on a journey through the history of Tanzania. It officially opened in 1940.

The museum displays important fossils of some of the oldest human ancestors discovered during excavations. There you can learn more about the heritage of the tribes of Tanzania and the colonial periods. Also, you will see exhibits that include traditional crafts, jewellery, and musical instruments. 

Village Museum

Village Museum is about six miles north of the city centre. It displays the traditional dwellings of some of the 120 ethnic groups in Tanzania. There you can enjoy wandering through replicas of tribal homes spread across 15 acres and watching local artisans show off their skills in painting, weaving, and traditional carvings. The museum hosts famous stars and performs tribal dances and other cultural activities.

Dar El Salam Zoo

Dar El Salam Zoo is a nature and wildlife sanctuary which is full of multiple species. It provides the opportunity for families to enjoy, as there is a large swimming pool and a children’s entertainment area. The park includes many rare animals, such as senoritas, monkeys, crocodiles, and birds.

Botanical Garden

Dar El Salam Botanical Gardens is an important attraction in the city; it was established in 1893 by Professor Shtulman, the first Director of Agriculture. It is an oasis of greenery in the Kivukoni region of Dar El Salam.

While on your tour of the garden, you can see the rare and original “Coco de Mer” tree. You will enjoy a charming and wondrous mixture of local and western plants, including purple bougainvillaea, blue jacaranda, scarlet flame, and palm trees.

Mbudya Island 

The beautiful Mbudya Island in the Dar El Salam Marine Reserve is where you can go away from the hustle and bustle of the city and have a quiet time. Sun seekers come here to bask on the island’s white sand beaches and enjoy snorkelling and swimming in the beautiful turquoise waters.

Thatched huts are available for rent on the beach, and locals sell freshly grilled seafood and cold drinks. Mbudya Island is an uninhabited island north of Dar Al Salaam. If you are looking for tranquillity during the tourism holiday in Dar El Salam, we advise you to visit it.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park

If you are an adventure lover, this is the place for you. Udzungwa Mountains National Park has stunning views and friendly local guides to lead the way. The park is located five hours north of Dar El Salam. There you can practise hiking and explore the beautiful Tanzanian wild nature. Also, you can take memorial photos amidst the scenic hills.

Saadani National Park

Saadani Park is located along the Indian Ocean, with an area of about 1062 km2. It is the only coastal wild nature reserve in mainland Tanzania. There are mangrove swamps and forests around. It is also the home of green turtles and many wild animals, such as elephants, buffaloes, and the Masai giraffe.

Coco Beach

Coco Beach’s lively atmosphere offers the perfect entertainment to enjoy the surroundings. The beach is the most popular place most locals think of when it comes to relaxing. It is crowded during public holidays. The beach includes a wide range of restaurants and food stalls.

Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay is located about six kilometres north of the city on the Massaani Peninsula. It is considered a great place to visit in Dar El Salam. Visitors come here to picnic on Coco Beach, sample street food, and listen to live music. It is also a suitable place for shopping lovers. You can head to the Oyster Bay Shopping Centre, where you will find farmers’ markets, clothing stores, art galleries, and many shops and boutiques.

Mikadi Beach

Mikadi Beach is named after the Mikadi tree that grows along the coast of Tanzania. It is a perfect destination for spending the weekend with locals and tourists, where you can find exciting activities such as snorkelling. The beach has a beautiful swimming pool, restaurant, and food stalls.

Bongoyo Island

It is located off the Bongoyo Peninsula, about four miles north of the city. Hikers can relax under the shades of straw umbrellas on a beach of white sand and clear waters in a magical atmosphere among birds, jellyfish, and colourful fish.

There are natural parks with lush trees. On the beach, you will find a snack bar, cold drinks, and freshly grilled seafood in the open air. It is a beautiful place where scenic and charming landscapes will attract you in tranquillity, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Fun City Kigamboni

Fun City Kigamboni Park is an enjoyable place in Dar El Salam. It consists of two sections, a theme park and a water park offering 30 different rides, from roller coasters to caterpillar rides. It is one place that receives trips from families, schools, gatherings, and companies, for a fun and exciting day for the whole family.

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