Dar es Salaam

Dar for short, the fast growing city of nearly 5 million souls is a busy, energetic metropolis. Despite the chaos, it is also a surprisingly laid back and peaceful place that sometimes feels like a very large village. It's city of contrasts, between new high rise office buildings and low-lying slums, celebrities and migrants hustling for a better living. The single day tour offers a snapshot of some of its key attractions, but we can also organize trips to take you deeper into the neighbourhoods to understand what life is really like for the average family.

Tour Itinerary

Mzizima Fish Market

Start the day off in the heart of Dar es Salaam at the Mzizima Fish Market is a bustling commercial hub. Fishermen in wooden dhow boats bring in their daily catch, selling to restaurants and individuals. From tiny sardines, to huge kingfish, to stingray and octopus and squid, to shrimps of all sizes, anything that is caught in the water is up for sale. Watch the non-stop fish auctions where a crowd of mostly woman bid on the catch.

Makumbusho / Village Museum

We will grab a taxi and head over to the Village Museum in Makumbusho. The complex showcases the indigenous culture and architecture of Tanzania ethnic groups. The Museum represents Tanzanian rural life as it appeared until very recently. Traditional dances by a rotating series of ethnic groups are performed throughout the day.

Neighbourhood Walk

From Makumbusho we will set out on a walking tour of some nearby neighbourhoods. Our walk will take about an hour and your guide will describe what it is like to live and work in Dar. Grab some snacks along the way and check out the various stores and street vendors.

Kigamboni Beach

For the last destination, we will take a taxi to the Kigamboni Ferry and cross the bay. From there, it's a short trip to the beach area where several hotels and restaurants are located. Despite being so close to central Dar, the beachside here feels surprisingly tranquil and quiet. We will relax here for dinner and drinks, before heading back to drop you off at your hotel.

Trip Cost - $85

As part of our planning process, we help customize the sample trip itinerary to suit your respective interests and needs.

Mkalimu's trip cost estimates are inclusive of accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, and guiding services. They do not include food costs and gratuities. We price our trips based on the use of public transport or private taxis, and modest but well-maintained hotels with AC rooms and mosquito nets. We are more than happy to quote prices on request for trip options that involve higher end accommodation and private vehicles.