[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Travel places in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
When it comes to economic might in the East African regional hierarchy, Dar es Salaam comes only second to the Kenyan capital Nairobi. One of East Africa’s busiest ports, and appropriately nicknamed “haven of peace,” Dar es Salaam is the administrative and commercial capital of Tanzania. This former sleepy village has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years and is now a bustling metropolis which is home to over 4 million people. What the city lacks in exciting tourist attractions, it compensates adequately with its pristine beaches and eclectic vibes thanks to its blend of Arabic, Swahili and Indian cultures.
The port of Dar es Salaam is strategically positioned as a central terminal between Kenya’s port of Mombasa and South Africa’s Durban. It is one of the most frequented sea routes in the Indian Ocean and for years witnessed the early arrivals of both missionaries and merchants who laid the foundations of the modern East African nations.
The city’s architecture is heavily borrowed from Asian, German, British and Swahili influences. The German’s early network of streets which stretches from the port and straddles the entire city like an octopus, have survived to this day. The Saint Joseph Cathedral and Lutheran Church are significant landmarks facing the waterfront, and the city has a notable museum. If you love water sports, you can escape the city’s stuffy hustle and bustle and take a trip to its scattered islands.
Southern beaches
One of the best beaches to be found in Dar es Salaam is the southern coastal beach. It goes by many names: Kigamboni, Kipepeo beach or merely south beach. And every name arguably stands for a unique beach experience. South Beach is where Dar residents escape to from the heat, the hustle and bustle of the city. The tropical azure waters of the Indian Ocean offer peace and relaxation.
Nafasi art space
The Nafasi art space aims to be the leading contemporary art studio in Dar es Salaam and has embarked on an ambitious program to cultivate local artists by scouting for talent, funding their work and even promoting them to achieve commercial success.
National museum and house of culture
The National Museum houses a replica of the world-famous “early man.” This is the fossil discovery of Zinjathropus from the Olduvai Gorge. Visit the museum and check out other curious and fascinating findings.
Islands close to Dar es Salaam
Sinda island is near Dar es Salaam. Another island is Mbudya. Bongoyo island is also closeby.
Mikumi national park
You can book a 3-day safari to Mikumi National park. This is Tanzania’s fourth largest and based in the southern circuit. It is famous for watching lions that climb trees and is bordered by Uluguru and Udzungwea chain of mountains. The safari covers approximately 300 kilometers. The game drives last until sunset with a break for lunch. If you plan to stay overnight, you can book a room at the Morio Motel in Mikumi Town. The following morning you can have an early morning game drive before heading back to Dar es Salaam.
To know more about Dar es Salaam, Tanzania have a look at our previous article: Destinations to visit in Tanzania
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