Travel Guide for
Dar es Salaam

Q: What is the best time to visit Dar es Salaam?

The best time to visit Dar es Salaam is during the dry season, from June to October. The weather is sunny and less humid, making it ideal for exploring the city and nearby beaches.

Q: How can I get around Dar es Salaam affordably?

The most affordable way to get around is by using dala dalas (local minibuses) or bodabodas (motorcycle taxis). For a safer and convenient experience, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber.

Q: Which local foods should I try in Dar es Salaam?

Try street foods like mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), urojo (Zanzibar mix soup), and chipsi mayai (French fries omelette). Local seafood is fresh and widely available at the fish market.

Q: Where can I exchange money safely in Dar es Salaam?

It's safest to exchange money at authorized forex bureaus or established banks in the city center or major malls. Avoid changing money on the street for better security and fair rates.

Q: Is it safe to walk around Dar es Salaam at night?

While some areas like Oyster Bay and Masaki are relatively safe, it's recommended to use taxis or ride-hailing apps at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Tanzania

Tropical, hot and humid, rainy seasons

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Introduction Key Facts Map Logistics Weather Accommodation Itinerary Related Experiences Attractions FAQ Related Guides

Introduction

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city, sits along the Indian Ocean, blending vibrant urban life with stunning coastal scenery. Founded in the 19th century, the city has grown into a lively center, rich with Swahili culture, colonial history, markets, and friendly energy.

In mid-November, expect warm, humid weather with occasional showers, perfect for exploring museums, sampling fresh seafood, or strolling along beaches like Coco Beach. For solo travelers on an average budget, Dar offers an exciting mix of affordable local eateries, bustling artisan markets, and lively nightlife, ensuring a memorable and genuine Tanzanian experience.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleSolo

Dates10-17 November 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomynightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and toursvolunteering

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Key Facts

Location

Coastal Region, Tanzania

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Religion

Christianity, Islam

Population

7,300,000

Language

Swahili, English

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type D & G plugs

Time zone

UTCEAT (UTC+3)

Country code

+255

Internet access

Widely available; 4G mobile, fiber, cybercafes

Climate

Tropical, hot and humid, rainy seasons

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Language:

Swahili

hello
hujambo (hoo-jam-bo)
goodbye
kwaheri (kwa-heh-ree)
yes
ndiyo (n-dee-yo)
no
hapana (ha-pa-na)
how much
hii ni bei gani? (hee nee bay gah-nee)
please
tafadhali (ta-fa-dha-li)
thank you
asante (ah-san-teh)
excuse me
samahani (sa-ma-ha-ni)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Dar es Salaam is easiest by air; Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) receives direct and connecting flights from major cities in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Once in Tanzania, trains and long-distance buses connect Dar to cities like Arusha, Dodoma, and Mbeya, making overland travel affordable for solo travelers.

Ferries from Zanzibar run multiple times daily and are a scenic, budget-friendly option with a 2-hour crossing. Taxis, dala-dalas (shared minibuses), and ride-hailing apps help you get around the city. November generally marks the start of the short rainy season, but transport services operate normally—just allow extra time for occasional delays due to rain.

Weather

Dar es Salaam has a tropical climate, staying warm and humid year-round. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with coastal breezes providing occasional relief. Rainy seasons occur from March to May (long rains) and October to December (short rains), while June to September is drier and comfortable.

Between November 10 and November 17, expect high humidity and occasional showers, as this period falls within the short rains. Rain can be heavy but is usually brief, with sunny intervals to enjoy outdoor activities. Extreme weather like cyclones or severe flooding is rare, so travel plans are seldom disrupted.

Food & Drink

Dar es Salaam’s cuisine blends Swahili, Indian, and Arabic influences. Sample street food like mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), chapati, and fresh seafood or try local favorites such as ugali and coconut curries. Enjoy fresh sugarcane juice or tangawizi (ginger beer) with your meal for a true local experience.

Great places for solo travelers on an average budget include Samaki Samaki for seafood, Mamboz Corner BBQ for grilled treats, and The Slow Leopard for delicious burgers and social vibes. For coffee, head to Épi d’Or or Café Aroma, and for evening drinks, try High Spirit Lounge Bar for stunning city views.

Tipping around 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most places. Always check opening hours, as some spots close during religious holidays.

Ugali

Ugali is a staple food in Tanzania, made from maize flour or cassava flour cooked with water to...

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma is a popular grilled meat dish in Tanzania, featuring marinated chunks of meat (often goat or...

Mishkaki

Mishkaki consists of skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat (commonly beef or chicken), typically seasoned with a...

Mchuzi wa Samaki

Mchuzi wa Samaki is a traditional Tanzanian fish curry, featuring a flavorful tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices....

Pilau

Pilau is a fragrant and aromatic rice dish cooked with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and...

Accommodation

For solo travelers on an average budget, the city center, Oyster Bay, and Msasani Peninsula are great neighborhoods, offering convenient access to attractions and vibrant nightlife. Popular mid-range hotels include Sea Cliff Hotel, Ramada Encore, and Hyatt Regency; all provide comfort, security, and excellent amenities for solo guests.

Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia are reliable websites for hotel reservations in Dar es Salaam. While hostels exist, hotels offer more privacy and better services for solo stays. November falls in the short rainy season, so book early for the best rates and check for cancellation policies in case of weather-related changes to your plans.

Itinerary

Day 1

November 11 · Tuesday

Get acquainted with Dar es Salaam’s vibrant cityscape, experiencing its welcoming spirit and diverse neighborhoods as you settle in for your adventures ahead.

Stroll Through Kariakoo Market

Dive into Dar es Salaam’s daily life by wandering Kariakoo Market, the city’s bustling shopping hub. Explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and textiles, and soak up the energy as you interact with friendly Tanzanian vendors.

Kariakoo Market, Swahili St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Coffee Break at Akemi Revolving Restaurant

Relax and orient yourself over a coffee at the Akemi Revolving Restaurant, which offers a unique 360-degree panoramic view of Dar’s skyline. It’s a perfect spot to get your bearings and begin city exploration.

Akemi Revolving Restaurant, Ohio St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Explore the Mwenge Woodcarvers Market

Marvel at Tanzanian artistry at the Mwenge Woodcarvers Market. Browse handcrafted wooden sculptures and have a chat with artisans about their techniques—a great introduction to local creativity and a chance to buy souvenirs.

Mwenge Woodcarvers Market, Sam Nujoma Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Private Insightful City Tour of Dar es Salaam

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Experience Dar es Salaam in just 2 hours with a local guide who brings the city to life through stories of history, culture, and daily life. This compact yet immersive walking and driving tour takes you from the vibrant Kariakoo Market and historic St. Joseph’s Cathedral to the bustling Kivukoni Fish Market, Askari Monument, and colonial landmarks like the Old Boma. Learn about Tanzania’s politics, economy, and spiritual life—all from a local’s perspective. Perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a rich cultural experience. We offer options that include Pickups, Airport transfer and spacious luggage storage, No Need to Worry About Bags During the Tour: Your luggage will be securely stored

4.9 (11 reviews)

From $57 USD

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Day 2

November 12 · Wednesday

Immerse yourself in the city’s thriving creative scene, discovering galleries, artisans, and the traditions that shape Dar es Salaam’s unique cultural identity.

National Museum and House of Culture Visit

Explore Tanzania's heritage at the National Museum and House of Culture, where you'll find unique artifacts, traditional art, music exhibits, and insights into the country’s fascinating history and creative evolution. Plan at least 2 hours for a thorough visit and don’t miss the contemporary art displays.

National Museum and House of Culture, Shaaban Robert St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Appreciate Contemporary Art at Nafasi Art Space

Delve into Dar’s contemporary creative pulse at Nafasi Art Space, a vibrant collective where you can meet local artists, view innovative installations, and possibly catch a workshop or open studio. Great for those seeking modern Tanzanian expression.

Nafasi Art Space, Eyasi Rd, Mikocheni B, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Meet Local Designers at Nyumba ya Sanaa

Discover traditional and modern Tanzanian arts at Nyumba ya Sanaa, a cultural center supporting local artisans. Browse jewelry, textiles, and paintings, and interact with the resident craftspeople who are happy to share their techniques and stories.

Nyumba ya Sanaa, Ohio St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar Es Salaam City Tour (Full Day With Private Guide And Car)

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Dar es salaam means haven/house of peace. Discover the rich history and culture of this beautiful city, enjoy the Tanzanian culture and lifestyle. Visit the busy Fish Market, famous Azania church, the Kariakoo market, the oldest building in Dar es salaam, famous University, Mwenge wood carvers, and the beach. This is Private Full day city tour which is perfect for travelers short on time who only have a day or two in Dar. •Explore Dar es salaam during a full day city tour •A guide teaches you about the culture and history of the city •Lunch, bottled water and all fees are included •A private group gives you a more wonderful intimate experience •Travelers with limited time can explore highlights in one day

4.9 (40 reviews)

From $165 USD

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Day 3

November 13 · Thursday

Delight in Dar es Salaam’s culinary richness, sampling local flavors and exploring neighborhoods renowned for their authentic Swahili dishes and food culture.

Seafood Feast at Kivukoni Fish Market

Experience authentic flavors by joining the locals for an early morning seafood feast at the bustling Kivukoni Fish Market. Watch fishermen bring in the day’s catch, sample grilled fish and octopus, and soak up the market’s vibrant maritime atmosphere.

Kivukoni Fish Market, Kivukoni Front, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Swahili Cooking Class in Oysterbay

Take a hands-on Swahili cooking class in Oysterbay, where a local chef guides you through making classic dishes like pilau and coconut curry. Gain culinary skills and enjoy the results as a hearty lunch in a friendly group setting.

Oysterbay, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dine at The Slipway’s Waterfront Restaurants

Enjoy evening dining at The Slipway, a lively waterfront complex with renowned restaurants offering fresh seafood, Swahili specialties, and Indian-inspired dishes. Take in stunning harbor views while savoring your meal.

The Slipway, Slipway Rd, Msasani Peninsula, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The Best/Top Rated Cultural City Tour in Dar es Salaam

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Free Cancellation

*** Please Note some stops may be changed or eliminated depending on weather, traffic and time of tour *** For groups of 4 or more people, please contact us directly We offer the best and top rated city tour in Dar es Salaam! Our tour is a mix of facts (history), local experiences (traditions) and fun (culture). When you book Duteni Tours you are directly contributing to the local economy and local Tanzanians. We are locally owned and family operated and all our staff are Tanzanians. We specialize in immersive, local Tanzanian experiences. Come see, learn, experience, taste and explore the business capital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania! Let Duteni Tours take you on our most popular and unforgettable local experiences. Duteni Tours pride is providing elite customer service and unique interactive African experiences for all our guests to enjoy. We also offer amazing African safaris in Nyerere National Park, Mikumi National Park, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire

5.0 (60 reviews)

From $90 USD

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Day 4

November 14 · Friday

Journey through the city’s past and its landmarks, uncovering important sites and the historical narratives that have shaped Tanzania’s largest metropolis.

Visit Askari Monument

Explore the iconic Askari Monument, a tribute to African soldiers who served in World War I. Learn about Tanzania's colonial-era history and snap memorable photos at this city landmark in the heart of Dar es Salaam.

Askari Monument, Samora Ave, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Tour St. Joseph’s Cathedral

Step into the history and architecture of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, built by German missionaries in the late 19th century. Admire its stained glass windows and tranquil atmosphere, right near the city center.

St. Joseph's Cathedral, Sokoine Dr, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Explore the Old Boma

Walk through the Old Boma, one of Dar’s oldest buildings. Once used by German colonial administrators, this landmark now houses cultural exhibits that provide a glimpse into the city’s diverse heritage.

Old Boma, Sokoine Dr, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Private Insightful City Tour of Dar es Salaam

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

4.9 (11 reviews)

From $57 USD

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Day 5

November 15 · Saturday

Engage with the city’s lively festival atmosphere, attend local events, and connect with the community through meaningful volunteer experiences.

Join the Swahili Fashion Week (November Edition)

Attend Swahili Fashion Week, one of East Africa’s premier cultural events showcasing innovative designs and vibrant textiles from Tanzanian and regional designers. Enjoy runway shows, meet local creatives, and immerse yourself in the celebratory festival spirit.

Serena Hotel, Ohio St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Participate in a Beach Cleanup with Nipe Fagio

Connect with community members and help protect Dar’s coastline by volunteering for a beach cleanup organized by Nipe Fagio. Contribute to environmental conservation, meet locals who are passionate about sustainability, and enjoy the beauty of the Indian Ocean shoreline.

Coco Beach, Msasani Peninsula, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Tantalize Your Senses at the Food & Music Street Festival

Dive into a lively evening at a food and music street festival featuring local dishes and live Tanzanian bands. This is a great way to interact with residents and taste authentic flavors, while soaking up Dar’s dynamic festival energy.

Uhuru Street, Dar es Salaam City Centre, Tanzania

Sinda Island Day Trip with Snorkeling

INSTANT

• Duration: full day • Dhows excursion provides daily sailing trips to the nearby Sinda island • Colourful tropical fish and coral reefs providing excellent swimming and snorkelling conditions • Picnic lunch, non-alcoholic drinks • Snorkeling equipment

4.0 (7 reviews)

From $150 USD

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Day 6

November 16 · Sunday

Embrace the outdoors with seaside adventures, scenic excursions along the Tanzanian coast, and a chance to enjoy breathtaking natural settings.

Boat Trip to Mbudya Island

Enjoy a short boat ride from Dar es Salaam to Mbudya Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in turquoise waters, and savor freshly grilled seafood at a rustic beachside shack. Don’t forget sunscreen and cash for boat fare.

Mbudya Island, Off the coast of Kunduchi, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Kayaking along Kunduchi Coast

Experience the scenic coastline as you kayak past mangroves and fishing villages near Kunduchi. Rentals are easy to arrange, and the area offers calm stretches perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers—morning trips are recommended for cooler weather.

Kunduchi Beach, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Walking Safari in Pande Game Reserve

Step into the wild with a guided walking safari in the Pande Game Reserve. Spot native birds and monkeys among the coastal forest trails, all just a short drive from Dar city center. Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars for the best views.

Pande Game Reserve, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Mikumi national park full day tour from Dar es sallam

INSTANT

Welcome to the coastal city of Tanzania. Despite the beautiful beaches along the coastal line, you can still enjoy a full day day trip to Mikumi national park. This is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park, with a landscape of baobabs, black hardwood trees and grassy plains, and the most accessible from Dar es Salaam. With almost guaranteed year-round wildlife sightings, Mikumi makes an ideal safari destination for those without much time. Within its 3230 sq km – set between the Uluguru Mountains to the northeast, the Rubeho Mountains to the northwest and the Lumango Mountains to the southeast – Mikumi hosts buffaloes, wildebeest, giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras, leopards, crocodiles and endangered wild dogs, and the chances are high that you’ll see a respectable sampling of these within a short time of entering the park.

4.9 (9 reviews)

From $370 USD

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Day 7

November 17 · Monday

Experience the energy of Dar es Salaam’s nightlife, savor local entertainment, and unwind while reflecting on your week of memorable discoveries.

Sundowner at High Spirit Lounge Bar

Kick off your evening with cocktails and panoramic views at High Spirit Lounge Bar. Relax as day turns to night, making it an ideal spot to reflect on your journey while watching the city lights come alive.

High Spirit Lounge Bar, New Africa Hotel, Azikiwe St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Live Jazz at Level 8 Bar

Immerse yourself in sophisticated local entertainment with live jazz at Level 8 Bar. Enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a chic atmosphere atop the Hyatt Regency, perfect for soaking up Dar's cosmopolitan nightlife.

Level 8 Bar, Hyatt Regency, 24 Kivukoni Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Cultural Night at Alliance Française

Join a themed cultural night at Alliance Française, featuring Tanzanian music, dance, and visual arts. It’s a fun way to mingle with locals and expats while celebrating the city’s diverse creative spirit.

Alliance Française, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

MANYARA & TARANGIRE - 4 Days

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

The Tarangire National Park is located between the meadows of Masai Steppe to the southeast and the lakes of the Great Rift Valley to the north and west. Among the rolling area where the park lies, it occupies an area of 2,600 square kilometers. The perennial Tarangire River takes over the northern part of Tarangire. Through the cut ditches, the River flows upwards up to when it leaves the corner of the park, in the North West flowing into Lake Burungi. There are a number of wide swamps which dry into green plains during the dry season in the south.

5.0 (1 reviews)

From $1471 USD

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Experiences

animals

Culture Week in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$495/week

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teaching

English Teaching in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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volunteering

Environmental Conservation in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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volunteering

Maasai Tribal Immersion in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$430/week

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volunteering

Empowering Village Women in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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learning

Medical Experience in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$615/week

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Attractions

4.2 (17 reviews)

Dar es salaam Reality Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

You will experience the real life of locals and their difference compare to middle income peoples and higher income earners.

From $51 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)

Full Day Private Tour in Dar es Salaam City

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This isn’t just another sightseeing tour—it’s an intimate, guided journey through the true heart of Dar es Salaam, crafted with care and local insight. What sets our tour apart is the depth of experience: we don’t just show you the city, we help you experience it like a local. From bustling markets and coastal retreats to quiet historical landmarks, every stop is chosen for its authenticity and connection to the city’s past and present. Led by passionate local guides, we offer more than facts—we share stories, traditions, and hidden gems that only locals know. Plus, we prioritize comfort and ease, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy each experience without rushing. Whether you're discovering Dar's vibrant neighborhoods or relaxing by the Indian Ocean, this tour is about connection, understanding, and embracing the city's unique spirit.

From $90 USD

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5.0 (23 reviews)

Explore Dar es Salaam: Full-Day Private City Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Experience Dar es Salaam like never before with Envoyage Tanzania. Our city tours are guided by passionate, knowledgeable locals who bring the city's vibrant culture, history, and daily life to the forefront—perfect if you're exploring things to do in Dar es Salaam 2025 or wondering where to visit in Dar es Salaam. Each tour is fully customizable, tailored to your unique interests—whether you're exploring colonial-era architecture, enjoying local street food, or uncovering the rhythm of traditional markets. Planning a ferry ride from Dar to Zanzibar? We’ll help you seamlessly include it in your itinerary. Not sure about the best time to visit Dar es Salaam? We offer expert advice to make your trip smooth and unforgettable. From solo travelers to families, our tours are designed to deliver meaningful, immersive experiences that go beyond the surface—helping you see, feel, and connect with the real Dar es Salaam.

From $165 USD

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4.9 (24 reviews)

1. Day safaris to Mikumi by Train from dar es salaam

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Day 1 Our journey will start early in the morning from Dar es Salaam. Your driver will pick you up from the hotel or the airport if you arrive on a late-night flight. You will be driven to the SGR Train Station for your train to the Morogoro region, which will take approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival, our driver guide will pick you up and drive you to Mikumi National Park, which will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You will have a late morning game drive and an evening game drive. After the game drives, your driver will take you back to the train station in Morogoro for your return train to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, our driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel, or if you have a flight at that time, our driver will drop you off at the airport. You will have a picnic lunch during the day's activities. The main activity will be a game drive.

From $370 USD

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4.0 (1 reviews)

Dar es Salaam Tuk-Tuk Food Tour: Taste the City’s Flavors!

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Embark on a flavorful journey through the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam with our unique **Tuk-Tuk Food Tour**! Discover the heart of Tanzanian cuisine as you zip through the city in a traditional tuk-tuk, stopping at hidden gems, local eateries, and vibrant markets. Savor authentic dishes like Zanzibar mix, mishkaki, chapati, and more, while learning about the rich culinary traditions and culture of Dar es Salaam. Perfect for food lovers and adventurous travelers, this tour offers a delicious blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and mouthwatering bites. Come hungry and leave with a full belly and unforgettable memories!

From $120 USD

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4.5 (16 reviews)

Dar Es Salaam: Day Trip Safari to Mikumi National Park by Train

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Free Cancellation

Mikumi National Park provides great safari experience regardless of the time you have in Dar Es Salaam or Morogoro town. Tours are tailor made to suit your interest, budget and time. Trips are in small groups of up to 6 persons with private/and or family options are available too. In Mikumi expect to see wild animals such as Lions, Buffalos, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebras, Impalas, Warthogs, elephants, hippos and more than 300 bird species.

From $300 USD

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4.8 (21 reviews)

2 Days - Mikumi safari depart from Zanzibar or Dar es salaam

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Free Cancellation

Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park. It’s also the most accessible from Dar es Salaam. With almost guaranteed wildlife sightings, it makes an ideal safari destination for those without much time (Its a 4 hour drive or 1 hour flight from Dar es Salaam). It is situated less than 300 kilometres from Dar es Salaam, which makes it a very popular park due to its accessibility. The Mikumi flood plain dominates the park, where lion is commonly seen as are packs of wild dog, a rarity elsewhere in Africa. Leopard, Giraffe, elephant, zebra, buffalo, wildebeest, eland, crocodiles, monitor lizard and python are some of the many inhabitants of Mikumi.

From $620 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)

Dar es Salaam City Tour - Visit all attractive places

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Dar es Salaam (meaning 'place of peace') is the largest city and former capital city of Tanzania. On the Swahili coast, Dar es-Salaam is an important economic Centre and one of the fastest growing cities in the world.

From $117 USD

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FAQ

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