Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, made up mainly of two islands: Unguja (often called Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, along with several smaller islets. It’s located in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa. The islands have a long history as a trading hub, especially for spices, ivory, and slaves, which gave Zanzibar the nickname “Spice Islands.”

Culturally, Zanzibar reflects a mix of African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Stone Town, the historic centre of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its narrow streets, carved wooden doors, and vibrant markets.

Today, Zanzibar is famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, making it a popular tourist destination while also maintaining its role in fishing and agriculture. I don’t like visiting touristy places which don’t have much more to offer than the beach, but after travelling for nearly 3 months in mainland Tanzania, I decided to give Zanzibar a chance.

The history of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s history stretches back thousands of years, shaped by its strategic position in the Indian Ocean. Long before modern states existed, sailors and merchants from Arabia, Persia, India, and the African mainland used the islands as a stopover for trade. Over time, Zanzibar became a melting pot where cultures blended through commerce, migration, and settlement.

By the Middle Ages, Arab traders had established settlements, and Islam became deeply rooted in local society. Persian influences also appeared, particularly through the Shirazi people, who are said to have migrated and integrated with the Swahili-speaking communities. Zanzibar’s language, Swahili, grew out of this fusion of African Bantu roots and Arabic influences.

In the 17th century, Zanzibar came under the control of Oman. This period marked the height of the islands’ role in the global spice and slave trade. Clove plantations were introduced, worked largely by enslaved labourers, and Zanzibar became one of the main hubs for the trafficking of people from East Africa to the Middle East and beyond.

By the 19th century, Zanzibar was powerful enough to be the seat of the Omani Sultanate. In fact, the sultan moved his court from Muscat to Zanzibar in 1840, solidifying its importance. This made Stone Town flourish as a cosmopolitan centre of wealth and diplomacy, though it also meant the slave trade expanded drastically.

European colonial powers soon turned their eyes to Zanzibar. The British, in particular, exerted increasing influence, pressuring the sultanate to abolish slavery and eventually establishing the islands as a protectorate in the late 19th century. Zanzibar briefly became infamous in 1896 when it was the site of the world’s shortest war, lasting less than an hour, after the British bombarded the palace to enforce their authority.

After decades under colonial control, Zanzibar gained independence in 1963, only to undergo a revolution the following year. The uprising overthrew the sultanate, leading to major social upheaval. Soon after, Zanzibar merged with mainland Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964, though it retained a semi-autonomous government with its own president and legislature.

How to get there?

By Air

International flights: Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct flights from some major cities in Europe, the Middle East (like Doha, Dubai, Muscat), and East Africa. Many travelers also connect through Nairobi (Kenya), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), or Doha (Qatar).

From mainland Tanzania: Frequent domestic flights connect Zanzibar with Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro. The flight from Dar es Salaam is only about 20–30 minutes.

By Ferry

From Dar es Salaam: High-speed ferries run daily between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City (Stone Town). The trip usually takes around 2–2.5 hours. Ferries are operated by companies like Azam Marine. Cars can also be transported on cargo ferries, though most visitors leave vehicles on the mainland.

The best time to visit

Peak Season (June – October)

Clear skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures make this the ideal time for beach holidays and outdoor activities. It also lines up well with safari season in mainland Tanzania, so many travelers combine the two.

Prices for hotels and tours are higher, and popular spots can feel busier.

Shoulder Season (November and March)

Fewer crowds, lower rates, and still plenty of sunshine, though you might get the occasional shower. November is especially good for diving since visibility is strong.

Short rains can happen, but they’re usually quick and not disruptive.

Rainy Seasons (April–May and November)

Lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Accommodation prices are at their lowest.

Heavy rainfall in April and May can make beach time and travel tricky. Some hotels close for maintenance during this period.

Stone Town and the Islands

Old Dispensary

A striking four-story building on the waterfront, decorated with carved balconies and stained glass. It was originally intended as a charitable medical facility and it still acts as a hospital. The staff is very nice and they let you have a look inside and check out old photographies.

Old Customs House

Once the hub of Zanzibar’s bustling trade, especially during the clove and spice boom. Its central location near the harbour makes it a key landmark in Stone Town’s commercial past.

House of Wonders

Built by Sultan Barghash in 1883, it was the first building on the island with electricity and an elevator. As of March 2025, it was undergoing restoration, but it remains one of the most iconic landmarks of Zanzibar.

Old Fort

Constructed in the 17th century by the Omanis to defend against the Portuguese, it now serves as a cultural centre, with an amphitheatre, craft shops, and festival events.

Princess Salme Museum

Dedicated to Princess Salme, who fled Zanzibar in the 19th century to marry a German merchant. The museum focuses on her writings and the clash of cultures in her life story.

Freddie Mercury Museum

Located in his childhood home, this small but popular museum celebrates the early life of Queen’s legendary frontman. The ticket is way too expensive, taking in the considering the value that you can find inside (mostly pictures).

Museum of Natural History

Once a school, it became a museum highlighting the island’s wildlife and natural environment.

Peace Memorial Museum

Built during the British Protectorate in a striking domed style, it was once the main national museum of Zanzibar, with exhibits on history, archaeology, and ethnography.

Forster Gallery

A smaller cultural venue showcasing art and local heritage, often featuring exhibitions related to Zanzibar’s diverse communities.

Saint Joseph’s Cathedral

A late 19th-century Catholic church with twin spires, built by French missionaries. It remains one of the tallest and most photographed landmarks in Stone Town.

Christ Church Cathedral

It was built on the site of Zanzibar’s former slave market. The church itself is a major symbol of abolition, and the adjacent East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition gives a powerful account of this dark chapter.

East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition

Located within the old slave chambers, it documents the history of slavery in Zanzibar and the wider region. At first, you are joined by the guide and at the end of the tour, you get the time to read and explore information boards independently. Very interesting!

Hamamni Persian Baths

It was built in the late 19th century by Sultan Barghash for public bathing. Though no longer functioning, the vaulted rooms and underground passages are still impressive. In March 2025, it was closed for renovation, but workers let me in to have a look for a small fee.

Jaw’s Corner

A lively square in the heart of Stone Town where locals gather for coffee, discussions, and news.

Darajani Bazaar

Stone Town’s main market, bustling with stalls selling spices, seafood, meat, and fresh produce. It’s both a shopping destination and a cultural experience.

The Forodhani of Zanzibar

A waterfront park that transforms in the evenings into a famous open-air food market, known for seafood grills, Zanzibari pizzas, and sugarcane juice. It’s nice to walk around, but I don’t recommend eating there as it is a typical tourist trap with low-quality food but high prices.

Shangani Public Beach

A small but central beach near the Old Fort and House of Wonders, often busy with locals and children swimming at sunset.

Old Portuguese Arch

A remnant of the island’s Portuguese era, serving as a small but symbolic piece of Stone Town’s layered history.

High Court

A colonial-era structure still in use as part of Zanzibar’s judiciary.

Maruhubi Historical Sites

These ruins belonged to Sultan Barghash and were originally built as a palace and harem. Although damaged by fire, the gardens, aqueducts, and stone remnants still suggest its former splendour. There should be a guardian on site who can open it for you. Needless to say, you need to negotiate the entrance ticket price to avoid being ripped off. You don’t need more than 15 minutes to see everything.

Mtoni Palace Ruins

The remains of a grand 19th-century palace built for Sultan Said. Princess Salme, one of Zanzibar’s most famous historical figures, lived here in her youth. The site is mostly ruins now, and you can be shown around by a local guide hanging out there.

Kibweni Palace Museum

Located just outside Stone Town, this palace was once tied to the Omani sultans. Today, it functions as a small museum that gives insight into royal life and Zanzibar’s Omani heritage.

Kidichi Spice Farm

Zanzibar is famous as the “Spice Island,” and Kidichi is one of the best places to experience that legacy. Located inland, it is a traditional spice plantation where visitors can see, smell, and taste spices like cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Guided tours usually involve walking through the plantation while learning about the cultivation and uses of each plant.

Changu Island

Often nicknamed Prison Island, Changu lies just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Despite the name, it was never really used as a prison for locals. It was intended as a detention site for rebellious slaves and later became a quarantine station for yellow fever. Today, its main draw is the population of giant Aldabra tortoises, some over a century old. Other than that, there is nothing much to see or do.

Bawe Island

This small coral island sits west of Stone Town and is less crowded than other destinations. Bawe is popular with snorkelers and divers. There is a high-end resort in case you want to stay overnight in a luxurious place.

Nakupenda Sandbank

“Nakupenda” means I love you in Swahili, and this sandbank certainly lives up to the name. It’s a stretch of white sand that appears at low tide just off the coast of Stone Town. There are no permanent structures, just a strip of sand surrounded by turquoise water. Day trips usually combine snorkelling, sunbathing, and fresh seafood picnics prepared by guides.

Chumbe Island

Chumbe is a protected marine reserve and eco-lodge, about 12 kilometres from Stone Town. The island is best known for its coral reef sanctuary, which is considered one of the most pristine in the region. However, the high costs of visiting, even for a day trip, make it rather unworthy.

Chapwani Island

This private island is smaller and more low-key. Chapwani has mangroves, small beaches, and shallow reefs. It is also historically significant as it houses a small cemetery for British naval officers from the 19th century. The island is home to a boutique lodge, so you will have to stay there to explore the surroundings.

The North

Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Beach is one of Zanzibar’s most famous stretches of coastline. The sand is bright white and very fine, and the turquoise waters are calm, especially at low tide. Unlike many beaches on the east coast of Zanzibar, Nungwi is less affected by tidal changes, so you can swim almost any time of day. It’s also a lively area with beach bars, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for activities like snorkelling, diving, or sunset cruises in traditional dhow boats.

Zanzibar Aquarium

This small but unique aquarium isn’t the typical glass-tank kind. Instead, it’s a natural lagoon that serves as a conservation project for injured or endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about local marine life and even help release rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean at certain times of the year. I had mixed feelings while feeding the turtles, which seemed to be a tourist attraction. I hope they are really released back into the ocean, but the reality may not be that positive.

Royal Beach

Royal Beach is a quieter spot near Nungwi, often associated with the upscale resorts in the area. It has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the main beach and is great if you’re looking for less crowded sunbathing and a more polished, resort-style vibe. The waters here are also ideal for swimming, and the sunsets are spectacular.

Kendwa Beach

Located just a short drive or walk south of Nungwi. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar. It has the same white sands and clear water, but with an even more laid-back feel. Kendwa is especially famous for its full moon parties, which bring together travellers and locals for music and dancing under the stars. Outside of those nights, it’s calm and perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging.

Dolphin Boat Trip

From Nungwi, you can join boat trips that take you offshore to spot dolphins, particularly near Mnemba Atoll or other parts of the northern coast. These trips often include snorkelling in coral-rich waters, where you can see colourful fish and maybe even sea turtles. While it’s thrilling to see dolphins in the wild, it’s good to choose operators that follow responsible practices and avoid chasing or stressing the animals. That is the difficult part. Tourists jump into the water while the boat driver sees the dolphins passing by.

Fukuchani Ruins & Cave

The ruins are remnants of a 16th-century Swahili settlement. Walking among the stone structures, you can see traces of old houses and walls, which give you a glimpse of how people lived centuries ago on Zanzibar’s northern coast.

The cave nearby is a natural limestone formation with a pool of clear water inside. Local communities have traditionally used it as a freshwater source, and today it remains a quiet spot for exploration. Unfortunately, the experience is ruined by the scammers who sell the way overpriced ‘tickets’ and try to rip off the tourists. Don’t let them fool you and either negotiate the price or just skip this place.

Muyuni Beach

Muyuni is a quiet, untouched stretch of beach facing Mnemba Island. It has some of the softest white sand and shallow, clear waters, making it excellent for swimming and snorkelling. Because it’s less developed than Nungwi or Kendwa, you won’t find as many crowds. Local fishermen still use the area, so you get a glimpse of everyday coastal life.

Mnemba Island

Just offshore, Mnemba is a small private island known for its marine reserve. While staying on the island itself is limited to luxury guests, day trips from nearby beaches let you enjoy the waters around it. Snorkelling and diving here are great, with colourful fish, and sometimes dolphins or turtles. The island is often used as a picture-perfect backdrop for boat excursions.

Matemwe

Matemwe village and beach are located opposite Mnemba. The village has a strong fishing culture, and you’ll often see locals mending nets or heading out to sea.

Kiwengwa Beach

Kiwengwa is sometimes called the “Little Italy” of Zanzibar because of its popularity with Italian visitors and resorts. The beach itself is long and wide, great for long walks, water sports, or just lounging. The tidal changes here are dramatic: at low tide, you can walk far out into the reef, while at high tide, the water comes right up to the beach.

Kiwengwa Caves

These caves are part of Zanzibar’s limestone landscape and have a history of being used by local communities for shelter and rituals. Today, they’re managed as a small heritage and eco-site. Inside, you’ll find impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a sense of mystery. Visiting requires going through the community-managed entrance and getting a guide.

Pongwe Beach

The bay is naturally protected by a reef, creating a lagoon-like setting with gentle waters. Unlike busier beaches, Pongwe has fewer resorts, so it keeps a quiet, intimate feel. Hammocks strung between palm trees and views of the turquoise sea make it one of Zanzibar’s best spots for pure relaxation.

Mangapwani Slave Chamber

This is a historical cave chamber linked to Zanzibar’s slave trade past. It was used in the 19th century to hold enslaved people before they were secretly shipped out after the trade was officially abolished. The guide there can explain the history, and you walk down into the cool, dim stone chamber. The surrounding area also has scenic coastal views.

Second World War Bunker

Nearby, you can also find a remnant from the Second World War, a bunker built during the conflict. Though simple in appearance, it’s an unusual sight in Zanzibar and a reminder of the island’s strategic importance in the Indian Ocean during that time. Unfortunately, it was inaccessible during my visit there in March 2025.

The South

Michamvi Sunset Beach

This spot on the southeastern peninsula is famous for its golden sunsets over Chwaka Bay. Unlike most of Zanzibar’s east coast, which faces sunrise, Michamvi gives you the rare chance to watch the sun sink directly into the ocean. The beach itself is calm and not too crowded, but as of March 2025, there was a lot of construction going on.

Pingwe Beach

Pingwe is best known as the home of “The Rock” restaurant, perched dramatically on a coral outcrop just offshore. The beach around it is quiet and picturesque, with shallow turquoise water at low tide and deeper blues at high tide. It’s a great stop for photos and for enjoying a long meal with a view.

Mwani Zanzibar

This is a seaweed farm and women’s cooperative near Paje. Visitors can learn how seaweed is harvested, dried, and turned into products like soaps, lotions, and natural cosmetics. It’s both an educational experience and a way to support local women-led businesses. Walking among the seaweed plots during low tide gives a unique glimpse of coastal livelihoods.

Paje Beach

Paje is one of Zanzibar’s liveliest beaches and a hub for kitesurfing. The steady winds and shallow lagoon make it a world-class spot for the sport. Beyond that, it’s a social place with beach bars, hostels, and guesthouses, drawing backpackers and younger travellers.

Kuza Cave

A hidden natural limestone cave near Jambiani with a pool of crystal-clear water inside. The cave is considered sacred by some local communities, and the cool water makes it a refreshing place to swim.

Maalum Cave

The cave itself is a limestone sinkhole filled with clear, turquoise water that has filtered naturally through the surrounding rock. It’s sheltered and shaded, so the water stays cool even on hot days. The cave is deep enough for swimming, not just wading, and the light filtering through the opening makes the water glow beautifully.

There is a restaurant and other infrastructure on site, and they also provide you with a towel, water shoes, swimming mask and snorkel. However, all of that comes ata price of 20 USD per person.

Jambiani Beach

This beach south of Paje has a quieter, more traditional feel. The fishing village atmosphere is strong here: you’ll see locals pushing their canoes or women collecting seaweed. The beach is long and beautiful, with fewer crowds.

Jambiani Sandbank

Just offshore, there’s a sandbank that appears at low tide. Boats can take you there, and it becomes a dreamy little island of white sand surrounded by turquoise sea.

Makunduchi Beach & Lighthouse

Further south, Makunduchi is a wide, tranquil beach with almost no development compared to the more touristy areas. The lighthouse stands at the tip of the southern coast and provides panoramic views but as of March 2025, there was no one site to let us climb to the top.

Mtende Beach

Mtende is one of Zanzibar’s most dramatic coastal landscapes. Huge cliffs frame a small beach, with Mtende Rock rising like a giant sculpture in the water. At low tide you can walk around and explore tidal pools, while at high tide, the beach disappears almost completely.

Kizimkazi Mkunguni

This fishing village on the southwest coast is famous for dolphin tours, though it also has historical significance. There’s an ancient mosque here, one of the oldest in East Africa, dating back many centuries.

Jozani Forest National Park

Located in central Zanzibar, this is the island’s only national park and home to the rare red colobus monkey, found only here. Walking trails lead you through mangrove boardwalks, mahogany trees, and forest. For me, it was the most overpriced and disappointing experience in Zanzibar. Yes, we saw red colobus, but it had nothing to do with a hike in the forest, as we were very close to the tarmac road and there were lots of farmlands.

Historic House of Bi Khole

This restored 19th-century house belonged to Princess Sayyida Bi Khole, a daughter of Sultan Said. Today, it’s a museum showcasing Zanzibari history, architecture, and Arab influences of that era. The house retains many original features and gives insight into how elite families lived at the time. As always, try to negotiate the price as the first ‘offer’ is way too optimistic.

Safari Blue

One of Zanzibar’s most popular day excursions, based around sailing on a traditional dhow boat along the Menai Bay Conservation Area on the south-west coast. The trip usually combines several highlights: snorkelling over coral reefs, spotting dolphins, swimming in a natural lagoon,and relaxing on a sandbank that appears with the tide. The day also includes a seafood barbecue served under the shade of mangroves or palm trees on Kwale Island. I went with the Original Safari Blue Company, and everything was excellent.

Kwale Island

Kwale is one of the central islands visited on Safari Blue. It’s larger and more lively than Niamembe, with shady baobab trees and sheltered spots for setting up lunch. Many tours use Kwale as the main base, where seafood feasts are prepared and served. The beach is wide and sandy, and at low tide, you can explore tidal pools. The island’s giant ancient baobab tree is a favourite stop for photos and climbing.

Niamembe Island

Niamembe is a small, private-feeling island near the Safari Blue route. It has the kind of unspoiled, soft white sand and calm water that look straight out of a postcard. Few people visit, so it feels like a deserted island when you land. Because of its isolation, the snorkelling around its reefs is excellent, with colourful fish and corals thriving in the clear shallows. Getting there is more expensive as it usually requires a customised dhow trip.

Dar es Salaam is the largest city and main commercial hub of Tanzania, located along the eastern coast of the country on the Indian Ocean. It started as a small fishing village before developing into an important port and trading centre during the 19th century. Later, under German and British colonial rule, it expanded further and eventually became the capital of Tanzania until the government shifted the administrative capital to Dodoma (though Dar es Salaam remains the country’s economic centre).

The name “Dar es Salaam” comes from Arabic, roughly meaning “Haven of Peace” or “Abode of Peace.” It was given in the mid-19th century by Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar, who founded the settlement around 1865. The name reflects the city’s coastal role as both a safe harbour and a welcoming trade hub.

The history of Dar es Salaam

Early Beginnings

Before it became a city, the site of present-day Dar es Salaam was home to small fishing communities along the coast. The sheltered harbour made it a convenient spot for local trade with inland groups and for regional exchanges across the Indian Ocean.

Founded in the 19th Century

In the 1860s, Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar established a settlement there. He gave it the name Dar es Salaam, meaning “Abode of Peace” in Arabic. He aimed to create a new trading town on the mainland that could complement Zanzibar’s commercial dominance. However, after he died in 1870, development slowed and the settlement declined in importance for a time.

German Colonial Era

In the late 19th century, the Germans arrived and made the town an administrative centre for their colony, German East Africa. They developed infrastructure, including roads, government buildings, and the port, and expanded trade routes to connect the interior with the coast. Dar es Salaam grew into a hub for exporting raw materials such as sisal, coffee, and cotton.

British Administration

After Germany’s defeat in World War I, the League of Nations mandated the territory to Britain. Under British rule, Dar es Salaam remained the administrative and commercial centre of Tanganyika. Railways, schools, and hospitals were expanded, and the population continued to rise, attracting African, Arab, Indian, and European communities.

Path to Independence

In the mid-20th century, the city became a focal point for nationalist movements pushing for independence. When Tanganyika gained independence in 1961, Dar es Salaam was the capital. It also became the capital of the newly united Tanzania in 1964, after Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged.

Post-Independence Growth

Even after the Tanzanian government decided in 1973 to relocate the capital to Dodoma (a plan still unfolding decades later), Dar es Salaam retained its dominance as the largest city and economic powerhouse. It has remained the country’s busiest port and a centre of finance, industry, and education.

Modern Era

Today, Dar es Salaam is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. It serves as a gateway for trade not only for Tanzania but also for landlocked countries in East and Central Africa, such as Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from African, Arab, Indian, and European heritage reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle.

How to get there?

By Air

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is the main gateway. It handles most international and domestic flights.

Direct international connections exist from cities in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. You may need a layover in hubs such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Doha, Istanbul, or Dubai.

By Sea

Dar es Salaam has a large port that serves both cargo and passenger ferries. There are regular ferries from Zanzibar and other coastal towns. Some cruise ships also stop here.

By Land

Long-distance buses connect Dar es Salaam with major Tanzanian cities such as Dodoma, Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeya. They also run to neighbouring countries like Kenya, Malawi, and Zambia.

You can drive to Dar es Salaam via Tanzania’s road network, but road conditions vary, so planning and a reliable vehicle are essential.

The Tanzania–Zambia Railway (TAZARA) links Dar es Salaam with Zambia, passing through southern Tanzania. Another line connects the city with central and northern Tanzania.

The best time to visit

Dry Season (June to October)

This is the most popular period for visitors. The weather is warm but less humid, and there’s very little rain. Ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and trips to nearby islands or game reserves. It also overlaps with the peak safari season in Tanzania, so many travellers combine city visits with wildlife tours.

Hot Season (November to February)

Temperatures rise, and it can feel quite humid, but the city is lively. Good time for cultural experiences and festivals, though beaches may be less comfortable during the hottest days.

Rainy Season (March to May)

This period sees heavy rains, which can cause flooding and make travel less convenient. On the plus side, accommodation prices are usually lower, and the landscape is very green.

Where to stay?

During my several days’ stay in the city, I spent my nights in two budget-friendly accommodations:

Gallivanters Hostel is a budget accommodation in Masaki, but they also offer private rooms with shared bathroom, which are of good price and quality ratio.

Zimbo Golden Hotel is located in the city centre, near Kariakoo Market. The area is quite messy and chaotic, but it remains as authentic as possible, and I felt safe. The room was spacious, but the AC worked poorly. The breakfast included in the price was simple but acceptable.

What to see in the city?

Fish Market

A great way to kick off the morning in Dar es Salaam is with a stop at the bustling Fish Market. At dawn, fishermen unload their fresh catch, turning the place into a lively scene of bargaining, shouting, and excitement. The energy is contagious as boats dock and baskets overflow with seafood. Once you’ve taken in the spectacle, cross over to the other side of Kivukoni Road, where you can sample some of the day’s catch – crispy, freshly fried, and full of flavor.

Azania-Front-Cathedral

It is a historic Lutheran church built during the German colonial period in the late 19th century, when the city was the administrative capital of German East Africa. Its design follows a neo-Gothic style, with a tall steeple, stained-glass windows, and pointed arches that reflect European church architecture of that era.

National Museum and House of Culture

The largest museum in Tanzania and an important place to learn about the country’s history, art, and cultural heritage. It was first established in the mid-20th century and has since grown into a center that showcases everything from prehistoric discoveries to modern traditions.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits on human evolution, including fossils linked to the famous finds from Olduvai Gorge, as well as displays on Tanzania’s diverse ethnic groups, colonial history, and the struggle for independence. The museum also features collections of traditional crafts, musical instruments, and contemporary art that highlight the richness of Tanzanian culture.

Botanic Gardens

A quiet green escape in the middle of busy town. They were first established during the German colonial era and were used as a testing ground for tropical plants. Though not very large, they make for a pleasant stroll.

Ocean Road Cancer Institute

Built in the early 20th century during German rule, the building originally served as a hospital. Over time, it was transformed into Tanzania’s main cancer treatment and research center. The historic architecture of the institute, set against the Indian Ocean, makes it a striking landmark.

Karimjee Hall

Another notable colonial-era landmarks. Built in the early 20th century with funding from the wealthy Karimjee family, it originally served as the City Hall during the British administration. Its grand architecture, complete with large columns and a distinctive clock tower, reflects the style of civic buildings from that period.

Over the years, Karimjee Hall played a central role in Tanzania’s political history. It even hosted sessions of the country’s parliament before the move to Dodoma. Today, the hall is used for official events, public functions, and sometimes cultural activities.

Asaki Monument

At the crossroad of Samora Ave and Nnamdi Azikiwe Ave stands the Askari Monument. It was unveiled in the 1920s to honor African soldiers who fought in World War I as part of the British colonial forces. The bronze statue shows a soldier holding a rifle, facing toward the harbor, symbolizing both defense and sacrifice.

Azam Roundabout

Not far away is the lively Azam Roundabout, a bustling junction that captures the energy of Dar es Salaam’s downtown. It’s named after the Azam group, one of Tanzania’s largest companies, and the roundabout is surrounded by shops, offices, and heavy traffic. For visitors, it’s less about sightseeing and more about experiencing the pulse of the modern city.

Little India

Around Kisutu Street, you’ll find a neighborhood with strong Indian influences. The streets are lined with spice shops, vegetarian restaurants, textile stores, and jewelry shops. It’s a part of Dar es Salaam where the Indian diaspora’s presence is most visible.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is one of the main centers for the Hindu community. Built in traditional style, it features carved details and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities. It’s a peaceful place of worship and an example of how immigrant communities, especially those of Indian origin, have shaped the cultural fabric of the city.

Another significant Hindu temple nearby is the Shree Shankar Ashram Mandir. Its architecture and colorful interior reflect Indian traditions, and it’s often a hub for cultural events, festivals, and ceremonies.

Old Boma

Built in the 1860s by Sultan Majid of Zanzibar, the Old Boma is one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings. It was originally part of the Sultan’s complex and later used by German colonial administrators. With its coral stone walls and carved wooden doors, it reflects a blend of Swahili and Arab architectural styles. Today, it houses cultural offices and exhibitions.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

This striking Catholic cathedral was constructed by German missionaries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its Gothic design, complete with tall spires and stained-glass windows, makes it stand out near the waterfront.

Atiman House

Named after Dr. Atiman, a former slave who later became a respected physician, this colonial-era building carries both architectural and human history. It is one of the city’s preserved heritage structures, representing the personal story of resilience.

Kariakoo Market

Lively, crowded, and full of energy, Kariakoo Market is one of the biggest trading centers in Tanzania. It has been a hub for commerce since the early 20th century, when the Germans used the area as a settlement for freed slaves and later developed it into a market. Today, you can find everything here, fresh produce, clothes, household goods, and street food. It’s the kind of place where you feel the true rhythm of everyday life in Dar es Salaam.

Makumbusho Village Museum

An open-air museum that brings Tanzania’s diverse cultures to life. Instead of displaying objects behind glass, it recreates traditional homes from different ethnic groups across the country. Each hut is built using authentic methods and materials, showing how people live in rural areas.

Visitors can walk from one homestead to another, gaining a sense of the variety in architecture, tools, and daily life. Beyond the structures, the museum often hosts live demonstrations such as traditional dances, drumming, and craft-making.

I highly recommend taking a guide from the entrance as there are no descriptions what you are looking at.

Coco Beach

Located along the Msasani Peninsula, it is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It’s especially lively on weekends when families, food vendors, and musicians gather by the shoreline. While swimming isn’t always ideal due to currents, it’s a great place for people-watching, enjoying street snacks, and catching the sea breeze.

The Slipway

A favorite hangout for expats and travelers, The Slipway is a waterfront complex with restaurants, shops, and a small craft market. It’s also a departure point for boat trips to nearby islands. The setting is relaxed, with beautiful views of the ocean, especially at sunset.

Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society

This cooperative showcases the famous Tinga Tinga painting style, which originated in Tanzania. The art is known for its bright colors and playful depictions of animals and everyday life. At the cooperative, you can watch artists at work, purchase unique pieces directly, and even learn about the history of the movement.

Mwenge Woodcarvers Market

For souvenirs, Mwenge is the place to go. Here, dozens of artisans sell hand-carved wooden masks, sculptures, and household items, often working on their craft right in front of you.

What to see out of town?

Pugu Hills

Southwest of Dar es Salaam, the Pugu Hills offer a mix of forest, hills, and wildlife. The area is home to one of the world’s oldest known forests, where you can find unique plant species, birds, and small animals. Walking trails lead through lush greenery and up to viewpoints overlooking the city and coastal plains. Besides hiking and birdwatching, the hills are also valued for their caves and sacred sites, which carry cultural importance for local communities. There is also a small lake where you can enjoy kayaking.

The site can be reached by taxi ordered from Uber or Bolt. At the entrance, you will have to register and hire a mandatory guide.

Bongoyo Island

A small, uninhabited island, located about 7 kilometers north of Dar es Salaam. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

The island features a mix of coastal vegetation and some baobab trees. Marine life includes tropical fish and occasional sightings of sea turtles and other aquatic species.

There are basic facilities such as a small restaurant that serves freshly caught seafood and drinks. As soon as you arrive, the local guys will approach you with the menu. Choose whatever you want and say at what time you would like it to be served.

Read more in a separate post HERE.

Mbeya Island

Another nearby island which is as well the part of a protected area that helps conserve coral reefs and marine life. Snorkeling and diving around the island reveal colorful corals, tropical fish, and occasionally sea turtles. The atmosphere feels peaceful and unspoiled.