Dar Es Salaam Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Travelers seek ways to manage their budget while experiencing the destination fully. Make use of these ways to Dar es Salaam.

Cost Management for Activities

No specific tourist discount cards or city passes exist. Focus on other savings.
Walk around the city center; see Askari Monument, Clock Tower.
Stroll through the Botanical Gardens for a tranquil escape.
Visit Coco Beach for its lively local atmosphere.

Dining and Transport Value

Upscale bars/restaurants in Masaki/Oysterbay may have happy hour.
Look for lunch specials; they often are a better deal.
Use dala-dalas and the DART system for budget-friendly transport.
For taxi rides, use Uber or Bolt for transparent fares.

Accommodation Smart Choices

Consider hostels or guesthouses for budget stays.
Airbnb has self-catering options, saving on food expenses.
Negotiate rates at smaller, independent hotels during the low season.
Enjoy window shopping at Kariakoo Market.

Efficient Movement

Walk short distances where the surroundings are safe and practical.
Use Google Maps to check real-time traffic before departing.
Group sights by location to minimize travel time.
Pre-arranged hotel transport or ride-sharing apps offer efficient airport transfers.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficiency during your Dar es Salaam trip helps you experience more without unnecessary waiting.

Booking and Planning Ahead

For the ferry to Zanzibar, book tickets online ahead of time.
Museums and attractions generally possess no long queues.
Flights and accommodation bookings are good for high season travel.
Safari or major island excursions need booking in advance.

Optimal Visit Times

Markets (Kariakoo, Kivukoni Fish Market): Go early for peak activity.
Islands (Bongoyo, Mbudya): Depart early to maximize time at the beach.
City Center: Visit mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak traffic.
Ferry to Zanzibar: Highly recommend booking ahead.

Transportation Choices

DART (BRT) moves quicker than dala-dalas on its routes.
Uber or Bolt typically offer quicker and more direct routes.
For airport transfers, pre-arranged accommodation shuttles are efficient.
Group attractions by geographical area to limit travel time.

Digital Planning

Use Google Maps to check real-time traffic conditions.
For the ferry to Zanzibar, book online in advance to skip queues.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt often have lower fares.
Carry small denominations of Tanzanian Shillings.

Local Insights

Local insights guide you for a smoother Dar es Salaam journey.

Common Traveler Mistakes

Not bargaining for taxis (if not using apps) and market goods.
Not carrying coins; many vendors cannot break large notes.
Ignoring local customs like modest dress and using the right hand.
Walking alone at night; avoid for safety.

Social Norms and Safety

Bargaining is a social interaction, keep it friendly.
In crowds, watch your belongings.
"Hakuna Matata" reflects a relaxed attitude.
Stick to bottled or purified water.

Local Customs

Greetings are important; always greet before asking.
"Pole pole" (slowly slowly) reflects local patience.
Respect for elders shows through greetings and demeanor.
Give and receive with the right hand; the left is unclean.

Impress Local People

Try a few Swahili phrases beyond greetings.
"Habari gani?" (How's the news?) will be appreciated.
"Nimefurahi kukuona" (Nice to see you) shows friendliness.
For language learning, Babbel helps with Swahili.

Solo, Family & Group-Specific Advice

Different travel styles call for specific advice. These tips address solo travelers, families, and groups.

Solo Traveler Advice

Be extra vigilant. Inform someone of your itinerary.
Avoid walking alone at night for safety reasons.
Stay in hostels with public spaces to meet people.
Join group tours or frequent expat-friendly bars in Masaki.

Family Travel Tips

Choose hotels with pools and family rooms.
Many restaurants cater to international tastes; check food hygiene.
Use Uber or Bolt for family transport. Bring car seats if needed.
Kunduchi Water Park, Bongoyo Island are popular family activities.

Group Travel Logistics

Book accommodation and tours in advance for larger groups.
Consider a private minibus with a driver for group transport.
Make restaurant reservations for larger groups, especially in upscale venues.
For travel organization, Eagle Creek has products.

Accessibility Considerations

Mobility challenges: Extensive pre-planning for accessible hotels.
Visual impairments: Carry translation aids.
Hearing impairments: Inform guides and hotel staff in advance.
Contact local NGOs for accessibility support.

Travel Smart with Technology

A Virtual Private Network (NordVPN) helps keep your online activities secure and private while traveling.

Accessibility Considerations

Dar es Salaam possesses several options for different traveler needs.

Mobility Challenges

Pre-planning for accessible hotels and private transport is . Local NGOs can offer support.

Visual Impairments

Carry translation aids. Inform guides and hotel staff of specific needs in advance.

Hearing Impairments

Advance communication with guides and hotel staff about your requirements is good.

General Safety Practices

Personal Safety

Keep valuable items out of view.
Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Plan your routes in advance.

Health Safety

Drink only bottled or purified water.
Use insect repellent to guard against mosquitoes.
Maintain good hand hygiene.

Safety for All Travelers

Always exercise caution and use reputable services. For solo travelers, sharing your itinerary with someone is good practice.

← Previous

Dar Es Salaam Itineraries

← Back to Dar Es Salaam

Next →

Dar Es Salaam Travel Resources

Next Up: Dar Es Salaam Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Continue to Dar Es Salaam Travel Resources