Dar Es Salaam Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local Connectivity

Obtaining a local SIM card simplifies communication during your visit.

SIM Card Essentials

Providers: Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo, Halotel.
Purchase at Airport (DAR) or official stores.
Passport and fingerprints required for registration.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi and mobile data options provide reliable internet access.

Access Options

Wi-Fi is available in the majority of hotels, guesthouses, and upscale cafes.
Mobile data with a local SIM offers generally fast speeds.
Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi can be rented for continuous connectivity.

Language & Translation

Swahili is the official language; English is spoken in tourist areas.

Navigating Languages

Official language is Swahili (Kiswahili).
English is widely spoken in tourist and business areas.
Download the Swahili offline pack for the Google Translate app.

Useful Phrases

Learning a few basic Swahili phrases aids interaction.

Greetings & Words

Jambo (Hello), Asante (Thank you), Karibu (Welcome).
Habari (How's it going?), Nzuri (I am fine).
Tafadhali (Please), Pole pole (Slowly slowly).

Cultural Greetings

Respectful Interactions

Handshakes are common, lighter with women.
Use "Shikamoo" for elders, responding with "Marahaba".
Offer greetings before starting conversations.
Language learning via Rosetta Stone can deepen interactions.

Communication Tips

"Ndiyo" for Yes, "Hapana" for No.
"Maji" for Water, "Chakula" for Food.
"Bei gani?" for How much?
"Sawa" for Okay / Fine.

Staying Connected

A local SIM card from Vodacom or Airtel offers affordable data. For travelers in search of a reliable alternative, consider a portable WiFi device from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent internet access.

Business & Travel Schedules

An overview of operating hours, banking, and holiday impact.

Shop Hours

Shops generally operate 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM on weekdays, some open Saturday mornings.

Banking Access

Banks are typically open 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM on weekdays; ATMs are widely available 24/7.

Restaurant Times

Breakfast from 7:00 AM, midday meal from 12:00 PM, dinner until 10:00 PM or later at upscale places.

Public Holidays

National and religious holidays influence business operations.

Dates

Union Day (April 26), Worker's Day (May 1), National Day of independence (Dec 9).
Saba Saba (Industry Day, July 7), Nane Nane (Farmer's Day, August 8).
Religious holidays vary annually.

Travel Advisory

Public holidays may see increased transportation activity.

Planning Ahead

Government offices and banks usually close.
Some businesses also observe closures.
Transport services may operate on a modified schedule.

Airport Services

Pre-Travel

Using Priority pass for airport lounges. Enjoy comfort during layovers.
Compensair assists with flight disruptions. Claim compensation for delays.
Ensure valid travel documents.

General Operations

Shopping malls operate longer hours, often until NINE:00 PM.
Markets like Kariakoo start early at 7:00 AM.
Seasonal closures are uncommon for general city businesses.

Important Notice

Always verify specific business hours, particularly during public holidays. For seamless airport experiences, consider investing in a Priority Pass for lounge access or use Compensair for flight delay compensation.

Cultural Norms & Safety

Guidelines for respectful interactions and important safety information.

Local Etiquette

Adopt local customs for positive interactions.

Interaction Guide

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Use your right hand for transactions and eating.

Social Behavior

Public conduct that aligns with local expectations.

Respectful Conduct

Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics with strangers.
Keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
Show respect for all religions.

Photography Guidelines

Ethical practices for taking photographs.

Photo Courtesy

Always seek explicit permission for photos of individuals.
Avoid photographing military or government buildings.
Be discreet in crowded areas.

Religious Sites

Appropriate conduct when visiting sacred places.

Sacred Space Conduct

Dress modestly; women need head coverings for mosques.
Remove shoes before entering mosques.
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.

Important Considerations

LGBTQ+ Community

Homosexuality is illegal in Tanzania.
Same-sex relationships are not socially accepted.
Public displays of affection are highly discouraged.

Safety Advice

Exercise extreme discretion and caution.
Legal consequences or harassment are possible.
Prioritize personal safety and awareness.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

Infrastructure for accessibility is generally limited.
Bumpy pavements and lack of ramps are common.
Public transport options are not accessible.

Support & Resources

Newer upscale hotels or malls may offer better accessibility.
Private, pre-arranged accessible transport is necessary.
Learning basic Swahili or using translation cards assists communication.

Personal Responsibility

Always prioritize your safety and respect local laws and customs. Research and plan carefully, especially for sensitive topics or accessibility needs. Awareness of local norms helps ensure a respectful visit.

Visitor Support

Useful contacts and resources for a safe and informed stay.

Emergency Contacts

Keep essential emergency numbers readily available.

Useful Numbers

Police: 112
Ambulance: 112
Fire Department: 112

Healthcare Facilities

Access to medical services in Dar es Salaam.

Medical Access

Aga Khan Hospital: Reputable private hospital.
Regency Medical Centre: Another reliable option.
Pharmacies are common for basic medications.

Consular Services

Embassies and consulates provide help for foreign nationals.

Diplomatic Support

Locate your country's embassy or consulate.
Register your travel with your embassy.
Assistance with lost passports or emergencies.

Local Tourism Offices

Official sources for travel information and support.

Visitor Information

Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB): Official tourism body.
Hotel tour desks for local advice.
Reputable local tour operators.

Sustainable Travel Contacts

Organizations promoting eco-friendly and responsible tourism.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Find accommodations that prioritize environmental sustainability.

Ecobnb

Carbon Offsetting

Support initiatives to balance your travel's environmental footprint.

Terrapass

Ethical Tours

Travel with operators committed to positive local impacts.

G Adventures

Stay Informed

Always have contact information for your embassy and local emergency services readily available. Think about getting travel insurance for comprehensive coverage. For specialized assistance, reach out to relevant organizations or tour operators.

Dar Es Salaam Travel Tips