Dar es Salaam

Karibu Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam was Tanzania’s capital city. It is the commercial capital and the largest city in the country. Located in southern Tanzania on coast of the Indian Ocean, Dar is a bustling, chaotic place, filled with life and color.

The city is primarily a port city in southern Tanzania, located on a huge natural harbor. “Dar es Salaam” means “haven of peace”, but you’ll find with almost 3 million people calling the city home, it’s not exactly tranquil.

Dar es Salaam it is the economic heart of the country, the high rise business district buzzes with activity throughout the day.

The government was officially moved to Dodoma in the center of Tanzania in the 1970’s, but Dar es Salaam is the true capital and the central government by and large still operates from here.

Visitors to Dar es Salaam are usually en route to Tanzania’s fantastic southern national parks including the Selous and Ruaha, or catching a ferry to the exotic Zanzibar archipelago.

The best time to visit Dar es Salaam is during the dry season from June – October, otherwise temperatures can get very hot and humid (but you can always dip in the Ocean).

The city remains Tanzania’s social and commercial heart, as the country’s largest city and main port. Most travelers fly into and out of ‘Dar’, as it’s always called.

We’ll often be able to arrange for you to connect straight through to your safari or beach lodge, but occasionally an overnight stop here is needed. Then visitors are often surprised how much they enjoy the place.

Dar isn’t one of Africa’s most beautiful cities; many parts of it are dusty and poor. Yet it’s a vibrant and interesting corner of modern Africa. Colorfully clad people jostle with vehicles and bicycles in the streets, whilst street-stalls sell anything from wooden carvings to matching sets of luggage.

The History of Dar es Salaam

The Modern Dar es Salaam has developed from a small fishing village known as Mzizima. Mzizima were the trees which surrounded the coast by then.

The former Mzizima village was believed to have been located on area occupied by European hospital (now Ocean road hospital) overlooking the Indian ocean, spreading to the area of Magogoni ( now kivukoni).

It was Settled by of Arab traders and wazaramu native (Wamashomvi- one of the clan of the Zaramu tribe.) in the middle of 19th Century under their local leader Pazi, and others like Digalu Kibasila.

Dar es Salaam under Arabs (Sultan Seyyid)

Dar es Salaam was founded in 1862, when Sultan Seyyid Majid of Zanzibar shifted his capital from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam. Sultan purchases the land from zaramo natives for the purpose of building a house.

Dar es Salaam is popularly believed to originate from the Persian- Arabic word Bandar- ul- Salaam meaning in Swahili, Bandari ya Salama.( Dari Salaam)

He changed the name of Mzizima to Dari Salaam, “Dari” means the “upper roof or terrace sheltered” and “Salaam means “safe heaven/ place where someone could rest in peace”, due to the truth that he found the place very safe and he took it without bloodshed.

The political and administrative history of the country starts in Dar es Salaam when Kaiser Wilheim of Germany started friendly negotiations with Sultan Seyyid Barghash for the Germany to take control of the East African coast.

Karl Peters who manage to sign trick contracts with local chiefs to allow Germany use the port.

Later Sultan Seyyid Barghash accepted to give the Germany a good place in the port of Dar es Salaam for German naval ships, but the dominance of the port extends inward the town.

Dar es Salaam under the Germans

In 1887 the Germans colonialists took control of German East African after the partition of Africa in 1885 during the Berlin Conference.

The Germans government transferred its capital to Dar es Salaam from Bagamoyo due to the truth that the Dar es Salaam port had deep berth with good harbor compared to Bagamoyo which was shallow, as a result Dar es Salaam become the administrative and trade centre of Germans.

Soon after Germans took Dar es Salaam from the Arabs, Swahili rulers known as “Wandewa” and natives started construction of residential buildings which some are present up to date and the indigenous zaramu people became workers.

In 1888, Arabs under the leadership of Bushiri revolted and started to fight against the Germans, the main purpose of Bushiri revolt was to snatch the slaves who were evacuated from slave trade merchants and kept at Lutheran and Saint Benedict missions which were stationed at Pugu.

Later Pugu mission was captured by the Arabs, the fathers and sisters were hijacked and killed.

After realizing that the Germany East Africa Company alone cannot counter the Arabs attacks, in 1890 the German government agreed to compensate four million deutschemark to the Sultan of Zanzibar, for the Germany to control ten miles coastal area of East Africa which was then under the sultan.

In 1891, the first Germany governor arrived in Dar es Salaam while the construction of the state house was not completed, when the first German governor arrived he drafted the laws in which the city should have a master plan which shows buildings and future plan for the expansion of the city.

From 1893 to 1896 Dar es Salaam went at a snail pace due to the resistance encountered by local inhabitants.

The Germany government planned to construct Dar es Salaam as the commercial town, hence infrastructure to facilitate business was emphasized from up country up to the port of Dar es Salaam and distribution of water within the town started, and good numbers of wells were constructed by Germany drilling experts. The Central railway from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma was constructed and the port was expanded for easy trade and movement of labour. People were brought from hinterland to work and these were the ones who settled in town. Apart from government buildings Asians constructed many building within the city centre The rich indigenous people (Mamwinyi) stayed in Mzimuni ( now Magomeni) who were the major slave owners, exchanging ivory with slaves. Indigenous people preferred to be employed by the Germans while the Asians undertook commercial activities. Construction of the Central railway to a great extent boosted the growth of Dar es Salaam and flourishing of German colonialism.

However during the construction of the Central railway Maji Maji War erupted in 1905 and spread all over east and south areas of German colony.

Kibasila leader of zaramu people who was living at Kisangire in Manerumango led the group to fight but defeated and committed suicide at Kamata area Dar es Salaam.

Kamata area became famous as a slaughter place for people who committed mistakes.

When construction of Central railway reached Kigoma the WW1 erupted, the war disrupted construction of Dar es Salaam town as a result the Dar es Salaam town was bombed and captured by British in 1916 and the Germans were defeated. State house was badly bombed and the governor escaped to Tabora Region.

Dar es Salaam under the British Protectorate

The League of Nation gave British to govern German East African and the port of Dar es Salaam and the British changed the name of German East Africa to Tanganyika.

In 1919 first British governor Sir Horace Byatt arrived in Dar es Salaam, the British continued to use Dar es Salaam as the town for British colonial government because of good port, security and the social-economic infrastructure like buildings, hospitals, offices, roads, which were left during the Germany rule.

British colonial government reconstructed state house in 1922 which was badly damaged during the WWI where first governor Sir Horace Byatt stayed.

The bombs also destroyed many buildings located at the corner of Jamhuri Street and Maktaba street where Mafuta house is located at present.

Dar es Salaam town believed to grew from the port west side and south west on the side of railway stations where railway company constructed houses for its staff.

On the western side there were Indians houses popularly known as “Uhindini” in which Asians preferred to stay, where many shops, mosque, schools, social clubs were located.

Due to influx of people of Asian origin from Azikiwe/ Maktaba Street up to Upanga road, they decided to invest more in skyscrapers construction due to scarcity of land at the city centre.

Racial segregation was rampant which led to the rich people constructed their houses along Msimbazi riverside the area where Msimbazi river enter the Indian ocean near Salender Bridge name given in honour of first Director of works Mr. selander. That place was called “Uzunguni”.

Southern part was known as Uswahilini, residential area for indigenous people zaramo, with houses constructed with clay soil and roofed with coconut leaves.

In the centre of uswahilini area there was a big market constructed of aluminum sheets to commemorate the first anniversary of Kaiser Wilheim of Germany now Kariakoo market complex.

South of kariakoo another town developed known as Ilala in memory of village in Zambia where Dr. Livingstone died in 1873 . The British put more emphasis on developing Dar es salaam and expanding services like transport network, health services, water distribution.

All wells in Dar es Salaam were served with pipe water. Education was also emphasized to support the initiatives of the Catholics and Protestants who had many schools during the 19thC.

The first primary school was Uhuru (kichwele primary schools) then secondary schools came in like Forodhani, Kibasila, Tambaza and Zanaki.

Dar es Salaam transport started then by use of rickshaws and horse drawn vehicles with very few taxis, then later town bus services came. In 1946, Tanganyika became a United Nations Trust Territory and British had a responsibility of preparing Tanganyika for independence.

And in 1949 Dar es salaam Municipal was established under the leadership of first Mayor P. Everett who was responsible for foreseeing the welfare of city people and town, Municipal rehabilitated roads and buildings like high court, city hall secretariat building etc.

Missionaries also rehabilitate their buildings along Sokoine drive including the two churches of Azania Front & St. Joseph church.

In 1954 the Africans formed the political party known as the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU) to fight for the African rights led by Mwalimu J. K. Nyerere.

Dar es Salaam after Independence

In Dec, 1961 Tanganyika attained its independence under TANU from the British, with a unifying language of Kiswahili. Same year 1961 Dar es Salaam gains its City status and the next year 1962 Mwl. J. K. Nyerere was elected as the first President.

The British granted colonial government to Sultan of Zanzibar in 1963. Then the Africans and Shiraz from Zanzibar joined together to eliminate the Sultan in 1964 and succeeded i.e Zanzibar Revolution.

Later Tanganyika and Zanzibar joined together and form the United Republic of Tanzania under the leadership of the late Mwalimu J. K. Nyerere.

Most of the Dar es Salaam places, streets, roads carry historic memory towards specific events or honored leaders who helped Mwl. Nyerere.

For instance, Rama Mwinshehe name was given to Morogoro road, Idd Tulio (Kongo street), John Rupia ( Kariakoo area) Mshumi Kiate, Bibi Titi Mohamed, Sokoine drive ( second prime minister Edward M. Sokoine) and others.

The Mnazi mmoja area carried a very significant role and historic value of the City and country in particular. During colonial period Mnazi mmoja used to separate the Indians who stayed East from the African and Arabs who stayed west.

The first TANU meeting held in Mnazi mmoja in 1954, Uhuru Torch in 1961 and Mashujaa Momentum in 1969 all commemorated in that area, Arusha Declaration was first announced there in 1967, Moreover in 1952 a Greek, George Anautoglu was allowed to built an entertainment hall for the residents of Dar es Salaam.

The clock tower close to Mnazi mmoja built by Dar es Salaam residents to commemorated the City status in 1961.

What To See and Do In Dar es Salaam

Kivukoni Fish Market

Whether flying in for a Dar es Salaam adventure or a relaxing beach getaway, you will find plenty to explore and enjoy in Dar es Salaam, also known as ‘Dar’.

You can sample the delicious fusion of Swahili, European, Arab, and Indian flavours in the city’s many restaurants, from spicy curries and barbequed meats to fresh seafood and pizza.

At sunrise, there is the vibrant Kivukoni Fish Market to explore, where fisherfolk sell their fresh catches of the day. It’s a marvellous experience, splashed with local colour.

Kariakoo Market

To immerse yourself in the city’s diverse heritage and food traditions and be surrounded by the sights and aromas of its traditional foods and culture, visiting the Kariakoo Market is a must.

This authentic market spreads over a few busy city blocks. It offers home goods, local and international fashions, and myriad foods.

Street Food & Museums

The city is famous for its mouth-watering street foods, which include juicy barbecued chicken, beef, and fish.

These street foods are a must-try for visitors and represent the city’s liveliness and enthusiasm. While exploring the streets and savouring the local cuisine, you can also learn about the city’s history and art by visiting museums and galleries.

The National Museum is widely regarded as one of the top museums in Tanzania. It takes visitors on an engaging journey through the country’s intriguing history.

One of the highlights of your trip will be the Olduvai Gorge archaeological exhibit, which offers a fascinating glimpse into our earliest human history. The museum also features an enlightening exhibit on the slave trade during the colonial period.

Architecture To The Ocean

Dar es Salaam boasts a fascinating mix of architectural styles, reflecting its colonial, Arab and Indian heritage and modern-day development.

You can admire the old colonial buildings in the city centre or marvel at the skyscrapers that adorn the skyline. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting the nearby beaches and islands.

On a Dar es Salaam safari, you can bask in the sun, lounge on the city’s pristine white sands, and swim in the warm sea.

Privately Arranged City Adventures

To fully immerse yourself in this vibrant, energetic and bustling city on your African safari in Tanzania here, we can arrange a private guide to take you around comfortably.

Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will showcase the finest adventures, historical sites, and cultural and culinary experiences you would want to enjoy.

Coco Beach

Stunning Coco Beach is in the Oyster Bay area of the city. One of the more famous beaches, it’s known for its white sandy shorelines, clear blue waters, and swaying tropical palm trees. It provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city.

Botanical Gardens

To enjoy the local nature and plants, you must visit the Botanical Gardens in the city centre.

You can observe over 600 plant species, including rare and endangered ones such as the scarlet flame tree, the cycad, and the jacaranda.

National Museum

The National Museum is an intriguing attraction for those keen on learning about Tanzania’s rich history and diverse culture.

The museum boasts remarkable fossil exhibits that showcase our earliest human ancestors, fascinating displays of its challenged colonial past, and an impressive collection of vintage cars.

Mamboz Corner BBQ

Indulge in succulent, spicy Zanzibari chicken, mouth-watering fried seafood dishes, and local snapper fish specialities at this bustling traditional street food market.

The market is close to the finest hotels and is just a six-minute drive to the National Museum.

Bongoyo Island

Bongoyo Island is a small, uninhabited island and part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve. It’s a popular day trip for swimming, snorkelling, relaxing on the beach, and eating fresh seafood at the island’s restaurant. It’s home to various turtles, dolphins, and fish.

Land of the Tswana

There are so many places that you can visit in Botswana but there are some other attractions that stand out more than others and are worth visiting during Botswana Safari. These make the list of the top Tourist Attractions In Botswana.

There are many tours that you can do in Botswana and the most common is the overland tour, where you can drive around to most parts of the country in an overland truck. Most common tours include a Botswana Wildlife Safari, Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park package, Desert tracking, Premium safaris and 5 to 10 day safaris.

• • Exploring ancient ruins, historical landmar.

• • Immersive cultural experiences, local.

• • Hiking, trekking, extreme sports, and out.

• • A romantic destination like Paris, Venice.

• • Kid-friendly activities, theme parks family.

• • Premium accommodations, gourmet.