My Dar es Salaam: Explore the City Like a Local
Nestled along a natural harbor on the Indian Ocean, Dar es Salaam’s a multicultural city, home to African Tanzanians, Arabic and South Asian communities, British and German expatriates, Catholics, Lutherans and Muslims. This diversity in people is reflected in the culture: the city boasts international cuisine ranging from traditional Tanzanian barbecue and Zanzibari food to Thai, Chinese and American restaurants. Its vibrant music scene has witnessed a rise in Bongo Flava, a form of hip hop
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
at Johari Rontana Hotel
Johari Rontana Hotel
Here is where we meet. Well, hard to say this but i do have cute eyes I'll be waiting at the place where your transport pulls up.
Dar es Salaam Port and Ferry
The port is one of three ocean ports in the country and handles over 90% of the country's cargo traffic, and the ferry to Zanzibar.
St Joseph cathedral
Dominating the harbor front, this Gothic-style Roman Catholic church is the seat of the Dar es Salaam archdiocese. Built by German missionaries between 1897 and 1902, the cathedral features numerous striking elements like the shingled spire, vaulted interior, and stained-glass windows behind the altar. Even today, visitors will find many of the original German inscriptions and artwork, including the carved relief above the main altar. The Sunday morning service is considered by many to be the best time to soak up the atmosphere.
Botanical Garden
Although in danger of disappearing beneath development, these botanical gardens provide an essential shady oasis in the city. They were established in 1893 by Professor Stuhlman, the first Director of Agriculture, and were initially used as a testing ground for cash crops. They're still home to the Horticultural Society, which tends the indigenous and exotic plants, including scarlet flame trees, several species of palm, cycads and jacaranda.
Askari Manument
This bronze statue, dedicated to Africans killed in WWI, is now a favourite haunt of street touts and dubious moneychangers.
Azania Front Cathedral
is a Lutheran church in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, serving as a cathedral for the local diocese. It is among the most well-known landmarks and tourist attractions of the city. It is in the city center, close to the ocean, facing the harbour.
Kivukoni fish market
Discover an authentic slice of daily life in Dar es Salaam. Bargain hard for the catch of the day, treat your taste buds to the freshest seafood, and embrace the unique energy of the Kivukoni Fish Market. Be there early morning to watch as the boats return from the sea to offload their catch, and prepare yourself for an explosion of activity as the marketplace comes alive with auctions. Check out the diverse assortment of marine species and take in the sights and sounds of this distinctive Dar es Salaam attraction.
Kariakoo Market
They say the best way to learn a language is just to start speaking it. This combined experience will have you conversing with the locals by the afternoon -guaranteed!
We’ll start the day by introducing you to the beautifully phonic and melodic language of Kiswahili.
I’ll teach you some of the origins of the language – and some words you probably already know, even if you’re not aware! This isn’t just guidebook Swahili, we’ll cut straight to the words and greetings most commonly use, focussing on how to order food and buy goods. Then, once you’re confident with some key phrases, we’ll head out to the most bustling market area in Dar: Kariakoo market.
Here you’re going to knock the socks off the stallholders by conversing with them in perfect Swahili – I dare you!
Don’t worry, I’ll be right by your side throughout. Expect laughter, amusement, and music as we fill up your toolkit with introductory Swahili.
Mwenge woodcarvers
If you are looking for traditional African sculptures and crafts then the Mwenge Carvers Market is a great source of Makonde artwork.
This is a huge centre where about 200 artists can create and sell their work. Many stalls are shared by a number of artists, but you will also see plenty of carvers hard at work on an open patch of ground.
The carvers are devoted to their craft and spend years developing their particular style. Some pieces will take months or years to complete. Their equipment consists of a small range of tools, plus sandpaper for smoothing and shoe polish for sealing and polishing the wood.
You'll see intricate carvings such as the 'Tree of Life' which can be as tall as a man, figurines, bowls, chests and less common ritual masks, but there are also many everyday items to purchase such as jewellery, salad forks and beautiful ornaments. Additional crafts on display include fabrics, paintings (also Tinga Tinga) and basket ware.
Haggling is part of the experience at Mwenge Carvers Market and a sense of humour is required. You are expected to take part and eventually settle on a reasonable amount. The vendors are not wealthy and have families to support, if you approach the negotiation with fairness and respect in mind you will have a better experience. Tourist prices are generally higher than those for less affluent locals. It is a good idea to have a good walk around and get an idea of what is available and at what price.
Mlimani City Mall
Its a large shopping mall which all shops, restaurants, cinema, children's fun fare, bars Here you can get everything that you want . Almost every weekends I visit Mlimani city, it's one of my favourite spot. The place is a perfect spot to solve all your shopping issues you can items at different prices also, you just have to pick your type of shop
I think right here you can find why Tanzanian coffee is the best in the world. Strangely, Tanzanian people prefer tea over a coffee. The higher quality coffee for which Tanzania is known, Arabica , is famous for its bright acidity and fruity, tart notes.
End of the tour
Ending Point
at Mlimani City Mall
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Transportation fee
Food
Water
Tour Important Information
This tour does not include a private car transfer. From Kivukoni fish market we can take a transport if you wish, because there's a little bit of distance to walk. And from Kariakoo to Mwenge woodcovers its far away from the city center, so will need to take Uber or Three wheels.
Important message from the supplier
Welcome! If you don't see your preferred date or time available, just send me a message. I'll do my best to make it work. I'm happy to customize my tours based on your interests, so don't hesitate to ask. Looking forward to showing you the real Dar es Salaam!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Kevin A.
Hey! I'm Kevin Angelo, born and raised in Dar es Salaam. I love showing people the city I grew up in ... the markets, the crafts, and the everyday life that makes Dar special.
My tours are fun, relaxed, and full of stories. I’ll show you the spots locals love, share some laughs, and make sure you get a real taste of the city.
Come hang out with me and see Dar through local eyes!
Reviews
Véronique H.
“Very nice and interesting”
I had the opportunity to meet some people who with interaction in Swahili language. Kevin helped me for understanding and translation. This tour is very fine for tourists who already know a few Swahili words, then want to learn more.
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Kevin A.
Asante sana! I really enjoyed spending time with you and practicing Swahili together. Keep using your Swahili, and next time we'll chat with even more locals. Karibu tena!
Shawn M.
“Half day around Dar es Salaam”
My wife and I had a great time going from site to site in Dar es Salaam with Kevin. Kevin was a great guide and I am very happy we chose a guide to show us around. We were able to take in a lot more of the city than if we tried to explore on our own.
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Kevin A.
Dar can move fast, but I think we kept up pretty well. Thanks for trusting me to show you around.. it was a great day.
Terri G.
“Wonderful time in Dar es salaam”
Kevin A was an awesome guide! It was full immersion of city culture. We truly enjoyed his tour and the information Kevin provided. He was well informed and very very nice!
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Kevin A.
Thank you so much, Terri! You and your husband were such a delight to spend time with—truly wonderful people. I really enjoyed our time together, and I’m so glad I could share those moments with you both. You’re always welcome back anytime for more laughs and good vibes!
$65/ per person
More tours by Kevin A.
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Dance class to night out
Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene and nightlife of Dar es Salaam with our exciting tour! Kick off the experience by mastering funky dance moves in a two-hour Afrobeats class led by expert instructors. Then, join us as we explore the city's hottest nightlife spots where you can showcase your dance skills and groove to the beat alongside the locals. From trendy clubs to hidden gems, get ready for a night to remember in Dar es Salaam's vibrant nightlife scene!
Dance class to night out
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Swahili in the Streets: Learn, Laugh & Speak Like a Local
Discover Dar es Salaam through its language. This isn't a classroom lesson—it's a walking experience where you'll learn useful Swahili phrases and immediately use them with local vendors, cafés, and friendly residents. By the end of the tour, you'll be greeting people, bargaining politely, ordering food, and understanding everyday expressions with confidence.
Swahili in the Streets: Learn, Laugh & Speak Like a Local
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Dar Es Salaam Local Markets Tour — Street Food, Fruits & Everyday City Life
Experience the real rhythm of Dar es Salaam through its vibrant local markets. Walk busy streets filled with tropical fruits, spices, street food, and everyday life. Taste local snacks, discover hidden corners, and meet the city's authentic culture beyond the tourist spots. Hear stories about local traditions, food, and daily life on this relaxed, energetic tour.
Dar Es Salaam Local Markets Tour — Street Food, Fruits & Everyday City Life
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