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Flights to Dar es Salaam with Most Searches on Etihad
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A magical city by the sea
Book flights to Dar es Salaam and embark on an adventure through Tanzania’s largest and most exciting destination.
This once sleepy fishing town retains many of its traditions – a walk along the harbourfront will give you a glimpse into the customs and trades that built this amazing city.
Breathe in the ocean air, and watch the fishing boats drift in from the bay for the morning markets. Locals and restaurant owners bid for the freshest seafood, and it’s no surprise, given the quality of this produce.
Head to the craft markets and take in the vibrant sounds, sights and dazzling colours of East Africa. Take a short stroll, and you’ll discover eclectic architecture drawing from Dar Es Salaam’s African, Indian, Arabian and German roots.
Mbudya Island is also a renowned attraction. As the turquoise sea laps against the white sandy shore, soak up the tranquillity of this uninhabited paradise barely 20 minutes away from the city.
Then there are the nearby nature reserves and safari possibilities. When you fly to Dar es Salaam you’ll discover a seaside jewel with an enticing soul.
What's the weather like in Dar es Salaam?
Average temperature Average rainfall
JAN
29°C
7cm
FEB
28°C
6cm
MAR
28°C
13cm
APR
27°C
28cm
MAY
26°C
18cm
JUN
25°C
3cm
JUL
25°C
3cm
AUG
25°C
3cm
SEP
25°C
3cm
OCT
26°C
4cm
NOV
27°C
8cm
DEC
28°C
9cm
Dar es Salaam boasts year-round warm temperatures, averaging around 25°C.
Book Dar es Salaam plane tickets from June to November and you can expect weather that’s a bit cooler than the peak highs, but still warm enough for sightseeing and safari trips.
The rainy season lasts from March to May, with showers generally hitting in the afternoon.
All year round, a cool, refreshing breeze drifts in from the sea after nightfall – nothing a light evening jacket won’t solve.
Reasons to visit Dar es Salaam
The Village Museum
After you fly to Dar es Salaam, take a short journey north to visit Kijiji cha Makumbusho, or the Village Museum – an authentic replica of traditional Tanzanian village dwellings and huts.
Wander through tribal homesteads and discover hundreds of local artefacts, including pottery, weavings and carvings. Learn how the tribes of Tanzania lived in harmony with the surrounding land and animals with a guided tour through Dar es Salaam’s rural past.
Take a boat trip to paradise
Retreat to Mbudya Island – a paradise only 15 minutes away from Dar es Salaam by boat. This tranquil spot feels like a world away from everything. Lay back on the smooth sand, take a dip in the clear ocean, or go snorkelling to see schools of exotic fish up close.
Your island getaway wouldn’t be complete without a bite to eat. Find freshly barbecued seafood at one of the stalls along the beachfront.
Kivukoni Fish Market
No trip would be complete without seeing the harbour fish markets – a vital trade hub and meeting place for hundreds of years. Arrive early and watch the fisherman auction off their catches of the day. Bartering is par for the course, but you’ll need sharp skills and wits to compete with the locals.
A more relaxing option is to sit back, observe from the fringes, and sample the delicious shrimp, squid and octopus available from nearby restaurants and stalls.
Things to know before you fly to Dar es Salaam
Cultural considerations
Tanzania is a traditional country, so it is worth considering local customs.
Visitors should dress modestly when in public, with arms and legs covered. Swimsuits should only be worn around the beach or pool.
Getting around
Local buses serve most of the city. Fares are good value, but the buses can get busy during rush hour.
Kigamboni Ferry runs between Kivukoni Front and Kigamboni, and is a great way to reach the southern beaches. The ferry is available seven days a week from early morning until late evening.
Transfers from the airport
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is seven miles (12 kilometres) from the city centre. Arrange an airport transfer with Etihad in advance to travel in comfort – with your driver waiting on arrival.
Alternatively, taxis are available. It is best to agree on a set price before departing.
Local cuisine
Food in Dar es Salaam is typically Tanzanian: a fusion of East African, Indian and Middle Eastern.
The local cuisine is especially inspired by the coast, with spicy seafood popular, often softened with coconut milk. Nyama choma is a favourite national dish – grilled meat typically served with salad.
Flying to Dar es Salaam: FAQs
How long should I spend in Dar Es Salaam?
Dar Es Salaam’s local attractions make it perfect for a relaxing stay of at least four or five days if you are planning a city break.
However, many people also use it as a base for island hopping, safaris and other day trips, or for exploring the wider beauty of Tanzania. You may therefore choose to stay for a week or longer.
What is Dar es Salaam known for?
This coastal city is famous for its beaches, fishing ports, local markets, and a diverse mix of cultures.
Dar es Salaam brims with activity from morning until late at night – there are lots of museums, nature reserves, botanical gardens and waterparks around the city centre.
What does Dar es Salaam mean?
Dar es Salaam is Arabic for “Abode of Peace” or the “Peaceful Place.”
While it has grown into a vibrant city, one glance over the calming seaport and its surrounding islands tells you why it earned such a romantic name.
Is Dar es Salaam the capital of Tanzania?
Dar es Salaam was the capital of Tanzania until 1974, when capital status was transferred to Dodoma.
It is still the country’s largest and most populated city and continues to be a hub for arts, culture, entertainment, finance and tourist adventures in Tanzania.
Why we love Dar es Salaam
“Dar es Salaam has everything any traveller would want from a holiday - beautiful beaches, lots of markets selling local products, and an array of great restaurants. Mbudya Island is unmissable - a picture-perfect paradise just north of the city.”