Though often overlooked for its neighboring island-city, Zanzibar, Tanzania’s largest city and port Dar es Salaam is definitely worth a visit. It is one of the fastest growing cities in Africa, and has as much history and culture as it does interesting sights and photo-worthy locations.
Here are six Instagrammable spots in the City of Peace.
National Museum and House of Culture
Tanzania’s National Museum and House of Culture houses a large collection of Tanzanian historical art and artifacts. Visitors can learn about the culture and history of Tanzania through the exhibition of photographs, sculptures, furnishings, prehistoric tools, human and animal bones, and more all on display in the museum. Guests can also admire and pose with a collection of vehicles that once belonged to Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Tanzania’s first president.
Port of Dar es Salaam
The Port of Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest and most important port, handling over 90% of the country’s incoming and outbound cargo. The city’s bustling port also serves as the terminal where travelers can board the ferry to the island of Zanzibar. With its many maritime vessels, the port serves as an ideal backdrop for nautical photos and the Dar es Salaam city skyline, which includes its trademark PSPF Commercial Twin Towers.
Ahlan Restaurant
Dar es Salaam’s Masaki neighborhood is where you’ll find one of the prettiest restaurants in the city. Ahlan Restaurant is a favorite for locals and visitors hoping to snap a shot against their pink, red, and white rose wall. The restaurant is filled with classy pink and gold decor, from its marble tables and plush pink velvet chairs, to its blush-colored ceramic teacups and shining gold utensils. The food is equally appealing, with a menu featuring delicious Tanzanian, Indian, and American fare, as well as a selection of coffees, shakes, frappés, and mocktails.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of Dar’s most popular tourist attractions. Constructed by Germans between 1897 and 1902, the Catholic Church is located in the city center, overlooking the Harbor of Dar es Salaam and the Indian Ocean. Outside of times of worship, the cathedral is open to the public and welcoming of anyone who comes to pray or admire its striking Gothic revival architecture.
Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society
The Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society is a group of hundreds of skilled artists. You can watch these talented painters at work and admire their artwork. The society is named for the style of painting most commonly used and taught there, which was created by Edward Said Tingatinga. Visitors are welcome to take photos of the artists and their work. Just make sure to show your support by purchasing some amazing authentic African art to take home. You’ll be supporting the locals, as the money goes directly to them.
"I ♥ Dar" Sign at Elements Restaurant and Lounge
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Oyster Bay’s Elements Restaurant and Lounge is where you’ll find some of the best nightlife and music Dar es Salaam has to offer. By day, it is relatively quiet, serving tasty international cuisine in an upscale atmosphere. At night, the hotspot comes to life and the dance floor becomes packed as the crowd vibes to a DJ spinning or performances by some of Africa’s biggest music stars. In front of Elements is also where you’ll find the enormous “I ♥ Dar” sign.