Day Trips From Dar es Salaam: Islands, Beaches, History and Wildlife Within Reach

Most travellers use Dar es Salaam as a transit point for flights and ferries, but the city also has beaches, markets, museums and quick boat rides to small islands. With good timing, a day trip can turn an overnight stop into a memorable break.

This page lists excursions rather than the city itself. See the Dar es Salaam guide for the city's sights and the Dar es Salaam where to stay guide for areas to base yourself.

This guide is part of our Uganda districts and towns guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Bongoyo and Mbudya Islands

Short boat rides from the Msasani peninsula reach small islands with sandy beaches, clear water for swimming and snorkelling, and simple places to eat. They suit families, couples and anyone wanting a relaxed half-day. Boats depart from a nearby jetty, and returning times depend on the tide and the operator, so confirm before you leave. Read the Bongoyo and Mbudya islands guide for details.

Dar es Salaam is a working port city, and the best day trips are those that get you out of the traffic and onto the water or the coast road. Start early, because the heat builds and the roads fill up as the morning goes on, and agree your return time with the driver or boatman before you set off.

Kigamboni Beaches

Across the harbour mouth from the city centre, the Kigamboni peninsula has beach stretches reached by a short ferry or by road. It is popular with residents at weekends and quieter on weekdays. Beaches here suit a lazy lunch and a swim. See the Kigamboni beaches guide for what to expect and how to reach them.

Bagamoyo

North of Dar es Salaam, the old coastal town of Bagamoyo has a long history as a trading port, with historic buildings, ruins and a quiet beach. It suits travellers interested in history and architecture. Allow a full day for the drive and the visit. Read the Bagamoyo history guide and the Bagamoyo beach guide to decide whether to go for the history, the sea or both.

Art, Markets and Museums

In the city itself you can browse markets, craft stalls and galleries, and visit museums that explain the country's past. Tingatinga painting, named after its founder, is a distinctive Tanzanian style that is easy to find in Dar es Salaam. See the Tingatinga art guide before you shop. Go with a local guide to busy markets and keep valuables secure.

If you only have a few hours, a drive along the Msasani peninsula to a craft market, a seafood lunch beside the water and a stroll at sunset is a pleasant way to see the city at an easy pace, and it needs no complicated planning beyond a trusted taxi.

Saadani National Park

Saadani is one of the few places where bush meets beach, and it is reachable from Dar es Salaam by road or small plane. It is best treated as an overnight trip, though a long day is possible if time is short. See the Dar es Salaam to Saadani route and the Saadani wildlife guide for what to expect.

Combining With Onward Travel

If you are heading to Zanzibar, a morning ferry or flight leaves the afternoon free for a short island trip or a visit to the city's sights. The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar route explains the crossing. Traffic in the city can be heavy, so allow extra time to reach jetties and the airport.

Practical Tips

Dar es Salaam is hot and humid, so carry sun protection, a hat and water. Dress modestly away from the beach. Use registered taxis or hotel transport, and confirm timings with your host. For advice on travel safety see the Tanzania travel guide.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team