Hotels in Dar es Salaam

Serenading Shores: A Journey Through Dar es Salaam's Coastal Charms and Cultural Treasures

Discover Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s vibrant coastal gem where the Indian Ocean meets rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the palm-fringed beaches, basking in the sun, or explore the bustling markets filled with colourful crafts and tantalising street food. Marvel at historical monuments like the National Museum and the stunning Askari Monument. For nature lovers, nearby islands such as Bongoyo offer serene escapes and snorkelling adventures. With its blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Dar es Salaam is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience by the sea. For great hotel rates in Dar es Salaam, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Dar es Salaam

Some of the best places to stay in Dar es Salaam are Masaki, Oyster Bay and Mbezi Beach. Dar es Salaam offers vibrant areas like Masaki, Oyster Bay, and Mbezi Beach, each appealing for different reasons. Masaki and Oyster Bay are popular for their lively atmosphere, restaurants, and beachfront access, making them ideal for first-time visitors. Mbezi Beach provides a more tranquil setting. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to mid-range options and guesthouses, catering to all budgets. Whether seeking a lively stay or serene relaxation, each area has a suitable hotel to enhance your visit. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Dar es Salaam:

1. MasakiOpens in a new window: Masaki is a vibrant area in Dar es Salaam, ideal for beach lovers and business travellers alike. With attractions such as Coco Beach and Mbezi Beach, visitors can enjoy the sun and sand while also having access to the Julius Nyerere International Conference Centre for business needs. The hotels in this area include Golden Tulip Dar Es SalaamOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel suited for business and family vacations, offering conference facilities and childcare services. Hotel SlipwayOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, features direct beach access and an on-site casino, perfect for adventure seekers. Lastly, Sea Cliff HotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel, combines business amenities with a beachfront experience, making it a top choice for upscale travellers.
2. Oyster BayOpens in a new window: Oyster Bay is a desirable area for business travellers and families, with a mix of cultural and recreational attractions like Coco Beach and Makumbusho Village. The hotels here include Peninsula Hotel Dar es SalaamOpens in a new window, a 4-star property that offers extensive business facilities and a full spa service, ensuring relaxation after a busy day. Protea Hotel by Marriott Dar es Salaam Oyster BayOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, provides a variety of dining options and fitness facilities for guests looking to stay active. Protea Hotel by Marriott Dar es Salaam Oyster BayOpens in a new window, another 4-star hotel, caters to business and family needs, featuring multiple meeting rooms and child-friendly amenities.
3. Mbezi BeachOpens in a new window: Mbezi Beach is a popular destination for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and adventure activities, with beautiful beaches and proximity to the University of Dar es Salaam. The area has several noteworthy hotels, such as Jangwani Sea Breeze ResortOpens in a new window, a 4-star resort that provides direct beach access and various adventure sport options. LandMark Mbezi Beach ResortOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, is family-friendly, offering amenities for children and business facilities. Lastly, Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dar es SalaamOpens in a new window, another 4-star hotel, combines beach access with comprehensive business services, making it a great choice for both leisure and work.

Things to do in Dar es Salaam for first times

Three days in Dar es Salaam offers an enticing mix of stunning beaches, vibrant parks, and coastal activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, biking along scenic routes, and dancing to local rhythms, all while soaking in the city’s rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking natural landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Dar es Salaam:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Mbezi Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline perfect for sunbathing and swimming. After soaking up the sun, make your way to Nafasi Art Space, where you can explore contemporary Tanzanian art and perhaps even engage with local artists. Conclude your day at Msasani Bay Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the shore, taking in the stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
• Day 2: Start your day at the lively Coco Beach, a popular spot for both locals and tourists, where you can indulge in a refreshing swim or enjoy some beachside snacks. Next, head to Makumbusho Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Tanzanian culture and crafts. Wrap up your day at Nyumba ya Sanaa, a creative hub where you can enjoy live performances and perhaps purchase unique handicrafts to take home as souvenirs.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Bahari Beach, a serene location ideal for a relaxing swim or a leisurely stroll along the water. Then, venture to Kijiji Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local eateries where you can savour fresh seafood. End your beach-hopping day at Jangwani Beach, a tranquil spot perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your wonderful travels, with the sound of waves as your backdrop.

4 tips to find a great Dar es Salaam hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Dar es Salaam is during April, May, and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure better deals. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least one month ahead for budget-friendly prices. To fully appreciate the main attractions, which include stunning beaches and historical monuments, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. This allows you to enjoy great value for money while exploring the vibrant culture and scenery of Dar es Salaam.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Dar es Salaam, Hotels.com is a great resource to explore. To uncover potential discounts, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website, where you might find reduced rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to seize any opportunities for savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Dar es Salaam.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodations on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 75.6°F (24.2°C), while March is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.0°F (27.8°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Dar es Salaam are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to moderate rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.