Beach Holidays in Zanzibar vs City Holidays in Dar es Salaam

Beach Holidays in Zanzibar vs City Holidays in Dar es Salaam

Discover one of Tanzania’s most pristine landscapes, Zanzibar. Zanzibar is an archipelago comprising of many islands and islets but the main island Unguja is known normally as Zanzibar. It is a great place to visit.

 

Beach holidays in Zanzibar

It’s not for nothing that Zanzibar is referred to as “spice islands.” It was a major port for spice trade and spices are a part of life even today. Its paradise beaches are a magnet for many tourists seeking a quiet holiday destination after a gruelling trip in mainland Tanzania viewing game in the Serengeti or after climbing mountains Kilimanjaro and Meru.

The palm trees, sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean compete to offer snorkelling, diving, swimming and fishing opportunities. The temperature of the region hovers around 28 degrees all year round.

If you tire of water activities, then you can stroll through the adjoining areas and watch local women picking seaweed, the fishing shows or the magnificent sunset skies that transform the ocean waters into one substantial golden painting.

 

City holidays in Dar es Salaam

If you’re looking for a charming East African city to go on holiday, then why not choose a city that was once the preferred city for a Sultan?

Dar es Salaam, the largest city on the Tanzanian coastline, is the country’s capital of culture, combining stunning holiday resorts, beachfront, commerce and a vibrant nightlife. If a ruling Sultan once found Dar es Salaam irresistible, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t.

As soon as you land in the city head straight to the National Museum to get your grip on this metropolis of over 3 million people. After you’ve had your fill of contemporary art and vintage cars, you can photograph Nutcracker Man, a famous fossil discovered by Richard Leakey. The Museum, much like Tanzania itself, has plenty to offer.

Next, you can hit the beaches by heading to the Slipway and hopping onto a motorised dhow or boat for a trip to Bongoyo Island. You can opt to swim, dive, snorkel or choose to explore the many cafes offering sumptuous lunches. If you love seagulls, you’ll have a field day chasing them along the Bongoyo island beaches as they drop to pick fish and chips leftovers.

If you’re a lone traveller, you can try one of the many car hire options for a solo tour of Dar es Salaam.

 

Dining and nightlife

Dar es Salaam cuisine, a blend of cultural influences provides a clear snapshot of Tanzanian society. Dining out in Dar is never complete without a visit to one of the listed spots:

  • 305 Karafuu
  • Mediterraneo
  • Mamboz Corner BBQ
  • Chef’s price
  • Karambezi Cafe
  • Samaki Samaki
  • Sawasdee
  • Addis in Dar
  • Chappan Bogg
  • George and Dragon

Nightlife in Dar is exhilarating. Generally, the clubs on the city’s peripheries attract Tanzanian nationals while those in central Dar es Salaam attract westerners. Popular clubs include:

  • Bilicanas
  • Q Bar
  • Oyster Bay
  • California Dreamer
  • Mambo Club
  • Sugar Rays
  • Maisha club and
  • Slipway

Also Check Our Previous Article Zanzibar’s Street Markets