Top 3 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Photo by Peter Mitchell on Unsplash

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is one of Africa’s most underrated tourist destinations. The city is often considered a short stop to the country’s popular attractions, but visitors often end up being charmed by its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lively markets.

If you are passing through Dar es Salaam at any point of your journey in Tanzania, make sure to take some time and check out one of the following tourist attractions.

National Museum and House of Culture

Originally a memorial museum dedicated to King George V, the National Museum and House of Culture now focuses on preserving and showcasing the history of Tanzania. Here you’ll see bones of Paranthropus boisei, primates who lived 2 million years ago, an exhibit dedicated to the Shirazi city-state of Kilwa, and various items from colonial times.

Village Museum

Village Museum is dedicated to various Tanzanian tribes and their cultural and architectural heritage. The museum consists of 16 authentic wooden huts and houses built in different styles. It also showcases a number of tools and items belonging to different ethnical groups in Tanzania.

Bongoyo Island

Part of Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve, uninhabited Bongoyo Island is situated a short boat ride from the city. It is popular among tourists because of its pristine beaches, untouched nature, and perfect conditions for water activities like snorkeling.