Book Cheap Flights to Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam: a vibrant metropolis of bustling streets, interesting attractions, and eclectic cultures

Located on the east coast of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is one of Africa’s most important trading ports. It is a melting pot of African, Asian and European influences, attracting visitors to its historical landmarks, shimmering beaches and national wildlife year-round. Whether you’re en-route to Zanzibar or the Serengeti, this coastal city stop will delight and intrigue you.

Cheap flights to Dar es Salaam are now available for a limited time only, so book your flight today and experience the welcoming spirit and natural treasures this city has to offer! Dar es Salaam is home to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), a 35-minute drive from the city centre. DAR serves a multitude of airlines, including South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways. Direct flights to Dar es Salaam depart from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Flight duration from Johannesburg is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Popular flights to Dar es Salaam

Flight Route Airline Trip Type Travel Dates Searched Price From
* Please note that the prices are subject to availability and block out dates do apply over peak season.

Why visit Dar es Salaam

island hopping

Island Hopping

Set sail in a dhow along the calm, blue waters of the Indian Ocean, making your way to the surrounding islands of Bongoyo and Mbudya for a day of snorkelling, diving and relaxation.

beaches

Beaches

Grab your hat and sunglasses and head down to the popular beach spots to soak up the warm, African sun while sipping a refreshing coconut.

shopping

Shopping

Visit the distinctive Swahili marketplaces for an authentic shopping experience, where your sharp bargaining skills will land you some rare souvenirs and crafts.

General information

Essential details you need to know before your trip

Country Tanzania
Currency Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Exchange Rate 1 ZAR = 169.599 TZS
Language Swahili / English
Hub Airport Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Airline Air Tanzania
Time Zone GMT + 03:00
Travel Adaptor Type D / G

Best time to visit Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam welcomes visitors throughout the year. Many visitors use the city as a stop-over point en-route to the Serengeti and the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba. If you’re planning on taking advantage of the splendid white beaches, go during the dry season, between June and October. The clear skies, sapphire waters and warm sunshine make the city a hotspot at this time of year. Alternatively, take advantage of special rates and fewer crowds during the off-season, between March and May. During these months, heavy rains can be experienced from the early morning to late afternoon with bursts of sunshine.

Weather & Climate in Dar es Salaam

Average temperature (°C) & rainfall (mm) per month

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Low °C 25°C 24°C 24°C 23°C 22°C 20°C 19°C 19°C 19°C 20°C 22°C 24°C
High °C 31°C 32°C 32°C 31°C 30°C 29°C 29°C 29°C 29°C 29°C 31°C 31°C
Rainfall (mm) 68 77 141 251 169 33 28 23 28 57 118 96

Dar es Salaam, deemed ‘House of Peace’ in Arabic, is the political and financial hub of Tanzania. A walking tour around the city, will present you with its many influences, ranging from North African to South East Asian. This is evident in its historic buildings, bustling markets and diverse cuisine.

The picturesque harbours and unspoilt, sandy beaches set the scene for an idyllic holiday, while those in search of more active sightseeing can hike through the Pugu Hills or take a safari trip through Mikumi National Park. Island hopping is a great way to enjoy the pristine beaches and snorkelling spots. Divers will love exploring the marine life around Mbudya Marine Reserve and Bagamoyo, a stone’s throw from Zanzibar.

Culture enthusiasts can visit the Tanzania Centre for Cultural Heritage, the Village Museum and the many religious landmarks dotted around the city. The Askari Monument pays tribute to the fallen native soldiers of WW1. The 15th century Kunduchi Ruins are a little further north, along with Waterworld Amusement Park.

Don’t leave Dar es Salaam without purchasing a unique kanga or tinga-tinga painting. No matter how long your stay is, you’re bound to fall in love with the infectious energy and tranquil scenery of Dar es Salaam.

Compare several airlines and book your cheap flights to Dar es Salaam online at Travelstart!

South Africa passport holders do not require a visa for Tanzania for travel of up to 90 days. Ensure your South African passport has at least six months remaining on it from your return date and that you have at least three blank pages available for stamps.

The South African High Commission to Tanzania is in Dar es Salaam. Plot 1338 Mwaya Road, Masaki, Dar es Salaam. Phone: + 255 22 260 1800.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Tanzania. It is recommended to get vaccinated against Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Tetanus as food hygiene is sometimes poor and it is easy to pick up an infection or stomach bug. Malaria is highly prevalent in this region, so it is recommended to take medication before, during and after your stay. Mosquito nets and a strong insect repellent will definitely help to minimise the risk of being bitten. Use sunscreen and only drink BOTTLED water!

Dar es Salaam is a poor country and instances of petty crime are common, especially towards tourists. Violent crime is scarce, but beware of gangs operating on the outskirts of town. Walking and driving at night is strongly discouraged. Be aware of illicit trading on the black market, especially regarding currency exchange. Stick to authorized bureaus. Stay in groups when going out, especially at night where seedy nightclubs may be dangerous for naïve tourists. Do not carry visible valuables or stray too far from public spaces.

Item Cape Town Johannesburg Dar Es Salaam
Meal inexpensive restaurant R 90.00 R 100.00 R 50.00
Domestic beer (0.5 litre draught) R 22.00 R 20.00 R 14.00
Cappucino (regular) R 19.00 R 20.00 R 24.00
Taxi 1km (normal tariff) R 10.00 R 12.00 R 17.00
Packet of cigarettes (Marlboro) R 35.00 R 35.00 R 18.00

Depending on your purpose and duration of stay, Dar es Salaam has various accommodation options. Those on business travel may prefer to stay in the CBD, where you’ll find a variety of business hotels and conference centres. Those in search of more budget-friendly options can find a few hostels and lodges around the city centre, costing between 15 000 – 25 000 Tsh per night.

If waking up to the sounds of the ocean sounds like bliss, you’ll want to stay near Msasani Peninsula and Coco Beach, home to more upscale hotels and beach resorts. There are many selections along Haile Selassie Road.

Most hotels provide breakfast, but you’ll definitely want to explore lunch and dinner options elsewhere with a fusion of culinary delights around town. Zanaki Street is home to some popular restaurants and with an assortment of Ethiopian, Middle-Eastern, Asian and western cuisine to choose from, you’re guaranteed to satisfy any craving!

A good way to get around is by public buses called ‘daladalas’. Note that these buses can be crowded and slow, though at only 300 TZS for a trip, you may want to buckle up and embrace the wilder side of African transport. Bajajis are also popular modes of transport. These three-wheeled vehicles are cheaper than taxis and will take you around the sites and as far up the coast to Bagamoyo. Taxis are available, but it’s best to arrange a driver beforehand (especially at night to avoid walking around in search of one). If you plan on doing a day trip, it may be wise to hire a driver for the day.

There are many bus routes, departing from the centre of town. Speak to your hotel staff to find out about the best company for your route and to confirm prices.

Of course, the best way to explore a city is by walking around, but avoid walking around at night, especially if you’re on your own.

When heading back to the airport, make sure you leave way ahead of schedule, as traffic gets particularly congested between downtown and the airport, especially between 5 and 8pm.

Main attractions in Dar es Salaam

Bongoyo Island

Bongoyo Island

Open-air Village Museum

Open-air Village Museum

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

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