Experience in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania by Achilles

What is it like to live in Dar Es Salaam? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Dar es Salaam is one of the best cities in Africa to live in. Dar es Salaam or shortly called Dar is Business City of Tanzania (The Capital City is Dodoma) is a port city along the Indian Ocean. Its name is drawn from the Kiswahili words Bandari ya Salama - The port of peace. So, like in any other parts of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam you will enjoy peace. The Tanzanians are welcoming and polite people. You will enjoy the beach views, almost flat terrain and easy transport using Fast Cars and mini buses commonly know us Daladala. Transport can be hectic during pick hours - morning and evening. Since it is a Tropical port you can expect hot weather. You will very few days to put on heavy clothes.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dar Es Salaam?

Dar es Salaam has several Universities with University of Dar es Salaam as the biggest university in the region. Education and life in general is cheaper in Dar compared to other East African cities.

How much does it cost to live in Dar Es Salaam?

Life is cheaper in Dar compared to other East African cities. A well furnished simple room can be rented at euro 15 a month. With 5 euro you can have your breakfast lunch and dinner.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dar Es Salaam? Is there any advice you can give?

Many universities in Dar and indeed in Tanzania provide hostels for their students. However a few who would like to live in apartments outside the campus can easily find them. But I would advise to have your accommodation in the university hostels.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

In Dar you will enjoy all kinds of fish; you will enjoy foods like rice, stiff porridge called Ugali, traditional foods but still there are restaurants that offer special dishes to foreigners.

What places would you recommend visiting in Dar Es Salaam?

You would like to visit the beaches especially the Coco Beach, Kunduchi Wet and Wild Park, Fun City Kigamboni, Bahari Zoo etc.

Is it good to eat out in Dar Es Salaam? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

You will enjoy many places like Addis in Dar 305 Karafuu Restaurant, Cook in the City, Cape Town Fish Market

What advice would you give future students heading to Dar Es Salaam?

They have found a good and peaceful place to study