Solo female travel in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam, located by the sweeping Indian Ocean in eastern Tanzania, is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in East Africa. Brimming with a rich mix of cultures and historical influences, the city is recognized for its eclectic blend of African, Arab, Indian and German influences, resulting in a unique fusion of architecture, cuisine, and local arts. It is the launching pad to some of Tanzania's most renowned natural attractions: Mt. Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, and the Zanzibar Archipelago. Known for its bustling markets, especially Kariakoo, the city is a shopper's paradise. The Dar es Salaam National Museum, historic Askari Monument, and the Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society further enhance the experience, making Dar es Salaam a captivating destination on the African travel trail.

Travel rating

3.7 /5

Based on our research

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Is Dar es Salaam good for solo travel?

Safety:Safe

Dar es Salaam, like many other large cities, has areas that are safe and areas that are less safe. As a solo female traveler, always be aware of your surroundings, especially during the night or in less crowded places. It's advisable to avoid public transport at night and hire a reputable taxi instead. Dress modestly to respect the local culture which can also help avoid unwanted attention. Locals are generally friendly and helpful. Extra caution is required while handling personal belongings due to the risk of pickpocketing.

Transport:Moderate

Navigating around Dar es Salaam can be a moderate challenge. The city's public transport system is not fully structured and heavy traffic during peak hours can make movement slow. However, there's wide availability of local taxis and motorcycle taxis, and hiring a private driver is also an option. Fluent English speakers may not be prevalent among local transport operators, thus knowing a little Swahili can greatly help in communication. Also, careful navigation is suggested in less touristy areas which can be less safe, particularly at night.

Things to do:Interesting

Dar es Salaam has an abundance of activities to captivate solo travelers. Explore the city and experience its unique blend of cultures through its stunning architecture, including both modern and colonial structures. Engage with Tanzanian history and arts in the National Museum and House of Culture. Relax or picnic in the Botanical Gardens, or experience the vibrant heart of the city in the bustling Kivukoni Fish Market. A ferry trip to the nearby Bongoyo Island offers a tranquil break with beautiful beaches and hiking trails. However, remember that the city does have a busy and chaotic vibe, which may not suit everyone.

Food:Above average

The food options in Dar es Salaam are diverse and intriguing. Both local and international cuisines are widely available. The variety extends from traditional Tanzanian dishes like ugali and nyama choma, to a vast array of seafood, Indian, and swahili foods influenced by the city's multicultural history. Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant, and street food ventures offer an authentic experience. Many eateries also cater to different dietary requirements like vegan or gluten-free. However, it's always recommended to check the hygiene standards before indulging.

Budget:Affordable

Dar es Salaam can be considered a fairly budget-friendly destination, especially if compared to other locations in Africa. Accommodation can be found at reasonable prices, particularly for basic hostels and guesthouses. Street food and local restaurants can offer fulfilling meals without breaking the bank. Transportation like local buses and Bajaj (auto-rickshaw) are quite affordable. Activities and local sightseeing are generally not expensive unless you decide to partake in high-end tourist experiences. The most expensive factor would be wildlife safaris, which are a significant attraction in Tanzania.

Is Dar es Salaam worth visiting?

Solo travel experience

I felt safe, but the language barrier was serious, as almost everyone spoke Swahili, including Uber drivers. I stayed in two Airbnb apartments and visited downtown Dar es Salam alone, where I also felt safe. I did not experience any harassment or anything of that sort. I didn't like Dar, as there really wasn't much to do, and the women were very hostile, which combined with the language barrier, made me feel really frustrated. I always had to have cash on me, as most places did not accept credit or debit cards.

Posted: December 10, 2022

Things to do: 1/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5

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