What Are the Key Facts Related to Living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania?

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania is the largest and most populous city in the country. Located on the eastern coast of Africa, the city is often called “The Pearl of Africa” for its beauty and vibrant culture. As of 2019, more than 4 million people live in Dar es Salaam, and this number is expected to climb even higher in the future. In this guide, we will explore some of the key facts related to living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Location

Dar es Salaam is located in the coastal region of Tanzania on the East African coast. It is strategically positioned between the Swahili Coast and the border of Uganda. Dar is also part of a region of sub-Saharan Africa known as East Africa. The city is approximately 50 km south of the equator and measures 196 square kilometres in total land area. The city’s natural harbour ensures a strong connection to the Indian Ocean and provides a sheltered port for ships travelling in and out of the city.

Climate

The climate in Dar es Salaam is tropical and humid, but cooler than many other parts of Tanzania due to its coastal location. Temperatures range from hot and humid throughout most of the year with an average high of 30 °C (85 °F). It is also relatively dry in comparison to other parts of the country with average rainfall of about 1,200 millimetres (47 inches) annually. The region sees two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The wet season runs from November to April with thunderstorms and heavy downpours occurring occasionally during this period. The dry season remains dry until September when showers may occur towards the end of the season.

Culture

Dar es Salaam is a truly cosmopolitan city, home to people from all around East Africa, as well as immigrants from South Asia and even Europe. Swahili is the city’s main language, although English is widely spoken in business circles. It is also a highly diverse religious city with people belonging to Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and other faiths.

The strong culture of Dar es Salaam is reflected in its lively festivals and bustling markets where locals and visitors can purchase all sorts of crafts, art, food items, household items, and more! From jazz festivals to seafood festivals and carnivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

Transportation

The public transportation system in Dar es Salaam is developing rapidly and includes buses and mini-buses called “daladala”, which are the most popular form of public transport. Taxis are also available, although they can sometimes be hard to find during peak hours, so it’s important to plan ahead when travelling around the city.

Another option for those who wish to explore Dar es Salaam further are bicycle taxis called “bodaboda”. This popular form of transport is usually cheaper than using other methods and allows riders to explore the city at their own pace.

For those looking for a faster way to get around, Uber and Bolt (formerly Taxify) taxi services are available throughout the city. Uber boasts an extensive fleet in Dar es Salaam and provides a reliable way to get around the city quickly and easily.

Safety

As with any destination, it’s important to take extra precautions when travelling in Dar es Salaam. It is advised to avoid walking around at night since crime can be prevalent in certain areas; instead, opt for taking taxis and other forms of transport if you must move around after dark. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and take precautions such as storing valuables away from prying eyes or carrying a minimum amount of money with you on any outings.

In addition to street crime, visitors should also be aware of potential health risks while staying in Dar es Salaam. Due to its tropical climate, it’s important to take precautions such as using insect repellent as well as avoiding foods such as raw fruits or vegetables that may not have been cooked properly. Vaccinations should also be double-checked before coming to Dar so that you’re not needlessly exposed to any preventable illnesses during your stay.

Conclusion

Dar es Salaam is an incredibly vibrant and diverse city which offers an exciting mix of culture and experiences for those who visit it. There are plenty of fascinating places to explore, from its stunning beaches to its lively markets and bustling festivals. Despite being relatively safe overall, travellers should exercise common precautions when journeying around the city in order to make sure their stay goes smoothly. For more information about living in Dar es Salaam, check out CNN’s guide on all they best things to do while living there!