Dar es Salaam

Although Dar es Salaam is not the capital city of Tanzania, Dar remains the commercial capital and frequent arrival point for visitors to the southern parks and coast.

Dar es Salaam is the largest city and economic capital of Tanzania. Located in a quiet bay on the Indian Ocean coast, the city has developed in economic importance to become a prosperous hub in East Africa. Its bustling harbour is the main port in Tanzania.

During the German colonial period in the early 20th Century, Dar es Salaam was the centre for the colonial administration and the main contact point for trade and commerce between the mainland and the Indian Ocean. Remnants of the colonial presence, both German and British, can still be seen in the landmarks and architecture around the city. Numerous historical landmarks, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the White Father’s Mission House, the Botanical Gardens and the old State House make for an interesting walking tour around the waterfront and city centre.