Visit These Top Cities In Tanzania Before Or After Your Safari

Tanzania is renowned for its safari offerings, including the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti. However, some travelers overlook the African country’s cities, which also have much to offer in the way of history, culture and cuisine. When heading to Tanzania on safari, make sure to visit these three cities before or after your trip into the African bush.

1. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is the second-largest port in East Africa and is located on the Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania. The city had humble beginnings as a small Zaramo fishing village but has since developed into a major destination with fascinating attractions.

Tanzanian history & culture

History buffs will appreciate a visit to the National Museum and House of Culture in Dar es Salaam which has several history exhibits. Of particular interest are fossils of human ancestors that were discovered by famous anthropologist Louis Leakey.

However, the museum also hosts an open-air Village Museum where people can learn about the Tanzanian people. Among its exhibits are re-created traditional homes of the various Tanzanian tribes, which host spectacular tribal dancing displays.

Exploring nature in Dar es Salaam

Just off the coast of the city, the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve spreads over four uninhabited islands, Fungu Yasini, Bongoyo, Pangavini and Mbudya. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy Bongoyo and Mbudya, as both these islands feature facilities for visitors, as well as beautiful beaches.

Dhow trips in Tanzania

A fun excursion from Kipepeo Beach in Dar es Salaam takes visitors to Sinda Island on a traditional dhow. Meanwhile, they sail close to the edge of the coral reefs, allowing for a scuba diving or snorkeling adventure or fishing trip, or a gorgeous sunset cruise.

Art Garage Tanzania in Dar es Salaam

Anyone with a quirky sense of fun and art will enjoy a visit to the Art Garage Tanzania, where disabled artists create candles, jewelry, sculptures and other craft items using recycled glass, metal, car parts or anything else they can get their hands on. Artworks can be purchased and are ideal to take home as fun souvenirs.

2. Arusha, Tanzania

Our next stop is Arusha, which is known as a gateway to many adventures in Tanzania. From here, it is easy to access the national parks to the north, including the Tarangire National Park and Arusha National Park. The former is a three-hour drive from the city, while the other is only a 30-minute drive from Arusha.

Meanwhile, the city itself has plenty to offer, including excellent hotels and dining. Moreover, Arusha enjoys a temperate climate all year round, making for a comfortable visit. For anyone who hasn’t yet booked a safari trip, tour operators are available on Boma Road and at the bus stations, offering safari trips and souvenirs to take home.

3. Zanzibar City & Stone Town

Heading to Zanzibar and its main city, a trip to the old city of Stone Town is a worthy visit, with its attractive colonial and historic buildings and places. There is even an old Anglican church which used to be a slave market.

However, a major attraction in Stone Town is Mercury House, where the late Queen vocalist, Freddie Mercury is said to have spent some of his childhood. Moreover, the town offers a Sultan’s palace and a historic Portuguese fort.

For those keen on sports, Zanzibar offers tours catering for solo flying or in-tandem parasailing. These offer visitors amazing views of the city from the air. Another attraction is Prison Island, which hosts giant tortoises. Moreover, this is said to be one of the best places in Tanzania to snorkel or scuba dive among the tropical fish and colorful coral.

Visit the cities of Tanzania or your next vacation, incorporating a safari adventure and city break all in one.