A big town-a vibrant
hub of activity
Dar-es-Salaam
is the largest city and the political and economic
capital of Tanzania. Located in a quiet bay off the
Indian Ocean coast, the city has grown in economic
importance to become a prosperous centre of the entire
East African region. Its bustling harbour is the main
port in Tanzania. It’s industrial area produces products
for export and use throughout the country. Government
offices all have their main base in Dar-es-Salaam, and
diplomatic missions and non-governmental organisations
in the country all have a presence in the bustling urban
city.
A busy city
Dar-es-Salaam,
once called "Mzizima" (which means the healthy town), is
an old city dating as early as 1857. Though the history
of Mzizima went beyond 1,000 years when the Barawa
people (who then mingled with Zaramo to become among
them) started to settle and cultivate the area around
Mbwa Maji, Magogoni (now Kivukoni) Mjimwema, Gezaulole
and Kibonde Maji Mbagara.
The city has seen major changes dating from the
influences of the Sultanates to the Germans and the
British. The name Dar-es-Salaam means heaven of
peace,
a name chosen by Sultan Seyyid Majid of Zanzibar. The
city started as a fishing village in the mid19th Century
before being turned to a port and a trading center.
Dar-es-Salaam
is the commercial capital city of the country, it
wields immense political and economical power. The
atmosphere is pleasant in the city with picturesque
harbour, exotic beaches, and historical buildings such
as state house, Ocean Road hospital and churches, as
well as the most famous sculpture of Askari Monument. It
is a city renowned for its lively nightlife.
Most
of the official buildings can be found here, including
State House, the former House of Tanzania's National
Parliament and government ministries are all located in
the city. It is also the place where most diplomatic
missions are located. Most of the local and
international hotels, such as Royal Palm Hotel,
Holiday Inn, Golden Tulip, Embassy, New Africa, Ras
Kutani, white Sand, Sea Cliff, Jangwani Sea Breeze and
Peacock.
The city is the country's major international and local
gateway. The main
international
airport (Dar-es-Salaam International Airport) which
serves considerable number of local and international
flights, Two Major train stations and Main Bus Station
for all inter-regional or inter-national buses. as well
as main port for cargo and passengers. The Dar-es-Salaam
Airport is about 13 kilometers from the city center.
There is a City Tour daily to National Museum,
Historical Building and Kariakoo Market
Places to visit
Remnants of colonial presence, both German and British,
can still be seen in the landmarks and architecture
around the city. The National Museum, the Village
Museum, and many colourful markets are well worth a
visit. Numerous s 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.
Bongoyo
island marine reserve
Seven kilometers north of the city, to Bongoyo Island
Marine Reserve offers good snorkeling and diving sites
for those who want to explore the water. The reserve
boasts beautiful beaches, secluded islands, and many
varieties of marine species. Although the variety and
population of coral and fish species are not as numerous
as other sites on Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Island, the
Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve is well worth a visit and
is a great way to spend a day out and see the coast.
