Best family-friendly hotels in Dar es Salaam

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Accommodation in Dar es Salaam? Tips for a perfect stay 2025 / 2026

Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania, located on the shore of the Indian Ocean, represents a blend of rich cultural heritage and modern urban life. As the main economic center of the country, the city offers diverse opportunities for business travelers as well as for tourists eager to discover African culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty.

When planning a trip to Dar es Salaam, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a pleasant stay. The city is full of diverse options, from luxury hotels to more affordable yet equally comfortable accommodations. Below, we present our recommendations for your ideal accommodation in Dar es Salaam.

Our recommendation for your ideal accommodation

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Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel

Luxury hotel with a view of the Indian Ocean, offering top-notch service and comfort.
Location: Kivukoni, near a golf club and the city center.
Reasons for recommendation: Excellent location, superior service, and a rich array of amenities.
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa center, fitness center, restaurants with international cuisine.
Rating: ★★★★★
According to the latest information, room rates start at €216 per night.

Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro

Modern hotel with a panoramic view of the harbor, ideal for business travelers and tourists.
Location: Kivukoni, near the ferry terminal for Zanzibar.
Reasons for recommendation: Contemporary design, excellent service, and proximity to key attractions.
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa center, fitness center, restaurants, and bars.
Rating: ★★★★★
Room rates start at €225 per night.

Sea Cliff Hotel

Elegant hotel situated on a cliff with an ocean view, providing a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
Location: Masaki, near a shopping center and restaurants.
Reasons for recommendation: Stunning view, peaceful location, and quality service.
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa center, fitness center, casino, restaurants.
Rating: ★★★★
According to guest reviews, the hotel offers excellent value for money, with rates at €200 per night.

Hotel Slipway

Seafront hotel with access to a shopping center and various amenities, ideal for tourists and business travelers.
Location: Msasani Peninsula, on the coast.
Reasons for recommendation: Proximity to the sea, shopping center, and restaurants.
Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, spa services, restaurants, shops.
Rating: ★★★★
Guests praise the friendly staff and cleanliness, with rates at €130 per night.

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Protea Hotel by Marriott Dar es Salaam Courtyard

Charming hotel with colonial flair, offering comfort and proximity to city attractions.
Location: Kivukoni, near the National Museum.
Reasons for recommendation: Historic ambiance, comfort, and proximity to cultural landmarks.
Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, free Wi-Fi.
Rating: ★★★
Room rates start at €168 per night.

Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam City Center Hotel

Modern hotel located in the very heart of the city, offering a beautiful panoramic view of Dar es Salaam.
Location: Central business district, near major shopping centers and restaurants.
Reasons for recommendation: Excellent connectivity, comfortable accommodation, and quality service.
Amenities: Restaurant, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms.
Rating: ★★★★
According to the latest reviews, the hotel is popular for its affordable rates and central location. Room rates start at €91.

Johari Rotana

A top-notch hotel that combines luxury and contemporary design, providing an exceptional stay experience.
Location: Kisutu, near the business district and main attractions.
Reasons for recommendation: Spacious rooms, excellent gastronomic offerings, and top amenities.
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa center, fitness center, restaurant with international cuisine, bar, conference rooms.
Rating: ★★★★★
Recent reviews highlight exceptional service and comfort, with room rates starting at €245 per night.

CBD Hotel

Affordable hotel providing comfortable accommodation near key city attractions.
Location: Central business district, a few minutes' walk from Kariakoo market.
Reasons for recommendation: Affordable price, easy access to transportation, proximity to shopping centers.
Amenities: Free breakfast, air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant.
Rating: ★★★
Reviews praise the cleanliness and friendliness of the staff, with room rates starting at €45 per night.

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Hotel Blue Sapphire

A compact and elegant hotel with all the basic amenities for a pleasant stay.
Location: Buguruni, easily accessible from the city center.
Reasons for recommendation: Affordable price, cleanliness, security, and friendly service.
Amenities: Breakfast included, restaurant, free parking, transportation service.
Rating: ★★★
Room rates start at €55, and guests emphasize practicality and comfort.

Dar es Salaam offers a variety of accommodation options for all types of travelers – from luxury seafront hotels to more affordable hotels and apartments in the city center. When choosing accommodation, it is important to consider the location, proximity to attractions, and available amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

DAR-ES-SALAAM - good preparation for a perfect stay!

Planning a trip to Dar es Salaam requires good organization to make the most of your stay. Whether you are coming for leisure or business, it is important to know how to navigate the city, which neighborhoods to visit, and when is the best time to travel.

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The best time to visit Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam has a tropical climate with high temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit is the dry season, which lasts from June to October and again from January to February. At that time, temperatures are pleasant and humidity is lower, making it easier to explore the city and nearby attractions. The rainy season lasts from March to May and from November to December, when heavy rains are frequent and may affect travel plans.

Getting around the city – transportation and parking

In Dar es Salaam, traffic can be very congested, especially during the morning and afternoon hours. There are several transportation options:

Taxi: A practical but more expensive option. It is recommended to agree on the fare in advance as taxis are not always available.
Bajaji (tuk-tuk): A cheaper and quicker way to get through the crowds.
Dala dala (minibus): The cheapest option, but often crowded and slower.
Car rental: A good option for those planning trips outside the city, although driving in Dar es Salaam can be challenging due to heavy traffic.

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Parking in the city center can be problematic, but most hotels offer their own parking spaces, which is a major advantage for guests using rental cars.

The most interesting city districts

Dar es Salaam has several interesting districts worth exploring:

Masaki: An upscale district with luxury hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Kivukoni: A historic district housing the National Museum of Tanzania and the Kivukoni fish market.
Msasani: Known for its seaside promenades and modern cafes.
Kariakoo: The commercial center of the city, perfect for shopping and exploring local culture.

Local gastronomy – what to taste?

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Tanzanian cuisine offers a variety of flavors inspired by African, Arab, and Indian influences. We recommend trying:

Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, often served with ugali (cornmeal porridge).
Pilau: Aromatic rice with meat and spices.
Samaki wa kupaka: Fish cooked in a coconut sauce.
Mandazi: A doughnut-like pastry, often served for breakfast.

Additional accommodation recommendations – apartments and boutique hotels

In addition to high-category hotels, Dar es Salaam also offers more affordable yet quality accommodations such as boutique hotels and apartments. Here are some of the best choices:
The Slow Leopard

A friendly hostel with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for backpackers.
Location: Msasani, near popular restaurants and cafes.
Reasons for recommendation: Affordable price, communal areas for socializing, and good connectivity to the beach.
Amenities: Bar, restaurant, organized tours.
Rating: ★★
Room rates start at €25 per night.

Greenlight Hotel

Modern boutique hotel that offers a peaceful stay away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Location: Buguruni, easily accessible from the city center.
Reasons for recommendation: Pleasant ambiance, friendly staff, good value for money.
Amenities: Restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi.
Rating: ★★★
Room rates start at €40 per night.

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Fig Tree Residences

Luxury apartments ideal for long stays and families.
Location: Masaki, near the beach and shops.
Reasons for recommendation: Spacious apartments, fully equipped kitchen, and a peaceful environment.
Amenities: Private garden, restaurant, swimming pool.
Rating: ★★★★
Room rates start at €110 per night.

Useful tips for travelers

Before arriving in Dar es Salaam, it is useful to know a few things:

Visa: Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival, but it is recommended to check the requirements in advance.
Safety: Most tourist areas are safe, but it is advised to avoid dark and deserted streets at night.
Currency: The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS), although euros and dollars are often accepted in hotels and tourist facilities.
Bargaining: It is common to bargain for a lower price in shops and at markets.
Electrical outlets: Tanzania uses the British type of sockets, so it is advisable to bring an adapter.

Dar es Salaam is a fascinating destination that offers diverse experiences and activities for every traveler. From luxury hotels and apartments to cultural landmarks and excellent gastronomy, this city provides an unforgettable stay.

Author: AI Ana Vau

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