Dar es Salaam
Dar-es-Salaam is the largest city and economic capital of Tanzania. Located in a quiet bay off the Indian Ocean coast, the city has developed into an economic importance to become a prosperous center of the entire East African region. Its bustling harbor is the main port in Tanzania.
Its 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 organizations in the country all have a presence in the bustling urban city.
What are the things to do in Dar es Salaam?
Restaurants, shops, office buildings, and government buildings are all common features of Tanzania’s urban center.
During the German occupation in the early 20th century, Dar es Salaam was the center of colonial administration and the main contact point between the agricultural mainland and the world of trade and commerce in the Indian Ocean and the Swahili Coast.
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 colorful markets are well worth a visit.
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 center.
Seven kilometres north of the city, is Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve which offers good snorkeling and diving sites for those who want to explore the water. The reserve boasts of its 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.
Dar-es-Salaam Marine Reserve
The Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System (DMRS) is a group of marine wildlife reserves in Tanzania, situated off the coast of the Dar es Salaam Region.
The reserve system consists of nine uninhabited islands, four north of Dar es Salaam (Bongoyo, Mbudya, Pangavini, and Fungu Yasini) and five south of the city (Inner and Outer Makatumbe, Inner and Outer Sinda, and Kendwa Island).
It provides protection for several important tropical ecosystems; coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.