July 20, 2025
🌴 Welcome to Dar es Salaam! As your home base at Gallivanters Hostel in Masaki, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the city’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and hidden gems. Whether you have just a weekend or a full week, here’s your local-approved guide to the best sights within walking distance or a short ride away.
🏖️ 1. Coco Beach (5-Min Walk)
Why Go? The closest beach to the hostel, perfect for sunrise swims, beach volleyball, and fresh coconut vendors.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekends for the liveliest atmosphere with music and street food. Avoid midday sun—early mornings and late afternoons are best.
🛍️ 2. Masaki Slipway (10-Min Walk)
Why Go? A charming waterfront market with local crafts, souvenirs, and seafood restaurants.
Don’t Miss:
- Sunday Market (best for handmade jewelry & art)
- The Waterfront Sunset Bar (try the passionfruit mojito!)
🌿 3. Botanical Gardens (15-Min Walk / 5-Min Taxi)
Why Go? A peaceful escape with tropical plants, monkeys, and colonial-era architecture.
Best For: Picnics, birdwatching, and Instagram-worthy greenery.
🕌 4. Kivukoni Fish Market (20-Min Dala-Dala Ride)
Why Go? Experience Tanzania’s freshest seafood straight from the Indian Ocean.
Must-Try: Grilled octopus or “Chipsi Mayai” (french fry omelet, a local favorite).
Hostel Hack: Ask our staff for the best local-guided market tour (safety + bargaining tips included).
⛵ 5. Bongoyo Island (30-Min Boat Ride from Msasani Slipway)
Why Go? A pristine island getaway with white sand, snorkeling, and no crowds.
How to Get There:
- Walk to Msasani Slipway (10 min)
- Take a $20 round-trip boat (includes snorkel gear)
Pro Tip: Pack water & snacks—only one small beach bar on the island.
🦁 6. Village Museum (20-Min Taxi)
Why Go? Discover Tanzania’s tribal heritage with traditional huts, dances, and crafts.
Best Day to Visit: Saturday (live performances at 2 PM).
🌅 7. Sunset Dhow Cruise (10-Min Walk to Slipway Pier)
Why Go? Sail on a traditional wooden dhow with views of the Dar skyline.
Hostel Perk: We partner with local captains for exclusive backpacker discounts (ask at reception!).
🚐 Bonus: Quick Day Trips from Dar
If you have extra time, don’t miss:
- Pugu Hills Nature Reserve (30 min) – Forest hikes & caves
- Kunduchi Wet ‘N’ Wild (40 min) – Waterpark & go-karting
- Bagamoyo (1.5 hrs) – Historic slave trade port & beaches
🗺️ Gallivanters Hostel’s Free Walking Map
We’ve marked all these spots (plus secret local eateries) on our exclusive hostel map—grab one at reception!
🎒 Ready to Explore?
Book your bed now and get our free “Dar es Salaam Insider Guide” PDF upon arrival!
👉 Reserve Your Adventure Today
What’s your must-see in Dar? Let us know in the comments—we’ll add the best tips to our guide! 🌍✈️
