Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam means "haven of peace" in Arabic and Swahili and this city is more quiet and peaceful than most others. "Dar" as it is fondly called, is the central economic and political focal point of Tanzania and also the main port and communication centre. Dodoma, the administrative capital, lies to the west in the centre of the country. Dar es Salaam, with its 3 million inhabitants, sits next to the Indian Ocean and has a natural harbour. The city centre lies along a lagoon and consists of both modern and historic buildings from the Arab, German and British colonial periods. The city has much to offer. It has the Kariakoo main market, the fish market near Kinondoni Ferry, the famous Makonde Carving market, the Tinga Tinga Painting market as well as the National and Village Museums. There are a number of excellent restaurants and bars to be found in the city and comfortable hotels in different price ranges, some along the coast. On both sides of the city centre you have beautiful, white beaches.