Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Transport
44
Dalla-dalla Junction & Taxi StandsC3
Travel Partner(see 41)
THE MANY FACES OF DAR
Dar es Salaam's centre runs along Samora Ave from the clock tower to the As-
kari monument. Northeast of here are quiet, tree-lined streets with the National
Museum, Botanical Gardens and State House. To the northwest, around India
and Jamhuri Sts, is the Asian quarter, with its many Indian merchants and
traders. It is here that the city is at its most exotic. Vendors hawk their wares
along narrow, congested streets lined with colonial-era buildings, small
dukas
(shops) sell everything from lighting fixtures to textiles, and Indian-style tea
rooms serve up spicy samosas and other snacks.
Stretching west and southwest of the city is a jumble of vibrant, earthy neigh-
bourhoods, including Kariakoo, Temeke and Ilala. In these areas - seldom
reached by travellers - sandy streets wind past small, square, densely packed
houses with corrugated roofs, and bustling night markets do business the light of
dozens of small kerosene lanterns.
Following Ocean Rd and Toure Dr northwards towards Msasani Peninsula,
you'll first pass through the upper-middle class area of Upanga and then, after
crossing Selander Bridge, reach the fast-developing diplomatic and upmarket
residential areas of Oyster Bay and Msasani (at the peninsula's tip), with their
clipped lawns, stately diplomatic residences, sea breezes and Western-style din-
ing and shopping.
Southeast of town is Kigamboni Ferry, which takes you five minutes across
the bay to a string of relaxing beaches. The only real stretch of sand in the city
proper is at Coco Beach, but better beaches to the north and south are only a
short ride away.
SIGHTS & ACTIVITIES
Sampling Dar's vibrant markets and craft shops is one of the city's highlights; see Shopping
(
Click here
)
.
