The economic centre, largest city and former capital of Tanzania, Dar Es Salaam, is rich in culture, heritage, history and sightseeing. It is a starting point for many visitors making their way to other large attractions in Tanzania, such as the coastal islands or inland safaris, but there is also a lot to see and do in this town.

The multicultural country of Tanzania is home to an incredible range of tribes and religions. Due to this mixing and mingling of cultures – the majority of the population is Muslim, followed by Christians, Hindus, Sikhs and other local tribes – there is no shortage of exciting holidays, a diversity of festivities in which everyone takes real pride. Tanzanians respect each other’s religious differences and enjoy a few notable celebrations, including Eid ul-Fitr, Christmas, Navratri and Diwali.

THIS ARTICLE IS AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AND SWAHILI. Adoringly known as ‘Dar’ by enthusiasts, Dar es Salaam, the former capital but still premier city of Tanzania, borders the warm Indian Ocean. Once a small, Swahili fishing village located in the centre of the East African coastline, Dar now leads Tanzanian access to one of the world’s most important sea routes.