Dar es Salaam remains Tanzania's economic hub but faces significant street crime, petty theft, and armed robbery particularly in coastal and downtown districts. Tourist areas around Stone Town and the Waterfront are frequent targets for sophisticated scams and pickpocketing operations.
Safety overview — Dar es Salaam 2026
Risk score
6.2/10
Night safety
Be careful
Tap water
Bottled recommended
Country
Tanzania
Safety tips for Dar es Salaam
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Warning
Avoid Ilala and Kinondoni districts after dark; armed robberies targeting tourists peak between 9 PM-3 AM near Ocean Road and Bagamoyo Street
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Scam Alert
Fake safari booking scams and currency exchange fraud are rampant around Clock Tower area; use only registered tour operators with verified credentials
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Safety
Keep valuables hidden; pickpocketing is endemic at Kariakoo Market and ferry terminals—use cross-body bags and avoid displaying phones/cameras
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Health
Malaria transmission is year-round; use DEET insect repellent consistently and sleep under mosquito nets even in hotels
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Traffic
Avoid driving at night; roads lack street lighting and enforcement is minimal; use registered taxi services like Uber or Bolt rather than street taxis
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General
Register with your embassy before arrival; carry copies of passport separately and keep originals in hotel safes
Local ride-hailing similar to Uber, covers main areas
Health and medical in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and main port, offering vibrant culture, beaches, and historical sites along the Indian Ocean coast. Health facilities are improving but standards vary significantly between private and public institutions.
Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria prophylaxis, Routine immunizations
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Aga Khan Hospital
Private · English spoken
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Muhimbili National Hospital of Reference
Public · English spoken
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ICC (International Medical Clinic)
Private · English spoken
🚨 Dial 112 or 999 for emergencies. Ambulance services are unreliable; arrange private transport to hospital if possible. Blood supply may be limited; contact your embassy for assistance.
Dar es Salaam remains Tanzania's economic hub but faces significant street crime, petty theft, and armed robbery particularly in coastal and downtown districts. Tourist areas around Stone Town and the Waterfront are frequent targets for sophisticated scams and pickpocketing operations.
Is Dar es Salaam safe at night?
Night safety in Dar es Salaam: Be careful. Always take standard precautions in any major city.
Is tap water safe to drink in Dar es Salaam?
Tap water status in Dar es Salaam: Bottled recommended.
What is the best area to stay in Dar es Salaam?
Our top pick for staying in Dar es Salaam is Upanga—best balance of safety, comfort, local authenticity, and reasonable pricing without feeling touristy or isolated. Book accommodations with confirmed parking or arrange taxi pickups in advance; traffic is unpredictable and ride-hailing apps work better than street hailing for safety
Do I need vaccinations to visit Dar es Salaam?
No required vaccinations for most nationalities. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria prophylaxis, Routine immunizations.
What is the emergency number in Dar es Salaam?
In Dar es Salaam: Police 112, Ambulance 112, Tourist Police +255 22 211 4305.
How do I get from the airport to Dar es Salaam city centre?
Best option: Uber for safety and transparency. Uber: 15,000-25,000 TSh (~$6-10 USD), 25-35 minutes. Taxi (negotiated): 20,000-30,000 TSh (~$8-12 USD), 25-35 minutes. Hotel shuttle: 10,000-20,000 TSh (~$4-8 USD), 30-40 minutes
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