Getting from Julius Nyerere International Airport
The airport is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. There are several ways to reach your destination, each with different costs and levels of convenience:
- Taxis: A taxi from the airport to the city center typically starts at TSh 30,000, though prices may increase during nighttime hours.
- Bajaji: These smaller vehicles offer a more economical alternative, costing about half the price of a standard taxi.
- Dala-dala (Minibuses): For a budget-friendly option, you can walk to the nearby daladala stop. These buses are inexpensive but may take significant detours before reaching their final destination. Look for those marked "POSTA" to reach the city center near the ferry terminal.
- Ride-Hailing: While not explicitly detailed as a standalone category in all sections, ride-hailing is a viable option to connect from the airport area to nearby BRT stops if you prefer to use the transit system for the remainder of your journey.
Rail Networks
Dar es Salaam serves as the primary hub for rail travel in Tanzania. There are two distinct railway systems serving the city:
- Central Railway: This line connects Dar es Salaam to various regions including Mwanza and the capital, Dodoma. It also has a branch leading toward Arusha.
- Tazara Line: This line runs between Dar es Salaam and Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia. It is noted for being a scenic but slower route that passes through the Selous Game Reserve.
Note for travelers: The city features two distinct stations. The Central Railway Station handles all trains operated by Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), while the Tazara Railway Station is located on the western edge of the city and serves all trains on the Tazara line. Tickets can be booked online via the TRC system or at designated offices.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
Known locally as DART, the Bus Rapid Transit system is considered one of the fastest and most reliable ways to navigate the city's busiest corridors. The system utilizes dedicated lanes to bypass heavy traffic.
- Route Coverage: The network currently connects various parts of the city, including the Kivukoni Ferry and Morocco areas.
- Airport Connectivity: While there is currently no direct BRT station inside the airport, future phases are planned to provide a direct, affordable link from the airport area into the city center.
Buses and Other Public Transport
General bus travel in the region is reliable provided you choose a reputable company. These buses serve as a common method for moving between different districts.
- Dala-dalas: These are local minibuses that provide widespread coverage but may take indirect routes to reach their destinations.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
For those seeking direct point-to-point transportation, taxis and ride-hailing services are available throughout the city. These options provide more direct routing than local buses but come at a higher cost.
Walkability
While specific walking routes are not detailed for the entire city, the area around the Kariakoo district is a major shopping hub where many people navigate through various shops and bazaars. However, be mindful of heavy traffic and bustling activity in these high-density commercial zones.