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Slipway Shopping Centre, Tanzania - Things to Do in Slipway Shopping Centre

Things to Do in Slipway Shopping Centre

Slipway Shopping Centre, Tanzania - Complete Travel Guide

Slipway Shopping Centre is located in the vibrant Msimbazi Peninsula area of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and economic hub. This waterfront destination combines modern shopping with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The centre serves as a gateway to exploring Dar es Salaam's blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and bustling markets. Dar es Salaam, meaning 'Haven of Peace' in Arabic, is Tanzania's former capital and remains the country's most important commercial center. The city offers visitors a unique mix of colonial German and British architecture, traditional Swahili culture, and modern urban development. From the Slipway area, travelers can easily access nearby attractions, enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views, and experience the dynamic energy of East Africa's largest port city.

Top Things to Do in Slipway Shopping Centre

Explore Traditional Markets and Kivukoni Fish Market

Visit the bustling Kariakoo Market, one of East Africa's largest markets, where you can find everything from colorful fabrics to spices and local crafts. The nearby Kivukoni Fish Market offers an authentic glimpse into local life as fishermen bring in their daily catch from the Indian Ocean.

Booking Tip: Visit markets early morning (6-9 AM) for the freshest selections and cooler temperatures. Bring small bills for bargaining and consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to navigate safely and get better prices.

Take a Ferry to Zanzibar

Board a high-speed ferry from the nearby Zanzibar Ferry Terminal for a scenic journey to the historic Spice Island. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views of the coastline and chance to spot dolphins.

Booking Tip: Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (June-September). First-class tickets cost around $35-40 and include air conditioning. Departure times are typically at 7 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:30 PM.

Visit National Museum and Cultural Sites

Discover Tanzania's rich history at the National Museum, which houses important archaeological finds including fossils from Olduvai Gorge. The nearby Azania Front Lutheran Church and St. Joseph Cathedral showcase the city's colonial architectural heritage.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs around $3 for adults. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and combine with nearby Village Museum ($5 entry) which displays traditional Tanzanian tribal houses and cultural demonstrations.

Sunset Dhow Cruise

Experience a traditional dhow sailing boat cruise along the coastline during sunset, offering spectacular views of the city skyline and Indian Ocean. Many cruises include traditional Swahili music and local snacks.

Booking Tip: Book sunset cruises for $25-40 per person through reputable operators. Best time is during dry season (June-October) for clearer skies. Cruises typically last 2-3 hours and depart around 4 PM.

Coco Beach and Waterfront Activities

Relax at the popular Coco Beach, just a short distance from Slipway, where locals gather for swimming, beach volleyball, and enjoying grilled seafood from local vendors. The beach comes alive in the evenings with live music and cultural performances.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but bring your own towels and sun protection. Local food vendors offer fresh coconuts for $1-2 and grilled fish for $3-5. Visit on weekends for the most vibrant atmosphere.

Getting There

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is located about 12 kilometers southwest of Dar es Salaam city center and Slipway Shopping Centre. Taxis from the airport cost $15-25 and take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Uber and Bolt are also available and often cheaper. For budget travelers, dalla-dalla (local minibuses) run from the airport to the city center for under $1, though they can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors. Many hotels offer airport pickup services for $20-30.

Getting Around

Getting around Dar es Salaam requires patience due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM). Taxis are the most convenient option for tourists, with rides within the city center costing $3-8. Uber and Bolt operate in the city and are generally safer and more reliable than street taxis. Dalla-dalla minibuses are the cheapest option at $0.30-0.50 per ride but can be overcrowded. For short distances around Slipway area, walking is pleasant due to the waterfront location, and many attractions are within a few kilometers of each other.

Where to Stay

Msimbazi Peninsula (near Slipway)
City Centre
Oyster Bay
Masaki
Upanga
Kariakoo

Food & Dining

Dar es Salaam's food scene reflects its multicultural heritage with excellent Indian, Arabic, and traditional Tanzanian cuisine. The Slipway area offers several waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood with ocean views, with meals ranging from $8-20. Street food is abundant and safe when chosen carefully - try urojo (spiced soup), mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), and fresh tropical fruits. Indian restaurants in the city center serve authentic curries and biryanis for $5-12. For fine dining, head to Oyster Bay or Masaki areas where international restaurants offer meals for $15-30. Don't miss trying local Kilimanjaro or Safari beer with your meals.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Daressalaam

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Samaki Samaki restaurant

4.5 /5
(6773 reviews) 2

Karambezi Cafe

4.5 /5
(4117 reviews) 2
cafe store

Epi d'or

4.5 /5
(2570 reviews) 2
bakery store

Grand Restaurant

4.5 /5
(1654 reviews) 2

Akemi Revolving Restaurant

4.5 /5
(1654 reviews) 2

G’eez Hangout - Restaurant & Pizza

4.5 /5
(357 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Dar es Salaam is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February. These months offer less humidity, minimal rainfall, and pleasant temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). The long rainy season (March-May) can make getting around difficult due to flooding, while the short rains in November are usually brief afternoon showers. June to August is peak tourist season with higher accommodation prices but the most comfortable weather. December to February is hot but great for beach activities, while September to November offers good weather with fewer crowds and better prices.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Swahili greetings like 'Jambo' (hello) and 'Asante' (thank you) - locals appreciate the effort and you'll get better service
Always carry small bills (1000-5000 Tanzanian shillings) for tips, street food, and dalla-dalla rides as vendors rarely have change for large notes
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics openly, and use hotel safes for valuables - petty theft can be an issue in crowded areas

Explore Activities in Slipway Shopping Centre