Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and is located along the east coast of Africa. This bustling city is a tropical melting pot of culture, history, arts, and cuisine. Dar es Salaam offers diverse recreation for every traveler; including idyllic beaches, numerous water sports, and sumptuous seafood.
Whether you plan to relax or seek out more adventurous modes of entertainment, something that every traveler should have in common is travel medical insurance. Unforeseen situations can arise no matter how you spend your time, so it pays to protect yourself.
Dar es Salaam Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Accidents and diseases can affect anyone at any place in the world. It is in your best interest to be protected against medical expenses in foreign countries. By purchasing Dar es Salaam travel medical insurance, you are creating a safety net for yourself and your traveling companions should an accident occur.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Dar es Salaam?
Although it is not mandatory to buy travel medical insurance for Dar es Salaam, you should purchase adequate insurance that can cover expenses related to emergency hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains. This may end up saving you money should you need to seek medical treatment during your trip.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Dar es Salaam?
Visitors traveling to Dar es Salaam are at a higher risk of exposure to illnesses such as malaria, yellow fever, and zika virus. Medical facilities in Dar es Salaam may be limited, and in case of a sudden accident or severe illness, you might need to be evacuated to another location. Buy travel medical insurance to get access to necessary treatment with fewer worries about a large bill.
Things to Do for Travelers in Dar es Salaam
National Museum and House of Culture
The National Museum and House of Culture was first opened to the public in 1940 as a tribute to King George V. Today, it displays fossils unearthed in the mid-1900s during archeological digs at Olduvai Gorge; which is also located in Tanzania. The museum also showcases the tribal heritage of the country along with traditional crafts, customs, ornaments, and musical instruments.
Mbudya Island
Mbudya Island is an uninhabited patch of land that lies 15 to 20 minutes north of the mainland of Dar es Salaam. The island is a picturesque escape from the exciting pace of the city and can only be accessed via boat ride. It is one of a few protected islands included in the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve, drawing in both tourists and residents. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish and lobsters grilled on the beach, go snorkeling in its pristine blue waters, or camp out for the night in one of the campgrounds on site.
Mwenge Woodcarvers Market
This marketplace hosts over 200 artisan carvers that specialize in Makonde carvings. Although African ceremonial masks are often the main attraction for tourists, you will also find other art pieces such as hand-carved bowls, jewelry, chests, and sculptures. Feel free to view the pieces at your leisure and don't be afraid to bargain for anything that catches your eye.
Village Museum
The Makumbusho Village Museum, located in the Kinondoni district of Dar es Salaam, is an open-air museum that showcases authentic dwellings of the main indigenous tribes of Tanzania. The museum offers tourists a chance to engage in the cultures of these groups through exhibits such as the traditional residences, crops, and tools each tribe used. After touring the Village Museum and returning to the main city, you might find some of the buildings to look familiar. This is because elements of the architecture are still being used by the respective tribes.
Coco Beach
Coco Beach is a Dar es Salaam local hotspot that is located in the Oyster Bay area. Coco Beach offers several restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the tropical view. Often frequented by locals, this beach will give you a true glimpse into the seaside lifestyle of Dar es Salaam.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Dar es Salaam
Scams and thefts
Pickpockets tend to be more active around sites commonly visited by tourists. This includes the beach and other often crowded areas. It is best to carry a bag that has a zipper and can be closed, as well as wearing bags across your body so they cannot be easily grabbed. Additionally, do your best to travel in groups and avoid going out too late at night.
Transportation safety
Always choose reputable ferry and taxi providers, as scams have been known to occur. Take note of emergency protocols while aboard ferries and other transportation, and be aware of designated high-risk areas when partaking in sea adventures.
Diseases
Travelers can expose themselves to several water-borne and food-related illnesses. Always drink bottled water, and purchase food from hygienic vendors. You should also consider getting vaccinated against yellow fever before departing. Take antimalarial medications with you and ensure your accommodation is insect-free.
Before You Travel to Dar es Salaam - Do This
- Carry travel essentials like mosquito repellent, insect repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from warm weather.
- Cyclones and floods are common in the coastal areas during the rainy season. Stay up to date on local news before heading out, especially if you are traveling between July and October.
- Buy travel medical insurance for your trip to this beautiful seaport city. A small investment in insurance can go a long way to give you peace of mind during your vacation.