Getting around Dar es Salaam

Public transport

For short journeys within Dar es Salaam, there is a choice between 30-seater ‘Coaster' buses or dalla-dallas, which are smaller minibuses. These both run when full and can be awkward to try and board with luggage. Dalla-dallas are cheap but can be unsafe, as drivers race each other to pick-up points to collect new passengers. The names of the first and last stop are shown in the front window or hollered out by the driver's assistant, who also collects the fares. Main terminals include New Posta in front of the main post office on Maktaba Street, Kariakoo on Msimbazi Street, Kivukoni on Kivukoni Front and Stesheni on Algeria Street, near to the Central Line railway station.

Taxis

Taxis are distinguished by their white number plates. Fares are not fixed or metered so you must negotiate the best deal before setting off. You can find taxi ranks throughout the city, usually in front of larger hotels, bars, clubs, restaurants or landmark buildings. Shared taxis are relatively rare.

For a cheaper alternative for short distances, consider hailing a tuk-tuk. These are fully enclosed, if sometimes shaky, two-seater motorbike taxis that resemble motorised rickshaws.

Driving

Most companies insist that you hire a 4-wheel drive vehicle if driving outside the city. However, unless you are familiar with driving in East Africa, it is unusual to take a self-drive tour: most people hire a driver or join an organised safari.

Tanzanians drive on the left. The speed limit within urban areas is 30-50kph (19-31mph). Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear seat belts.

Car hire

There are a handful of car hire agencies in Dar, including Avis (tel: +255 22 276 1277; www.avis.com) and Green Car Rentals (tel: +255 22 218 3718; www.greencarstz.com).

Bicycle hire

The main roads are often sealed in, so cycling can be very dangerous, but many of the secondary roads are safer. Mountain bikes are virtually essential and should be brought from home as hired bikes tend to be of poor quality. Bicycle Africa (www.ibike.org/bikeafrica) organises cycling tours throughout Tanzania.