🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, my home for several months. This vibrant city has a unique charm that draws you in, with its rich history, stunning beaches, and warm locals. Dar es Salaam is a melting pot of cultures, where traditional Swahili and modern influences blend together seamlessly. The city’s laid-back atmosphere, coupled with its growing expat community, makes it an attractive destination for remote workers. As a Dar es Salaam digital nomad, you’ll find that the city offers a great balance of work and play, with plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the local culture.
One of the main reasons I fell in love with Dar es Salaam is its affordability. The cost of living in Dar es Salaam is relatively low, with a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costing around 550,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $247 USD) per month. This, combined with the city’s relaxed vibe and stunning natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for digital nomads looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more expensive cities.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Dar es Salaam, there are several areas that are popular with digital nomads. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Masaki: This upscale neighborhood is located on the peninsula, just a short drive from the city center. Masaki is known for its beautiful beaches, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Rent prices are slightly higher here, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around 700,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $310 USD) per month.
- Kisutu: Located in the heart of the city, Kisutu is a bustling neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings. This area is home to many local markets, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to experience the local culture. Rent prices are relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around 450,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $200 USD) per month.
- Upanga: This charming neighborhood is located just a short drive from the city center and is known for its beautiful gardens and tree-lined streets. Upanga is a popular area for expats and digital nomads, with a range of accommodation options available. Rent prices are around 500,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $220 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Dar es Salaam is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can cost around 550,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $247 USD) per month.
- Food: Eating out in Dar es Salaam can be very affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around 5,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $2.20 USD). Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a basket of basic items (rice, beans, vegetables, etc.) costing around 20,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $9 USD).
- Transport: Taxis are widely available in Dar es Salaam, with a typical fare costing around 5,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $2.20 USD). You can also use public transport, such as buses and daladala (minivans), which are even cheaper.
- Coworking: There are several coworking spaces in Dar es Salaam, with prices starting from around 50,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $22 USD) per month for a hot desk.
Internet & Coworking
Dar es Salaam has a relatively good internet infrastructure, with speeds of up to 47 Mbps available. There are several coworking spaces in the city, including:
- The Foundry: Located in the heart of the city, The Foundry is a popular coworking space with fast internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities. Prices start from around 50,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $22 USD) per month for a hot desk.
- Kijani: This eco-friendly coworking space is located in the Upanga neighborhood and offers a range of workspaces, including private offices and hot desks. Prices start from around 70,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $31 USD) per month for a hot desk.
- Anza: Located in the Masaki neighborhood, Anza is a trendy coworking space with fast internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities. Prices start from around 80,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $36 USD) per month for a hot desk.
Dar es Salaam has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Dar es Salaam Expats: This Facebook group is a great place to connect with other expats and digital nomads in the city.
- Tanzania Digital Nomads: This group is dedicated to digital nomads living and working in Tanzania, with a focus on Dar es Salaam.
- Nomad List: This popular online community has a dedicated group for Dar es Salaam, where you can connect with other digital nomads and get tips and advice on living and working in the city.
Culture & Lifestyle
Tanzanian culture is known for its warm hospitality, and Dar es Salaam is no exception. The city has a vibrant food scene, with a range of local and international restaurants to choose from. Some popular local dishes include:
- Ugali: A staple dish made from cornmeal or cassava flour, often served with stews or sauces.
- Nyama choma: A popular dish of roasted meat (usually goat or beef), often served with vegetables and ugali.
- Mandazi: Fried doughnuts that are often sprinkled with sugar or coconut flakes.
The city also has a lively nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs to choose from. Some popular spots include:
- The Waterfront: A trendy bar and restaurant located on the waterfront, with stunning views of the city.
- The Slow Leopard: A popular bar and restaurant located in the Masaki neighborhood, with a range of cocktails and live music.
- Club Bilicanas: A popular nightclub located in the city center, with a range of DJs and live music.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Tanzania. The most common type of visa is the Tourist Visa, which is valid for up to three months. You can apply for a visa online or at the airport upon arrival. The cost is around $50 USD for a single-entry visa.
Tanzania also offers a Residence Visa for digital nomads who want to stay in the country for an extended period. This visa is valid for up to two years and requires a range of documents, including a passport, proof of income, and a police certificate.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Dar es Salaam:
- SIM cards: You can buy a local SIM card at the airport or at a mobile phone shop in the city. Prices start from around 10,000 Tanzanian shillings (approximately $4.40 USD) for a prepaid SIM card.
- Transport: Taxis are widely available in Dar es Salaam, but be sure to negotiate the price before you start your journey. You can also use public transport, such as buses and daladala (minivans), which are even cheaper.
- Safety: Dar es Salaam is generally a safe city, but be sure to take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use reputable taxi services.
- Weather: Dar es Salaam has a tropical climate, with two rainy seasons per year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October.
