Africa > Tanzania > Dar es Salaam (DAR)
The Car or no Car advice for Dar es Salaam can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Dar es Salaam ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Dar es Salaam ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Dar es Salaam?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🚗 Renting a car — possible but not recommended for most
Car rental is available at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) and in parts of the city. Prices are reasonable, and 4×4 vehicles are common. However, driving yourself can be stressful. Traffic rules are not always followed. Congestion is frequent, especially at peak times. And road quality varies quickly once you leave major highways.
If you do rent a car, choose a reliable SUV and avoid driving at night. Most visitors find it easier — and far more relaxing — to use taxis, private drivers or organised transfers.
🚕 Taxis, ride-hailing and private drivers
Uber, Bolt and local taxis operate widely across the city. They are the most convenient way to move between the airport, downtown and the coastal hotels. Prices are predictable, and drivers usually know the quickest routes through traffic.
For longer journeys — such as Bagamoyo, Mikumi National Park or the ferry terminal for Zanzibar — hiring a private driver is common. It removes the stress of navigation and makes the trip smoother.
🚍 Dar Rapid Transit (DART) — a real advantage
Dar es Salaam’s BRT system (DART) is one of the best in Africa. It has dedicated bus lanes, modern stations and clear routes. It moves quickly even when other traffic stalls. Visitors can use DART to reach the central business district, Kariakoo market and several major suburbs.
This system alone makes car-free travel far easier than many people expect.
🏖️ Car-free highlights
You can enjoy most of Dar without needing your own vehicle:
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Kivukoni Fish Market — vibrant and full of life.
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Coco Beach — an easy taxi ride for sunsets and street food.
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Slipway — shops, cafés and views across the harbour.
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National Museum — centrally located.
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Zanzibar ferries — foot passengers only.
The city’s coastal setting encourages walking along the waterfront once you arrive.
🌍 Day trips — when a car with a driver helps
Some destinations are harder to reach on public transport:
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Bagamoyo, a historic trading town north of the city.
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Mikumi National Park, usually done as an overnight safari.
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Pugu Hills, for hiking and nature.
For these trips, a car with a driver is far safer and simpler than self-drive.
🧳 Conclusion — Should you rent a car in Dar es Salaam?
Generally no. The city’s traffic, road conditions and driving culture make it challenging for visitors. Instead, taxis, ride-hailing apps, private drivers and the excellent BRT system cover almost every journey you might need. But if you want to explore national parks or rural regions, renting a car with a driver offers a practical compromise.
