To most travellers, Dar es Salaam is just a convenient port of call on the way to more exotic destinations of Zanzibar,the game parks, Pemba or Mafia Islands. This is a great pity, because “Dar”as it is affectionately called by aficionados of the city, is a fascinating rabbit warren of a tropical port, often surprising the unwary wanderer with scenes of breathtaking beauty.

It is the country's largest city and its communications, and economic center. The major industries produce foods and beverages, oil, textiles, clothing, shoes, cement, aluminum products, and pharmaceuticals.