Old Boma Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam's oldest building, offering a historical exhibition and panoramic rooftop views of the harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & sunset views
Old Boma Dar es Salaam
Best Time
Cooler temps & sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dar es Salaam's oldest building, offering a historical exhibition and panoramic rooftop views of the harbor.
"A must-see for those visiting Dar, perfect while waiting for the ferry!"
🎯 Rooftop Access
Ask about visiting the gorgeous rooftop; it offers amazing views and can be rented for events! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Navigating Access
Roadworks can make entry tricky. Try the rear gardens if the main entrance is hard to find. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
The building itself
Explore one of Dar es Salaam's oldest structures, a testament to its colonial past and architectural heritage.
Dar es Salaam History Exhibition
Inside the Old Boma
Discover the city's transformation from a fishing village to a bustling metropolis through insightful displays.
Rooftop Views
Rooftop garden
Enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline, especially beautiful during sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating Roadworks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rooftop Access
Ask about visiting the gorgeous rooftop; it offers amazing views and can be rented for events! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Navigating Access
Roadworks can make entry tricky. Try the rear gardens if the main entrance is hard to find. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Ferry Waiting Spot
Perfect stopover if waiting for the Zanzibar ferry; it's conveniently located nearby. :ferry:
🖼️ Local Art Exhibitions
Check for art exhibitions, like the 'Outbreak' exhibition, showcasing local talent. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rooftop Access
Ask about visiting the gorgeous rooftop; it offers amazing views and can be rented for events! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Navigating Access
Roadworks can make entry tricky. Try the rear gardens if the main entrance is hard to find. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Ferry Waiting Spot
Perfect stopover if waiting for the Zanzibar ferry; it's conveniently located nearby. :ferry:
🖼️ Local Art Exhibitions
Check for art exhibitions, like the 'Outbreak' exhibition, showcasing local talent. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Boma for its historical significance, insightful exhibition, and stunning rooftop views. It's considered a 'hidden gem' offering good value and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a recommended stop, especially for those near the ferry terminal. Some minor drawbacks include potential access issues due to roadworks and occasional inconsistencies in food quality.
"Had a lovely experience at the oldest building in Dar Es Salaam ❤️
Relaxed and had a beer and light lunch. Definitely a place you need to visit when in Town.
Friendly staff...nice service .good food. Great value for money.
AMAZING VIEWS 🤩
See for yourself ☺️
I would highly recommend this hidden gem. It sticks out from the tall architecture that surrounds it since it's only a few storeys high, but the history that is the old Boma lives on to this day and I hope for hundreds of years to come...❤️"
Angela Nyang'or
"Old Boma is conveniently located by the Zanzibar ferry terminal and we dropped in after our ferry docked. It was difficult to navigate to as there are major roadworks happening outside and so we entered via the rear gardens, where people are seated eating - seeming to be from local businesses. After asking, a waitress took us into the old building - apparently the sultan's former guest house (his actual house had been demolished nearby to make way for the towering Johari hotel. Once we reached the roof garden, unfortunately they only had white rice, which we ordered with barbecued chicken. The rice was ok, served with some rather bland beans, although the chicken was really good and so we ordered another portion, that was not quite so good and the cold chips it was served with pretty poor - the food being run up the stairs from the kitchen in the garden below. It does serve beer, and I enjoyed a Safari. There are nice views from the roof."
Agberolistic
"Beautifully restored, and one of Dar's few old buildings you can also see from the inside. Inside there is a permanent exhibition on the history of Dar whixh is very thorough and insightful, but also remains accessible to this not familiar with Tanzania's history. They also sell some nice postcards of the city. Don't forget to ask whether you can visit their gorgeous rooftop (which can also be rented as a venue for parties).
In short: must see for those visiting Dar. For those only passing through on their way to Zanzibar a perfect thing to do while waiting for the ferry, as it is just across from the ferry terminal."
Felix Braeckman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Boma is located at the intersection of Morogoro Road and Sokoine Drive, facing the harbor. Due to ongoing roadworks, access can be challenging. Some visitors recommend entering via the rear gardens. It's conveniently situated near the Zanzibar ferry terminal.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, it's in a central area of Dar es Salaam, suggesting local dala-dalas (minibuses) might pass nearby. Taxis are also a readily available option for reaching the location.
Parking information is scarce due to the central location and potential roadworks. It's advisable to confirm parking availability with your accommodation or consider using taxis for direct access.
Yes, the Old Boma is very close to the Zanzibar ferry terminal, making it an ideal place to visit while waiting for your ferry.
Depending on your starting point and tolerance for heat, walking might be possible for some central attractions. However, given Dar es Salaam's size and climate, using a taxi or public transport is often more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Old Boma itself and its exhibitions is generally free or has a nominal fee. Visitors have mentioned being able to enter and explore the historical aspects.
Specific opening hours are not consistently published online. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours, especially if you wish to enjoy the rooftop views and explore the exhibitions.
While the building itself is a historical landmark, the exhibition inside is often accessible without a significant charge. Some reviews suggest a small fee might apply or that it's included with general access.
Advance booking for general entry is typically not required. However, if you are interested in renting the rooftop venue for an event, you would need to inquire about booking procedures.
Information regarding discounts for specific groups like students or seniors is not readily available. It's best to inquire upon arrival if you are seeking any concessionary rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic architecture, visit the permanent exhibition on Dar es Salaam's history, and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop garden. It's also a place to relax with a drink or meal.
Yes, the exhibition is described as very thorough, insightful, and accessible, covering the city's history from its origins to its modern development.
The rooftop offers amazing views of the harbor and the surrounding city skyline, especially picturesque during sunset.
Absolutely! The historic building, the city views from the rooftop, and any ongoing art exhibitions provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, there are seating areas, particularly in the garden and on the rooftop, where you can relax. Restrooms are also available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant and bar, often described as a 'hidden gem.' It offers light lunches and drinks, with some visitors enjoying their meals on the rooftop or in the gardens.
The menu typically includes local dishes and grilled items. While some reviews mention specific dishes like barbecued chicken, others note that food quality can vary.
Reviews suggest that the Old Boma offers great value for money, with reasonable prices for food and drinks.
Yes, the Old Boma has a bar where you can enjoy a beer or other beverages while taking in the atmosphere and views.
While specific vegetarian options aren't always highlighted, the menu often includes rice and bean dishes that can be vegetarian-friendly. It's best to inquire about current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic facade of the building, the panoramic views from the rooftop, and any art installations or exhibitions provide excellent photo opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside the exhibition, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
Late afternoons are ideal for photography, as the light is softer, and you can capture beautiful sunset colors over the harbor and city.
There are no specific mentions of drone photography restrictions for Old Boma. However, it's always advisable to be aware of local regulations regarding drone usage in urban areas.
It's respectful to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially if they are not part of a general crowd shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. While there's a restaurant, it's best to have snacks on hand for younger children. The relaxed atmosphere means kids can move around a bit more freely, especially in the garden areas.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Transit Passengers
You can explore the historical exhibition, grab a refreshing drink or a light meal at the restaurant, and soak in the panoramic city and harbor vistas from the rooftop. It's a great way to experience a piece of Dar es Salaam's heritage without venturing too far from your transit point.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the exhibition, simply being in the space allows you to appreciate the architectural heritage and imagine life in the 19th century. The rooftop views also provide a modern context, allowing you to see how the city has developed around this historic core.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Dar es Salaam's Past
Inside the Old Boma, visitors can explore a permanent exhibition that meticulously details the history of Dar es Salaam. This exhibition traces the city's evolution from a humble fishing village into the vibrant metropolis it is today. It covers key periods, including the Sultanate era, German and British colonial rule, and its post-independence development. The displays are designed to be both informative and accessible, catering to those with and without prior knowledge of Tanzanian history.
Beyond its historical significance and exhibition, the Old Boma offers a unique vantage point. Its rooftop garden provides breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and the bustling city. This elevated perspective allows visitors to appreciate the scale of Dar es Salaam's growth and its strategic location. The rooftop is also a popular spot for relaxation, dining, and even hosting events, making the Old Boma a multifaceted destination.
Experiencing the Old Boma Today
While the building itself is a draw, the exhibition is frequently highlighted as a must-see. It's praised for its thoroughness and engaging presentation of Dar es Salaam's rich history. Travelers appreciate that it provides context for the city's rapid urbanization and development.
Practical considerations for visiting include potential roadworks that might affect direct access, leading some to enter through the rear gardens. Its proximity to the Zanzibar ferry terminal also makes it a convenient stop for travelers transiting through the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit