Destinations Eastern Africa

Rooftop Bars in Dar es Salaam to Check Out This Holiday

Rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam
Written by Abraham Odhiambo

When you want to feel the pulse of Tanzania at night, the top places to visit are the rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam is the biggest city in Tanzania and it’s also the closest thing that the East African country has to a “metropolis”.

Whether you want the view of the city or sea views, here are the best rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam you should explore before leaving the country. Get ready to dance the night away as you drink your favourite whiskey or wine in one of these four clubs.

1. Ramada Encore

Ramada Encore

Ramada Encore. Photo/ Booking.com.

Ramada Encore is conveniently located in the central business district, within walking distance from government offices, banks, businesses and other entertainment joints. Ramada’s rooftop offers views of the sea on one side and of the city on the other side.

The Hub, bar on Ramada Encore’s rooftop, offers a wide range of all cocktails and has a nightly happy hour on local beers. As the night progresses, the DJ plays good music, ranging from Afrobeats, hip hop and R&B to Tanzania’s Bongo Flava. Come prepared to party with friends in one of the best rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam as you enjoy a 360 degree bird-eye-view of the beautiful city.

2. Level 8

Rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam

Level 8 rooftop bar in Dar es Salaam. Photo/ Hyatt Restaurants.

Level 8 is another bar in Dar es Salaam offering 360-degree views of the harbor and the city’s skyline. Here, you get the opportunity to enjoy exotic cocktails while listening to the latest beats as the sun gets gently over the city. On top of live entertainment, there is free WiFi, smoking zone, outdoor terrace and outdoor seating to ensure you have the best time. Level 8 is the gold standard for rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam.

3. Holiday Inn

Just 20 minutes drive from Julius Nyerere International Airport, Holiday Inn is a peaceful haven away from Dar es Salaam’s streets. With plants dotted around the perimeter creating a little oasis, Holiday Inn feels like a rooftop garden. It is one of the best rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam to party with friends this festive season as you escape winter in Europe.

Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn, Dar es Salaam. Photo/ Leopard Tours.

Have fun drinking and taking flavoured shisha under the thatched canopy of AI Dar Rooftop restaurant which is overlooking the Indian Ocean.

4. High Spirit 

Well, you can’t talk about the best rooftop bars in Dar es Salaam and fail to mention High Spirit. Located along Ohio Street in the heart of the city centre, this bar is everything classy and chic. High Spirit is the place to be if you’re looking to just unwind and relax from the stress of everyday life.

On Fridays and Saturdays, the rooftop bar transforms into a club complete with a light up dancefloor to pass on the dancing fun as the DJ plays great music. With views over the city, it’s easy to feel like you’re partying in New York.

High Spirit

High Spirit lounge in Dar es Salaam. Photo/ Tiketi Blog.

What Do You Wear to a Rooftop Bar?

When on a rooftop bar party, you don’t want to be caught in a downpour or freezing cold with no coverage. Wear warm layers if it’s cold out, and maybe even bring a coat with you, just in case! If it’s hot out, select outfits that are light, comfortable and breathable such as linen and cotton. 

Which City Has the Highest Rooftop Bar?

The world’s highest bar and rooftop bar, Ozone, is found on top of the luxurious The Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong. At an altitude of 480 meters, perched on the 118th floor, the rooftop offers one of the most amazing city views you can find.

Where Do the Rich Live in Dar es Salaam?

  • Oyster Bay/ Masaki
  • Mikocheni
  • Bahari Beach
  • Tegeta
  • Mbezi
  • Msasani

What Is the Best Neighbourhood to Stay in Dar es Salaam?

Oyster Bay/ Masaki. This is a well-developed and safe area to stay in Dar es Salaam. The streets are well maintained and quiet, and it’s reminiscent of a wealthy, expat neighbourhood of sorts. The area, which feels more suburban and is quite spread, has a good selection of restaurants, cafes and supermarkets which are all very tourist-friendly.

About the author

Abraham Odhiambo

Abraham Odhiambo is a writer with interests in nature, travel, African safari and sports. I'm pursuing a bachelor's degree in Media and Communication at Egerton University.

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