Level 8

Level 8 is the rooftop bar of the Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro, on the eighth floor of the hotel on Kivukoni Front. It has been one of the city's favourite places for a sundowner since the building's days as the Kilimanjaro Kempinski, thanks to its 360-degree view over the harbour, the old city and the Indian Ocean.

The view is the main event. From the bar you can watch the traffic in and out of the port and look out over the downtown towers as the lights come on. Arrive in the hour before sunset to see the city in both daylight and darkness, and to get a seat with the best view.

The bar focuses on cocktails, with beer, wine and spirits also available. A live DJ plays from Wednesday to Sunday, and there is no cover charge, which keeps it accessible for a single drink as well as a full night out. The hotel has also run live jazz on Friday evenings in the past, so check what is on when you visit. The Kilimanjaro Casino is in the same building if you want to move on.

Level 8 opens from 17:00 to 01:00, Monday to Saturday, and from 16:00 to 01:00 on Sundays. Children over 12 are allowed until 21:00, and only when accompanied by an adult, so this is essentially an adult venue later in the evening. Smart casual dress is the safe choice.

The bar suits couples, business travellers, groups of friends and visitors staying in the city centre who want a relaxed but polished night out without a long taxi ride. Drinks are priced at international hotel levels. You do not need to be staying at the Hyatt to visit, and the crowd is a mix of locals, expatriates and hotel guests.

Level 8 combines well with dinner downstairs at the hotel's Oriental restaurant or The Palm, or with a meal at one of the restaurants around Kivukoni Front and Sokoine Drive. As with any evening in the city centre, take a licensed taxi or ride-hailing car back to your hotel rather than walking long distances after dark.