Thing to do
Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society
The Oyster Bay home of Tingatinga painting, where a cooperative gallery sells work and artists paint in studios lining the road near Morogoro Stores.
Kariakoo Market
Dar es Salaam's main trading district, with a rebuilt multi-storey central market and surrounding streets selling fabrics, spices, produce and household goods.
At a glance
- Type
- Market district
- Area
- Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Good to know
- Fabrics
- Spices
- Produce
- Household goods
Why we recommend it
Kariakoo is the commercial heart of Dar es Salaam: a grid of streets in Ilala district packed with shops, stalls and traders, centred on the Kariakoo Market building.
The central market building was badly damaged by fire in July 2021. The government funded a reconstruction costing about 28 billion Tanzanian shillings, and the new multi-storey complex has since reopened, according to the Daily News in March 2026, with modern stalls and storage, fire suppression systems, underground parking and improved security. It accommodates more than 1,500 traders, many of whom lost their businesses in the fire.
For visitors, the appeal lies as much in the surrounding streets as in the market itself. Kariakoo is the place to buy kanga and kitenge, the printed cotton cloths worn across the coast, and fabric shops are found throughout the district. A travel writer for The EastAfrican reported paying around a third less for kitenge here than in Nairobi. You will also find baskets, spices, fruit and vegetables, shoes, clothing, jewellery, cosmetics and household goods of every kind, mostly aimed at local shoppers rather than tourists, which keeps prices reasonable.
It is crowded, noisy and colourful, and it rewards a little preparation. Go on a weekday morning, when trading is in full swing but before the hottest part of the day. Carry cash in small notes, keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket or zipped bag, and leave jewellery at the hotel. Bargaining is normal, so start below the asking price and stay good-humoured. Ask before photographing stallholders, and be ready to say no firmly but politely to persistent sellers.
If you are nervous about navigating the area alone, consider a guided visit: Dar es Salaam city tours, including those run by Daigle Tours, often include Kariakoo, and Afri Roots' cycling and walking tours focus on markets and everyday city life. Allow at least an hour, or half a day if you are shopping seriously for fabric. Kariakoo is a short taxi or bajaj ride from the city centre hotels; agree the fare first or use a ride-hailing app, and arrange your return before you are loaded down with shopping.
Kariakoo Market FAQs
What is Kariakoo?
The main trading district of Dar es Salaam, centred on the Kariakoo Market building in Ilala.
Is the market open after the 2021 fire?
Yes. The government rebuilt it as a multi-storey complex, which has reopened.
What can I buy there?
Kanga and kitenge fabric, baskets, spices, fruit and vegetables, clothing, shoes, jewellery and household goods.
When is the best time to go?
A weekday morning, when trading is busy but before the midday heat.
Is bargaining expected?
Yes. Start below the asking price and stay polite.
Is it safe for tourists?
It is very crowded, so keep valuables secure, carry small notes and consider going with a guide.
Can I visit on a tour?
Yes. City tours, including Daigle Tours' city tour, and Afri Roots' market-focused tours cover the area.
How long should I allow?
At least an hour, or half a day for serious fabric shopping.