Masaki: Restaurants, Ocean Views & Convenience
Masaki is where most expats and diplomats live when they first move to Dar es Salaam. It sits on the tip of the peninsula, surrounded by the ocean. You can walk or take a short tuk-tuk (bajaji) ride to supermarkets like Shoppers, international restaurants, gyms, and cafes.
Oysterbay: Trees, Larger Houses & Embassy Area
Right next to Masaki is Oysterbay. It is quieter, with wide leafy streets, single-family homes with gardens, and compound villas. Many embassies are located here, and it is very close to the International School of Tanganyika (IST) campus.
Zanzibar: Fumba Town & Stone Town Living
If you are relocating to Zanzibar, Fumba Town is a new planned oceanfront community about 20 minutes from the airport. It has reliable fiber internet, 24-hour security, and quiet sea views. If you prefer rich history and culture, Stone Town has restored traditional Swahili homes right near the harbor.
How Rental Deposits and Contracts Work
In Tanzania, landlords usually ask for 6 to 12 months of rent upfront when signing a contract. For longer stays, 3-month payments can sometimes be agreed upon. You will also pay 1 month rent as a security deposit. Always double-check who pays for electricity tokens (TANESCO) and water bills (DAWASA) before signing.