Skip to article
Home Tanzania Safaris Kilimanjaro Zanzibar Travel Guides
Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027
Tanzania travel guide

Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027

Find the best places to stay in Dar es Salaam during AFCON 2027, with exact budget, mid-range and luxury 5-star hotel options, areas, prices and matchday planning tips.

Published September 23, 2026 15 min read Locally reviewed
Explore this guide
Reviewed by Tanzania-based travel specialists

Our guides combine current planning research with practical knowledge from arranging safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs and Zanzibar holidays.

Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027

The best places to stay in Dar es Salaam during AFCON 2027 are the City Centre and Kivukoni for central access, Oyster Bay and Msasani for a quieter coastal stay, and Masaki for upscale accommodation, restaurants and leisure.

For AFCON 2027 visitors, choosing the right hotel in Dar es Salaam should depend on four main things: your budget, your preferred area, your match schedule and how you plan to move around the city.

Tanzania is preparing to host AFCON 2027 together with Kenya and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July 2027. In Tanzania, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam is officially identified as one of the competition centres, and CAF has been inspecting stadiums, hotels, transport infrastructure and other facilities as preparations continue.

Which Area Is Best to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

The City Centre and Kivukoni are the most practical areas for visitors who want central accommodation, while Oyster Bay, Msasani and Masaki are better for visitors who prefer a coastal and leisure-oriented environment.

Area Best For Accommodation
City Centre / CBD Central location, short stays, business and sightseeing Budget to 5-star
Kivukoni Waterfront, central access, business Mid-range to 5-star
Oyster Bay Quiet coastal stay, couples and families Mid-range to luxury
Msasani Restaurants, leisure and waterfront atmosphere Mid-range to upscale
Masaki Premium accommodation, restaurants and nightlife Upscale to luxury

For an AFCON visitor staying only a few nights, City Centre and Kivukoni can be particularly convenient because they keep you close to central Dar es Salaam.

For visitors staying longer, Oyster Bay, Msasani and Masaki provide more of a residential and coastal experience.

Where Should Budget Travelers Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

Budget travelers can consider Chelsea Hotel, Peacock Hotel and other centrally located affordable hotels where the main priority is having a practical place to stay while attending AFCON matches.

1. Chelsea Hotel - 3-Star

Location: Uhuru Street, Dar es Salaam City Centre

Chelsea Hotel is a 3-star hotel offering rooms and suites, breakfast, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, restaurant facilities and 24-hour reception.

Its City Centre location makes it suitable for visitors who want accommodation close to central Dar es Salaam facilities without choosing a luxury hotel.

2. Peacock Hotel — 3-Star

Location: Bibi Titi Mohamed Road, Dar es Salaam

Peacock Hotel is another centrally located option offering accommodation, restaurant facilities, swimming pool and other hotel services.

Its location is useful for visitors who want to stay in the city rather than in a distant coastal neighbourhood.

3. CBD Hotel

Location: Nkrumah Street, Dar es Salaam

CBD Hotel is another central Dar es Salaam accommodation option to consider for visitors looking for a practical city stay.

Budget Hotel Options in Dar es Salaam

Hotel Category Area Suitable For
Chelsea Hotel 3-Star City Centre Budget AFCON visitors
Peacock Hotel 3-Star City Centre Short city stays
CBD Hotel Budget/City Hotel CBD Central accommodation

Which Mid-Range Hotels Should You Consider in Dar es Salaam?

Golden Tulip Dar City Center, Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam and Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard are practical mid-range choices for visitors who want more comfort and facilities without booking a luxury 5-star hotel.

1. Golden Tulip Dar City Center — 4-Star

Location: Jamhuri Street, City Centre

Golden Tulip Dar City Center is a 4-star hotel located in central Dar es Salaam.

It is suitable for AFCON visitors who want a central hotel with modern facilities, restaurants and convenient access to the city.

2. Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam — 4-Star

Location: Toure Drive, Oyster Bay

Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam is a 4-star hotel positioned in the Oyster Bay area.

Its location provides a different experience from City Centre hotels, particularly for visitors who want a more coastal atmosphere while staying in Dar es Salaam.

Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam

3. Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard — 3-Star

Location: Ocean Road, Dar es Salaam

Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard is a comfortable international-brand option for travelers who want a reliable hotel environment without moving into the 5-star category.

Mid-Range Hotel Options

Hotel Category Area Suitable For
Golden Tulip Dar City Center 4-Star City Centre Central AFCON stay
Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam 4-Star Oyster Bay Coastal atmosphere
Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard 3-Star Ocean Road Comfortable city stay

Which Luxury 5-Star Hotels Are Available in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

Visitors looking for luxury 5-star accommodation can consider Johari Rotana, Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro.

1. Johari Rotana — 5-Star

Location: Sokoine Drive, Central Business District

Johari Rotana

Johari Rotana is a 5-star hotel in the Central Business District of Dar es Salaam.

The hotel provides rooms and suites, serviced apartments, restaurants, swimming pool, spa and fitness facilities.

Its central location makes it suitable for visitors who want luxury accommodation while remaining in the heart of Dar es Salaam.

2. Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel — 5-Star

Location: Ohio Street, City Centre

Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the city's central business district.

It provides premium accommodation, restaurants, swimming pool facilities, gardens and conference facilities.

This is an option for visitors who want a luxury hotel in a central Dar es Salaam location.

3. Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro — 5-Star

Location: Kivukoni Front

Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro is a 5-star waterfront hotel in Kivukoni.

Its location provides access to central Dar es Salaam and the waterfront, making it suitable for visitors looking for a premium city stay.

4. Sea Cliff Hotel

Location: Toure Drive, Masaki

Sea Cliff Hotel is an established upscale hotel in the Masaki area.

It is suitable for visitors who prefer a coastal environment, restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere while staying in Dar es Salaam.

Luxury Hotel Options

Hotel Category Area Suitable For
Johari Rotana 5-Star CBD / Kivukoni Luxury + central location
Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel 5-Star City Centre Luxury city stay
Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro 5-Star Kivukoni Luxury + waterfront
Sea Cliff Hotel Luxury Masaki Coastal luxury

How Much Does It Cost to Stay in a Hotel in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

For planning purposes, expect approximately USD 60–120 per night for budget hotels, USD 90–200 for mid-range hotels and USD 200–500+ for luxury 5-star hotels, although actual AFCON 2027 prices will depend on the hotel, date, room type and availability.

Category Exact Hotel Examples Indicative Price Per Night
Budget – 3-Star Chelsea Hotel, Peacock Hotel USD 60–120
Budget / City Hotel CBD Hotel USD 60–120
Mid-Range – 4-Star Golden Tulip Dar City Center USD 90–180
Mid-Range – 4-Star Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam USD 100–200
Mid-Range Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard USD 90–170
Luxury – 5-Star Johari Rotana USD 200–400+
Luxury – 5-Star Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel USD 200–500+
Luxury – 5-Star Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam USD 200–500+

These are indicative planning ranges and not confirmed AFCON 2027 hotel rates. Tournament-period prices can change depending on demand, availability, room category and booking date.

Which Area Is Best for AFCON Matchdays in Dar es Salaam?

The City Centre and Kivukoni are practical choices for visitors who want central accommodation, but the most important factor on matchdays is having a reliable transport plan to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is one of Tanzania's officially identified AFCON 2027 competition centres, and CAF has inspected the stadium as part of the tournament preparations.

Before booking your hotel, consider:

  • Match kick-off time

  • Hotel location

  • Route to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium

  • Expected traffic

  • Private transport availability

  • Return transport after the match

  • Whether you have another match the following day

A hotel that looks close on a map may still require considerable travel time during busy periods.

Where Should You Stay for a Short AFCON 2027 Visit to Dar es Salaam?

For a short one- or two-night visit, City Centre and Kivukoni are practical choices because they provide central accommodation and easy access to many city facilities.

Budget

Chelsea Hotel or Peacock Hotel

Mid-Range

Golden Tulip Dar City Center

Luxury 5-Star

Johari Rotana, Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel or Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam

The shorter your stay, the more important hotel location becomes because you have less time to spend travelling around the city.

Where Should You Stay for a Longer AFCON 2027 Stay in Dar es Salaam?

For a longer stay, Oyster Bay, Msasani and Masaki provide more options for restaurants, leisure activities and a coastal atmosphere, while City Centre remains convenient for visitors who prefer a central location.

A longer stay gives you more flexibility to choose your hotel based on the overall experience rather than only the distance to your match venue.

Oyster Bay

Suitable for:

  • Couples

  • Families

  • Coastal atmosphere

  • Restaurants

  • Longer stays

Msasani

Suitable for:

  • Leisure

  • Restaurants

  • Waterfront environment

  • Visitors who prefer a quieter area

Masaki

Suitable for:

  • Luxury stays

  • Restaurants and cafés

  • Nightlife

  • Coastal environment

Is Kivukoni a Good Area to Stay During AFCON 2027?

Yes, Kivukoni is a practical area for visitors who want a central waterfront location in Dar es Salaam.

The area is useful for visitors who want access to central city facilities and the waterfront.

Hotels to Consider in Kivukoni

Luxury 5-Star:

  • Johari Rotana

  • Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro

These hotels provide premium accommodation within the central Dar es Salaam area.

Is the City Centre a Good Area to Stay During AFCON 2027?

Yes, the City Centre is one of the most practical areas for visitors who want central accommodation, restaurants, business facilities and access to major city services.

Hotels to Consider

Budget:

  • Chelsea Hotel

  • Peacock Hotel

  • CBD Hotel

Mid-Range:

  • Golden Tulip Dar City Center

  • Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard

Luxury 5-Star:

  • Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel

  • Johari Rotana

Is Oyster Bay a Good Area to Stay During AFCON 2027?

Yes, Oyster Bay is suitable for visitors who want a quieter coastal environment while remaining within Dar es Salaam.

The area is particularly suitable for couples, families and visitors staying for several nights.

Hotel to Consider

Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam — 4-Star

Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam

The hotel is located on Toure Drive and provides a coastal setting with hotel facilities suitable for both business and leisure stays.

Is Masaki a Good Area to Stay During AFCON 2027?

Yes, Masaki is suitable for visitors who want upscale accommodation, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and a coastal atmosphere.

Masaki is more suitable for visitors who want their AFCON trip to include leisure time in Dar es Salaam rather than simply attending football matches.

Hotel to Consider

Sea Cliff Hotel

The hotel provides an established coastal accommodation option in the Masaki area.

Is Msasani a Good Area to Stay During AFCON 2027?

Yes, Msasani is suitable for visitors who want a quieter coastal area with restaurants and leisure facilities while staying in Dar es Salaam.

Msasani can be particularly comfortable for families and couples who are staying for several nights.

Hotel Options

Visitors can consider accommodation around the Msasani and Slipway area, including:

  • Hotel Slipway

  • Delta Hotels Dar es Salaam

Delta Hotels Dar es Salaam

Which Hotel Is Suitable for Couples During AFCON 2027?

Couples can choose between a central luxury hotel such as Johari Rotana or Hyatt Regency and a coastal hotel such as Sea Cliff Hotel, depending on whether they prioritize central access or a leisure atmosphere.

Central Luxury

Johari Rotana

Waterfront Luxury

Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro

Coastal Luxury

Sea Cliff Hotel

The choice mainly depends on whether the couple wants to spend more time around central Dar es Salaam or in the coastal areas.

Which Hotel Is Suitable for Families During AFCON 2027?

Families should choose a Dar es Salaam hotel with suitable room sizes, family accommodation, restaurants and convenient transport rather than choosing solely according to star rating.

Budget

Chelsea Hotel or Peacock Hotel

Mid-Range

Golden Tulip Dar City Center or Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam

Luxury 5-Star

Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam or Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel

Before booking, families should confirm the maximum number of guests allowed in each room and whether connecting or family rooms are available.

Which Hotel Is Suitable for Business and AFCON Visitors?

Visitors combining business activities with AFCON can consider City Centre and Kivukoni hotels because these areas provide access to Dar es Salaam's business district.

Suitable options include:

  • Golden Tulip Dar City Center

  • Johari Rotana

  • Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel

  • Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam

These properties offer business-oriented facilities in addition to accommodation.

What Should You Check Before Booking a Dar es Salaam Hotel for AFCON 2027?

Before booking, check the hotel's exact location, room category, cancellation policy, breakfast, transport arrangements, total price and availability for your exact AFCON dates.

You should also check:

  • Hotel address

  • Distance and route to your match venue

  • Check-in and check-out times

  • Breakfast availability

  • Wi-Fi

  • Airport transfer

  • Parking

  • Swimming pool if important to you

  • Family room availability

  • Cancellation conditions

  • Payment requirements

  • Taxes and service charges

  • Transport after evening matches

How Early Should You Book a Dar es Salaam Hotel for AFCON 2027?

Book your hotel as soon as your AFCON travel dates are confirmed, especially if you want a particular 5-star hotel, room type or specific neighbourhood.

CAF and Tanzania are continuing preparations for AFCON 2027, including hotels and supporting infrastructure. CAF's September 2026 inspection covered hotels, airports, stadiums and other facilities in Tanzania.

Booking early gives you more choice among:

  • Budget hotels

  • 3-star hotels

  • 4-star hotels

  • 5-star hotels

  • Family rooms

  • Suites

  • Waterfront hotels

  • City-centre hotels

What Is the Best Hotel Category for AFCON 2027 in Dar es Salaam?

Budget hotels are suitable for visitors who mainly need affordable accommodation, mid-range hotels provide a balance between comfort and price, while 5-star hotels provide premium facilities and services.

Budget – 3-Star

Consider:

  • Chelsea Hotel

  • Peacock Hotel

  • CBD Hotel

Mid-Range – 3/4-Star

Consider:

  • Golden Tulip Dar City Center

  • Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam

  • Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard

Luxury – 5-Star

Consider:

  • Johari Rotana

  • Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel

  • Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro

What Are the Main Things to Do in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

AFCON visitors staying in Dar es Salaam can combine their football experience with the city's waterfront, restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions and local entertainment.

Depending on your available time, you can explore:

  • Dar es Salaam city centre

  • Kivukoni waterfront

  • Kariakoo Market

  • National Museum of Tanzania

  • Village Museum

  • Coco Beach

  • Oyster Bay

  • Masaki

  • Slipway

  • Local restaurants and cafés

  • Dar es Salaam's waterfront areas

This allows visitors to experience Dar es Salaam beyond the football stadium.

Why Choose Kilipori Safaris for Your Dar es Salaam AFCON 2027 Stay?

Kilipori Safaris can help visitors plan their Dar es Salaam accommodation and local transport around their AFCON 2027 schedule.

We can assist with:

  • Hotel selection

  • Budget hotel options

  • Mid-range hotel options

  • Luxury 5-star hotel options

  • Airport transfers

  • Hotel transfers

  • Matchday transport planning

  • Dar es Salaam city experiences

  • Customized Dar es Salaam stays

Our goal is to help you choose accommodation based on your exact dates, budget, preferred area and match schedule.

Booking WhatsApp: +255 755 287 311

What Does Kilipori Safaris Recommend: Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027?

Kilipori Safaris recommends choosing your Dar es Salaam hotel according to your budget, preferred neighbourhood and matchday transport requirements.

For Budget Travelers

Chelsea Hotel or Peacock Hotel are practical central options to consider.

For Mid-Range Travelers

Golden Tulip Dar City Center is a practical central 4-star option, while Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam provides a 4-star coastal setting.

For Luxury 5-Star Travelers

Johari Rotana, Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro are established 5-star options in central Dar es Salaam.

For a Coastal Atmosphere

Consider Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam, Hotel Slipway, Delta Hotels Dar es Salaam or Sea Cliff Hotel, depending on your preferred level of accommodation and location.

Discover East Africa, Live the Extraordinary.

FAQs About Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam During AFCON 2027

Where is the best area to stay in Dar es Salaam during AFCON 2027?

The City Centre and Kivukoni are practical for central access, while Oyster Bay, Msasani and Masaki are suitable for visitors who prefer a coastal and leisure-oriented environment.

Which budget hotels can I stay in during AFCON 2027?

Chelsea Hotel, Peacock Hotel and CBD Hotel are budget-friendly city accommodation options to consider in Dar es Salaam.

Which 4-star hotels can I stay in?

Golden Tulip Dar City Center and Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam are 4-star hotel options in Dar es Salaam.

Which 5-star hotels are available in Dar es Salaam?

Johari Rotana, Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro are 5-star hotel options to consider.

How much does a hotel cost in Dar es Salaam during AFCON 2027?

Planning ranges are approximately USD 60–120 for budget hotels, USD 90–200 for mid-range hotels and USD 200–500+ for luxury 5-star hotels per night. Actual prices will depend on the hotel, date, room type and availability.

Which area is closest to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium?

The most suitable hotel area should be determined by the actual route and matchday traffic rather than simply choosing a hotel based on its neighbourhood name. Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is the Dar es Salaam AFCON competition venue identified in Tanzania's official preparations.

Is City Centre a good place to stay during AFCON?

Yes. City Centre provides a central base with access to hotels, restaurants, business facilities and other city services.

Is Kivukoni a good place to stay during AFCON?

Yes. Kivukoni is suitable for visitors who want a central waterfront location and premium hotel options.

Is Oyster Bay a good place to stay during AFCON?

Yes. Oyster Bay is suitable for visitors who prefer a quieter coastal environment within Dar es Salaam.

Is Masaki a good place to stay during AFCON?

Yes. Masaki is suitable for visitors looking for restaurants, cafés, entertainment and an upscale coastal environment.

Is Msasani a good place to stay during AFCON?

Yes. Msasani is suitable for visitors who prefer a relaxed coastal area with restaurants and leisure facilities.

Which hotel is best for a budget AFCON trip?

Chelsea Hotel and Peacock Hotel are practical budget options to consider.

Which hotel is best for a mid-range AFCON trip?

Golden Tulip Dar City Center and Golden Tulip Dar es Salaam are useful mid-range options to consider.

Which hotel is best for a luxury AFCON trip?

Johari Rotana, Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam are established 5-star options to consider.

Should I book my Dar es Salaam hotel early?

Yes. Early booking gives you more choice of hotel, room type, location and dates, particularly if you want a specific 5-star property.

What should I check before booking?

Check the hotel's exact location, room type, cancellation policy, breakfast, transport arrangements, total price and availability for your exact AFCON dates.

Can Kilipori Safaris help me choose a hotel in Dar es Salaam?

Yes. Kilipori Safaris can help you compare Dar es Salaam accommodation according to your budget, preferred area, match schedule and transport requirements.

Book your Dar es Salaam AFCON 2027 stay with Kilipori Safaris - Discover East Africa, Live the Extraordinary.

Written and reviewed by

KiliPori Safaris Travel Team

A local Tanzania team helping travellers plan wildlife safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs and Zanzibar holidays with clear routing and direct destination support.

Published September 23, 2026. Travel conditions, fees and schedules can change; confirm time-sensitive details before departure.

Plan with local experts

Turn this travel research into a Tanzania itinerary built around you

Tell us your dates, group size and preferred experiences. Our local team will recommend suitable routing, trip length and accommodation options.

Ask a Tanzania Specialist
Anything you would like to ask?Chat with us
Article link copied