Look for the blue house on the corner next to Indian Ocean Apartments.
We are located at 7 Mlali Road, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
5 Minutes to Coco Beach • Poolside Chill • Instant Traveler Friends
Best Budget Hostel in Masaki, Dar es Salaam - Steps from Coco Beach
Wake up to ocean breezes, swap stories by our pool, and explore Tanzania’s heartbeat
all from your safe, lively, and affordable home base in Masaki
4,9 Voted ‘Best Social Hostel’ by Travelers!The Cappa
Saltwater pool | Tropical breakfast | Airport transfers
Your Perfect Tanzanian Adventure Basecamp
Welcome to Gallivanters Hostel – where salty ocean hair, spontaneous rooftop sundowners, and lifelong travel friendships begin. Nestled in vibrant Masaki (Dar es Salaam's coolest district), we're:✅ 3 minutes to golden sands at Coco Beach
✅ 5 minutes to Dar's best reggae bars & seafood grills
✅ The #1 choice for backpackers who want more than just a bed
Rooms
More Than Just a Bed
Your Travel Experience Toolkit
Wake Up to Adventure, Come Home to Comfort
Dip & Dream Pool
Cool off after safari dust or beach hops in our saltwater oasis – complete with sun loungers, poolside cocktails, and spontaneous traveler meetups.
(Free) Tropical Breakfast
No sketchy street food mornings: Fuel your adventures with fresh mango, crispy toast, and strong Tanzanian coffee – included in every stay.
Stress-Free Airport Pickups
Land exhausted? We track your flight for delays and whisk you to the hostel in our AC van
Netflix-Strong WiFi
Upload safari pics, video-call mom, or work remotely with fiber-fast speeds (we test it daily – no buffering excuses!).
24/7 Guardian Angels
Late-night check-in? Early tour? Lost phone charger? Our staff lives onsite to solve any crisis, anytime.
Magic Laundry Service
Hand us dirty clothes at breakfast – get fresh, folded laundry by sunset (perfect for multi-day safari prep!).
Sneak Peek
Your Future Memories
Why people recommend us
Testimonials
Had a really nice stay for about a week here. Staff is really nice and rooms are also good and clean, including airconditioning which is nice. Plenty of space to relax on your own or with other people to meet some other travellers..
Highly recommended!
Tab SubtitleI have stayed at Gallivanters Hostel in Dar three times now, and I will definitely be returning! The hostel is exceptionally clean and has a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. The staff is incredibly friendly and goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is enjoyable. A special shoutout to KB, MC, Pendo, and the entire team for their exceptional hospitality—you all are fantastic! I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a reliable and friendly place to stay in Dar. You won’t regret it!
So affordable!
Tab SubtitleI had a fantastic stay at Gallivanters Hostel! From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel right at home – they’re warm, welcoming, and always ready to help with any questions or recommendations. The hostel itself is clean, with comfortable rooms and common areas that are perfect for relaxing or meeting fellow travelers. Also the location of the hostel is really nice. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around.
Highly recommended!
Tab Subtitle
📍 Prime Location – Everything at Your Doorstep
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2 min to Coco Beach
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5 min to best bars & restaurants
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15 min to downtown Dar
want to checkout our comprehensive guide?
💡 Still Deciding? Here’s the Deal:
You could book a random hostel… or you could secure:
✅ The best social vibe in Dar
✅ A prime location near the beach
✅ A pool, free breakfast, and fast WiFi
✅ A guaranteed unforgettable trip
Don’t settle. Book Gallivanters now.
P.S. Our dorms fill up fast—especially in peak season. Reserve your spot before it’s gone!
Our Blog
Your Gateway to Dar es Salaam
When you think of Dar es Salaam, you might picture vibrant markets, sun-kissed beaches, and the bustling rhythm of East Africa. At Gallivanters Hostel, we bring all that and more right to your doorstep!
Best Attractions Near Gallivanters Hostel
As your home base at Gallivanters Hostel in Masaki, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the city’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and hidden gems. Whether you have just a weekend or a full week, here’s your local-approved guide
FAQs for Gallivanters Hostels
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Where is Gallivanters Hostel located?
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What is there to do in Masaki, Dar Es Salaam?
Masaki, Dar Es Salaam, is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a mix of vibrant nightlife, cultural experiences, and serene coastal escapes. Here's a detailed guide on what to do in this lively neighborhood:
Beaches and Relaxation**Coco Beach**: A favorite among locals and tourists, Coco Beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying street food. It’s a lively spot with incredible views of the Indian Ocean, especially at sunset.
Nightlife and EntertainmentMasaki’s nightlife is unmatched, offering something for everyone—from partygoers to those seeking a laid-back evening.
**Havoc Nightspot**: Known for its high-energy atmosphere, excellent music, and lively crowds, Havoc Nightspot is perfect for dancing the night away.
**Warehouse**: One of Masaki’s trendiest nightclubs, Warehouse offers a chic vibe, world-class DJs, and an unforgettable party experience.
**Samaki Samaki**: A unique mix of a seafood restaurant and nightlife hotspot, this venue combines great food with fun entertainment.
**The Waterfront Sunset Bar**: Ideal for a more relaxed evening, this bar lets you enjoy drinks with stunning ocean views.
**Wavuvi Kempu**: By night, Wavuvi Kempu transforms into a lively coastal party spot. Enjoy drinks, fresh seafood, and a chilled atmosphere that often features live music or DJs.
Day Trips and Adventures**Mbudya Island**: Just a short boat ride away, this idyllic island offers white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and some of the best snorkeling opportunities. Freshly grilled seafood is served on the beach, making it a perfect day trip.
Shopping and Dining**Slipway**: A beautiful waterfront complex offering boutique shops, souvenir markets, and restaurants. It’s perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying stunning views of the harbor.
**Shoppers Plaza Masaki**: A modern supermarket where you can stock up on essentials, enjoy a coffee, or shop for clothing and electronics.
Culture and HistoryMasaki is an excellent starting point for exploring Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.
**National Museum and House of Culture**: Located in central Dar Es Salaam, this museum showcases Tanzania’s history, including exhibits on its tribal cultures, colonial past, and paleontology (featuring discoveries by the Leakey family).
**Village Museum**: A hidden gem, this open-air museum gives visitors a glimpse into traditional Tanzanian village life. Explore replicas of tribal homes, learn about local traditions, and enjoy live cultural performances.
Family Fun**Kunduchi Water Park**: One of East Africa’s largest waterparks, this attraction offers exciting slides, pools, and activities for all ages. It’s an excellent option for families or anyone looking to cool off and have fun.
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What are the check-in and check-out times?Check-in: From 12:00 PM - anytime
Check-out: 11:00 AM
If you require early check-in or late check-out, please contact us in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you (subject to availability).
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Is Gallivanters Hostel pet-friendly?Yes! We welcome pets at our hostel. If you plan to bring your furry friend, please inform us in advance.
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Does the hostel provide Wi-Fi?Absolutely! We offer fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ideal for digital nomads and remote workers.
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Are linens and towels provided?Yes, all beds come with fresh linens, and towels are provided free of charge.
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Is there parking available?Yes, we have free on-site parking for guests. Spaces are limited, so let us know if you need a spot.
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What room options are available?We offer a variety of accommodations, including:
Shared dormitories (mixed, female-only, and male-only options)
Private rooms (Deluxe Room with ensuite bathrooms and Standard Twin Bedrooms with shared bathrooms)
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Do rooms have air conditioning?Yes, all our rooms are equipped with air conditioning to ensure your comfort.
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Is there a kitchen available for guests?Yes, we have a communal kitchen where guests can prepare their own meals. It’s fully equipped with basic appliances and utensils.
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Are there laundry facilities?Yes, we offer a laundry service for a small fee. Please inquire at the front desk for more details.
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How do I make a reservation?You can book directly through our website, third-party booking platforms, or by contacting us via email or phone.
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What payment methods do you accept?We accept cash, credit cards, and mobile payments (M-Pesa).
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Do you provide tours or transportation?We offer a shuttle service and can assist in organizing tours and day trips around Dar Es Salaam and nearby attractions. Please inquire at the front desk or message +255 785 022 284 on Whatsapp for tours/safari.
To get around the city independently download the Uber or Bolt app tor affordable transportation
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Are there supermarkets or convenience stores nearby?Yes, Shoppers Plaza Masaki is within walking distance, where you can find a variety of goods and groceries, ATM machines and a pharmacy.
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Are there any rules for staying at Gallivanters Hostel?Yes, we have a few rules to ensure everyone has a pleasant stay. These include:
No physical assault, theft, or disruptive behavior
No solicitation of illegal activities
Respect for other guests and staff
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Is the hostel safe?Absolutely! We take guest safety seriously. The hostel is equipped with security cameras, secure locks, and a 24-hour reception
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What should I do in case of an emergency?Please contact the front desk immediately for assistance.
Budget-friendly and sociable spaces for backpackers, digital nomads, solo and group travelers
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