The Pugu Hills are 15km (9 miles) southwest of Dar es Salaam. These lightly wooded forest reserves make ideal day or overnight trips from Dar es Salaam. These rare stands of coastal monsoon forest offer a stark contrast to the city. Accommodation can be found at Pugu Hills Nature Centre (tel: 07545 65498; website: www.puguhills.com), near to which are a series of short hiking trails and viewpoints overlooking the city.

Just off the coast are the islands of Bongoyo, Mbudya, Pangavini and Fungu Yasini, which are all part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve (website: www.marineparktz.com). Bongoyo, 7km (4.5 miles) north of Dar es Salaam, and Mbudya, 4km (2.5 miles) further up the coast, are the most frequently visited and have good beaches and swimming as well as snorkelling opportunities.