Where to Find the Cheapest and Freshest Crabs in Da City – Best Deals & Seafood Markets
📍Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Seafood paradise alert! While we haven’t unlocked complete seafood freedom, crab lovers will be in heaven here. Juicy flower crabs are a steal at just 4,000-5,000 shillings per kilo (under 7 RMB per jin). But the real showstoppers are the mud crabs – sold in generous piles of 4 jin for only 10,000 shillings (about 26 RMB for 4-5 massive crabs)!
Their meat is incredibly firm and less salty than flower crabs. We’ve been indulging in crab feasts daily – pure bliss! Don’t miss the squid and cuttlefish either – three plump cuttlefish for just 12,000 shillings. Lobster is the splurge item at ~60,000 shillings per kilo (we passed since we couldn’t verify market prices).
Bonus find: groupers at 20,000 shillings for five, though we skipped them after our Egypt seafood marathon…
Dar es Salaam’s top seafood hotspots:
1. Dar es Salaam Fish Market – The ultimate local experience
2. Msasani Fish Market – Fresh catches galore
3. Mediterraneo Hotel’s Back Beach – Hidden gem for crab lovers
Pro tip: The ferry-adjacent Fish Market comes alive at dawn with an electrifying fish auction. Watch as vendors dramatically toss fish piles while fierce women bid with contagious energy. Payment happens with such flair you’d think they’re in a movie! Nearby, quirky shops sell shark tooth jewelry, vibrant seashells, and delicate sea urchin skeletons – perfect souvenirs.
For the best mud crab deals, hit Mediterraneo’s beach near Palm Village. These meaty treasures sell out fast though – early birds get the crustaceans! Vendors pack up by afternoon, so set that alarm.
Foodie bonus: Right beside Shaxian Snacks, discover a Northeastern BBQ haven. Their crab dishes and dumplings are legendary – your taste buds will thank you!
Extra tip: Bring small bills for easier bargaining, and don’t be shy to sample unfamiliar seafood – you might discover your new favorite! The vibrant atmosphere at these markets is as delicious as the seafood itself.
