Kigoma - Discovering Tanzania

Travelling to Kigoma

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kigoma, a pretty good destination in Tanzania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kigoma and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kigoma, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Tanzania, here's everything to know about Kigoma for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kigoma

Kigoma is a town in western Tanzania located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, which is the second deepest in the world. The town is the capital of the Kigoma Region and is a major port and transportation hub for the area. It is also a gateway to Gombe Stream National Park, which is known for its chimpanzee population and beautiful forest scenery. The region has a mild tropical climate with an average annual temperature of around 25°C. The local economy is largely dependent on fishing, agriculture and tourism. Swahili is the most commonly spoken language in the area, but many people also speak English.

What to visit in Kigoma

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Kigoma, Tanzania: 1. Gombe Stream National Park - This is a great place to go chimpanzee trekking and see these intelligent creatures up close. It's also a beautiful park with forests and waterfalls.
2. Lake Tanganyika - This is the world's second-deepest lake and one of the most bio-diverse freshwater ecosystems in the world. It's a great place to go swimming, boating, or relaxing on the beach.
3. Kigoma Railway Museum - This museum has exhibits about the history of the railway that runs through Kigoma, including information about its construction and the laborers who built it.
4. Bismarck Rock - This is a unique rock formation that juts out of Lake Tanganyika and is a popular spot for taking photos.
5. Livingstone Museum - This museum is located in nearby Ujiji and is dedicated to the life and travels of famous explorer Dr. David Livingstone, who is said to have uttered the famous words "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?" here.
6. Mwamgongo Forest Reserve - This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and several bird species, and is a great spot for hiking and bird watching.
7. Ujiji - This town is famous for being the place where Stanley met Livingstone and has a number of historical sites, including a slave market and a colonial-era house. 8. Gombe Masito-Ugalla Conservation Area - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this conservation area protects the unique forest-savanna ecosystem of western Tanzania and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions and bushbuck.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Tanzania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kigoma.

When to go on holiday to Kigoma

The best time to go on holiday to Kigoma largely depends on your preference and the activities you would like to engage in. Kigoma experiences two rainy seasons, from March to May and November to January, which can make some activities challenging. The dry season, from June to October, is the peak season for tourism, with less rainfall and pleasant temperatures. During this time, visitors can participate in hiking and safari tours in the nearby Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks. The shoulder season in February and March and from October to November offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and fewer rain showers. However, it's still possible to visit Kigoma during the rainy season as long as you are prepared for wet conditions and potential transportation disruptions due to flooding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kigoma

To get to Kigoma, Tanzania, you have a few options depending on your starting location and preferred mode of transportation. By air: Kigoma airport (TKQ) has daily scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city. The flight takes about 2 hours and is operated by Auric Air, and Dar es Salaam is served by many international airlines such as Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and more. By train: Kigoma is also accessible via the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). Trains run between Dar es Salaam and Kigoma twice a week and the journey takes about 2 days. By bus: Several intercity bus companies operate in Tanzania, including Sumry (https://www.sumry.co.tz/) and Dar Express (https://www.darexpress.com/). Both companies have daily departures from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma. The bus journey takes approximately 14-16 hours. By car: You can rent a car in major cities such as Dar es Salaam and drive to Kigoma. The journey takes about 15 hours and the roads are mostly paved. However, driving in Tanzania can be a challenge due to poor road conditions and reckless driving.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kigoma, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kigoma

Sure, here are some typical foods from Kigoma, Tanzania: 1. Ugali: This is a staple food made of maize flour and boiled water. It's a thick, dough-like dish that's usually served with stews and cooked vegetables.
2. Wali na Maharage: This is a popular rice and beans dish. The rice is usually cooked with tomato sauce and spices, and the beans are stewed with onions, garlic, and coconut milk.
3. Ndizi Kaanga: This is a plantain dish that's fried with onions and tomatoes until it's tender and crisp. It's often served as a side dish with stews and curries.
4. Wakamba: This is a fish dish made from Lake Tanganyika. The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices, lemon juice, and salt, and then grilled or fried.
5. Nyama Choma: This is a grilled meat dish that's made with beef or goat. It's marinated in spices and then grilled over a charcoal fire until it's tender and juicy.
6. Mchicha: This is a dish made from leafy greens, such as spinach or collard greens. The greens are cooked with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes coconut milk.
7. Chapati: This is a flatbread that's similar to naan or pita bread. It's made from wheat flour, water, and oil, and then cooked on a griddle. It's often served with stews and curries.
You can find general info about typical foods in Tanzania here.

Is Kigoma an expensive destination for tourists?

Kigoma, Tanzania can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists in comparison to other places in Tanzania. This is because it is a remote area that is not well-connected to other parts of the country, which can increase transportation and accommodation costs. Additionally, there are limited tourist attractions in the area, which may not make it a worthwhile destination for all travelers. However, if you are interested in exploring the natural beauty of Lake Tanganyika or visiting nearby national parks such as Mahale Mountains or Gombe Stream, Kigoma can be a rewarding destination. It is best to research and compare prices and activities beforehand to budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Kigoma

Kigoma is located in the western part of Tanzania, bordering Lake Tanganyika. Therefore, it is best to look for accommodation options near or around the lake area, as well as in the central part of the city. Some popular areas to consider include Jakobsen Beach, Mvumi, and Kibirizi. These areas have a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including hotels, lodges, and guesthouses. It is also worth noting that some accommodation options may offer additional activities, such as boat trips and guided tours, to help you explore the surrounding areas.
You can check hotel prices at Kigoma here:
Booking.com

Is Kigoma a safe destination for tourists?

Kigoma is generally considered a safe place for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and at tourist sites. It's always a good idea to keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Additionally, it's important to follow local customs and laws, and be respectful of the local culture. Overall, with common sense and precautions, most visitors to Kigoma have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Tanzania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kigoma.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kigoma the most?

Kigoma is a great location for travelers who are interested in nature and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for families and couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to explore the natural beauty of Tanzania. Kigoma has the largest reserve of chimpanzees in Tanzania and also offers the opportunity to embark on a thrilling boat safari through Gombe Stream National Park. Additionally, Kigoma is a perfect destination for young people interested in world history, as it was a center of trade and a significant point along the African slave trade route. Therefore, Kigoma is an excellent destination for any traveler looking to connect with Tanzania's rich cultural and natural heritage.

How to get around Kigoma

In Kigoma, you can move around using various modes of transportation such as taxis, boda-bodas (motorcycles), dala-dalas (minibusses), and rented bicycles. Taxis are the most comfortable and reliable mode of transportation, but they can be expensive if you're traveling on a budget. Boda-bodas are fast and convenient, but they can be dangerous and uncomfortable in bad weather or rough roads. Dala-dalas are the cheapest option and are used by most locals, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Bicycles are a great option for exploring the town and nearby areas at your own pace and are available for rent in many places. It's best to choose a mode of transportation based on your budget, comfort level, and destination.

What to see around Kigoma

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kigoma: 1. Gombe Stream National Park - It's a chimpanzee sanctuary and home to some of the world's most famous primates.
2. Kakombe Waterfalls - is a beautiful waterfall with fresh water droplets and a setting surrounded by forest.
3. Lake Tanganyika - is a breathtaking freshwater lake known for its clear waters and fish diversity.
4. Kibirizi Beach - is a sandy beach offering panoramic views of Lake Tanganyika, a perfect place to relax and enjoy beautiful scenery.
5. Ujiji - is a town located close to Kigoma and is famous for being the place where the famous explorer Dr. Livingstone (Presumably) met with journalist Henry Stanley with the famous words “Dr. Livingstone I presume?”. It has many historical sites and museums to explore.
6. Mwamgongo Hill - is a hill located in Kigoma that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
7. Mahale Mountains National Park - is a remote park with beautiful mountains and pristine forests home to various primates including chimpanzees.
I hope this helps you organize your day trip from Kigoma. Let me know if you need any further assistance!
For every travel information about Tanzania you can click here.

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