Kondoa - Discovering Tanzania

Travelling to Kondoa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kondoa, 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 Kondoa 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 Kondoa, 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 Kondoa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kondoa

Kondoa is a town and district located in the Dodoma Region of Tanzania, in East Africa. The district is predominantly rural, and is known for its rock paintings and archaeological sites. Kondoa is home to several ethnic groups including the Gogo, Kaguru, and Sandawe people, with Swahili being the widely spoken language. The town is situated on the central railway line that connects Tanzania's major cities, and it serves as a transit point for travelers heading to or from Dodoma, Tanzania's capital city. The climate is generally hot and dry, with rains falling between November and May. The town has basic amenities, with a few guesthouses, shops, and restaurants available for visitors.

What to visit in Kondoa

Kondoa is a town located in the Dodoma region of Tanzania and is known for its prehistoric rock paintings. Here are some of the tourist attractions in Kondoa along with their brief descriptions: 1. Kolo Rock Paintings - These are prehistoric rock paintings that are estimated to be more than 2,000 years old. The paintings depict humans, animals and other objects and are a significant example of African rock art.
2. Irangi Rock Paintings - These rock paintings are located about 40km from Kondoa and are also believed to be over 2,000 years old. They depict various life scenes, such as people hunting and performing rituals.
3. Hanang Mountain - This mountain is located about 70km from Kondoa and is a popular hiking destination. Its summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Kondoa Historical Museum - This museum showcases the history and culture of the local tribes. Visitors can see various artifacts and exhibits that depict life in Tanzania during the colonial period.
5. Tarangire National Park - This park is located about 100km from Kondoa and is known for its diverse wildlife, especially elephants and birds. Visitors can go on safari tours to observe the animals in their natural habitat.
6. Lake Manyara National Park - This park is located about 180km from Kondoa and is known for its flamingos, hippos and baboons. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris or game drives to spot wildlife.
7. Singida Museum - This museum is located about 150km from Kondoa and showcases the history of the Singida region. It features various artifacts, including traditional weapons and clothing.
Overall, Kondoa is a great destination for travelers interested in anthropology, history and nature.
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 Kondoa.

When to go on holiday to Kondoa

The best time to visit Kondoa in Tanzania is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This time is ideal for cultural trips, as well as hikes and outdoor activities, with warm and sunny days and cooler nights. The rainy season in the region starts in November and lasts until April, which makes the roads difficult to traverse and hiking trails might not be accessible. However, it is during this period that the hills turn green and it can be a great time for wildlife safaris.

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

How to get to Kondoa

The most common way to reach Kondoa in Tanzania is by taking a domestic flight from either Dar es Salaam or Arusha to Dodoma, which is the closest major city with an airport. From Dodoma, you can then take a public bus or hire a private taxi for the remaining 90 km of the journey.
Another option is to take a long-distance bus from Dar es Salaam or Arusha directly to Kondoa. The journey can take between 8-12 hours depending on the bus company and the road conditions.
It's also possible to hire a private car or take a shared private taxi from either Dar es Salaam or Arusha all the way to Kondoa. This can be more expensive but allows for more flexibility and comfort during the journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kondoa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kondoa

Kondoa is a region in Tanzania that is known for its diversity in terms of food. Here are some of the typical foods from Kondoa with a brief description of each: 1. Wali wa nazi - This is a typical rice dish that is cooked with coconut milk and spices for flavor. It is a staple dish in most Tanzanian homes and is often served with chicken or beef.
2. Ndizi kaanga - This is a fried banana dish that is popular in Kondoa. It is prepared by slicing ripe bananas, dusting them with flour, and then frying them until golden brown. It is often served as a snack or as a side dish.
3. Ugali - Ugali is a staple food in Tanzania and is made from cornmeal. It is usually served with a stew or vegetable dish, and is eaten by rolling it into small balls with the fingers.
4. Nyama choma - This is a grilled meat dish that is often served at parties or celebrations. The meat is usually marinated in spices and then grilled over an open flame until it is tender and juicy.
5. Mchicha - This is a spinach dish that is cooked with onion, tomato, and coconut milk for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
6. Chapati - Chapati is a type of flatbread that is similar to a tortilla. It is made with flour, water, and salt and is usually served with curry or a stew.
7. Pilau - This is a rice dish that is cooked with meat or vegetables and spices for flavor. It is often served at weddings and other special occasions.
Overall, these are just a few of the typical foods that you can find in the Kondoa region of Tanzania. They are all flavorful and delicious, and offer a glimpse into the diversity of Tanzanian cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in Tanzania here.

Is Kondoa an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in Tanzania, Kondoa is not particularly expensive. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as accommodation standards, transportation, and activities you plan on doing. Generally, prices for accommodations, food, and leisure activities in Kondoa are still relatively cheaper compared to more popular tourist destinations in Tanzania such as Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Kilimanjaro. However, it's still best to set a budget according to your needs and preferences to ensure that you make the most out of your trip and avoid overspending.

Where to find accomodation in Kondoa

There are several areas in Kondoa where you can find accommodation to visit the area. Some popular options for staying in Kondoa include: 1. Kondoa Town - This is the main town in the area, where you can find several guesthouses and hotels of different budgets.
2. Kolo Village - Located about 15km from Kondoa Town, Kolo Village offers some lodges and campsites with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
3. Irangi Village - This village is located southeast of Kondoa and offers some accommodation options such as campsites and guesthouses.
4. Chemchem Safari Lodge - This is a luxury lodge located about 20km outside Kondoa Town, offering a unique and secluded experience with stunning views of the area.
Overall, the best area to find accommodation in Kondoa will depend on your budget and travel preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Kondoa here:
Booking.com

Is Kondoa a safe destination for tourists?

Kondoa is relatively safe for tourists, but it's always essential to exercise caution and follow safety precautions to avoid any potential risks. It's advisable to keep a low profile, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and avoid wandering alone at night. Crime rates in Kondoa are relatively low, but you should stay alert at all times and avoid drawing attention to yourself by wearing flashy jewelry, carrying expensive gear, or openly showing large sums of cash. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with your local tour operator or hotel staff for any safety advice and recommendations specific to your itinerary.
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 Kondoa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kondoa the most?

Kondoa in Tanzania is best suited for travelers who are interested in history, archaeology, and culture. The main attraction in Kondoa is the rock art sites, which are believed to be one of the most extensive and well-preserved collections of prehistoric art in the world. Families, couples, and solo travelers with an interest in history and culture will enjoy Kondoa. It's not a place for those looking for nightlife or outdoor adventure activities. The town is relatively small and quiet, but the surrounding landscapes are picturesque and offer ample opportunity for hiking and scenic walks. Overall, if you are interested in exploring unique cultural destinations and fascinating historical attractions, then Kondoa is definitely worth visiting.

How to get around Kondoa

In Kondoa, Tanzania, you can move around using different types of transportation modes, depending on your preferences and level of comfort. The most common modes of transportation are buses, taxis, and motorcycles. Buses are a cheap and reliable option, and cover most areas of the town. Taxis are more comfortable and convenient, especially if you want to travel faster and avoid crowded buses. Motorcycles, also known as boda-bodas, are ideal for short-distance travels and can be a quicker alternative to taxis and buses. However, they may not be the safest option, so it's essential to ensure you're wearing a helmet and other protective gear.

What to see around Kondoa

Sure, here are some nice places to consider for a day trip from Kondoa in Tanzania: 1. Kolo Rock Paintings: Only 10 km away from Kondoa you can find the Kolo Rock Paintings, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are well-preserved, ancient rock paintings, depicting the lives of early Tanzanian Bantu-speaking peoples.
2. Irangi Hills: The Irangi Hills are located 30 km from Kondoa. They offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains.
3. Tarangire National Park: Only an hour's drive away from Kondoa, Tarangire National Park is a perfect destination if you are interested in wildlife. You can see elephants, lions, giraffes, and many other animals.
4. Babati Town: Babati town is located around 70 km from Kondoa. There, you can visit the Babati Waterfalls, which are very beautiful, and also explore the nearby hills.
5. Singida: Singida town is around 80 km from Kondoa. It’s known for its beautiful landscape and for a variety of waterfalls.
6. Lake Manyara National Park: Lake Manyara National Park is roughly 124 km from Kondoa. It’s well-known for the flamingos and other water birds that congregate around the lake.
I hope you find these suggestions useful!
For every travel information about Tanzania you can click here.

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