How to get to Kigoma

If you are looking for information on how to reach Kigoma, you are on the right path to discovering a significant port on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. This colourful city serves as the main gateway to famous national parks and attracts travellers with its history and scenic views. You can travel to Kigoma by choosing the most convenient transport option: from a quick flight to an atmospheric train journey or a bus ride.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach this region is by air. The city has its own small airport, Kigoma (TKQ), located in the eastern suburbs. It receives regular domestic flights and serves as a vital transport hub for travellers heading to Lake Tanganyika and the national parks.

There are usually no direct international flights to Kigoma. Tourists from other countries must first fly to one of Tanzania's major international airports, most often Dar es Salaam. From there, daily flights to Kigoma take about two to three hours, which saves significant time compared to travelling by train or bus.

For lovers of railway romance, a trip to Kigoma will be a true adventure. The city is the terminal station of the Central Line of the Tanzanian railway, so you can get here by a direct train from Dar es Salaam. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the country's atmosphere and see it from the inside, although one should be prepared for a long journey.

The journey takes a significant amount of time, often more than a day, but is compensated by the colourful views outside the window. The route passes through the diverse landscapes of East Africa, allowing passengers to enjoy the picturesque nature and observe the daily life of local settlements as the train leisurely moves towards the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring regions, offering tourists a budget-friendly and authentic way to travel around Tanzania. A popular domestic route runs from Mpanda: the distance of about 300 kilometres is covered in an average of 6–8 hours. There are also regular services from Mwanza, however, travellers should be prepared for a long journey, part of which may be on unpaved roads, which is compensated by the opportunity to watch the changing landscapes outside the window.

For those planning a complex route through East Africa, travel options are available from neighbouring states, for example, from Bujumbura. The road from the economic capital of Burundi, spanning about 200 kilometres, usually takes 5–6 hours, excluding time for border crossing. When choosing a bus, it is important to remember that the level of comfort may vary, so for long trips, it is recommended to check the service class in advance.

Travelling by car to Kigoma allows you to see the real Africa, where the scenery outside the window changes from dense forests to open plains. A convenient domestic route runs from the city of Mpanda: the distance of 297 kilometres is usually covered in 5 hours, although the time may vary depending on road conditions. The proximity of the border also makes a trip from Bujumbura accessible, from where a journey of about 283 kilometres will take approximately 5.5 hours.

For those ready for more serious challenges and long transfers, there is a route option from Kalemie, but it is worth considering that 693 kilometres of the way will require more than 16 hours on the road. Moving through the territory of Tanzania, many travellers prefer to hire an official taxi or rent an SUV with a local driver to comfortably overcome difficult sections of the path.

When planning a trip to Kigoma, it is useful to learn about local nuances in advance so that your holiday is as comfortable and safe as possible. This city in western Tanzania has its own unique rhythm of life, which is easy to get used to by following simple recommendations.

1. Clothing and Belongings: The climate here is warm and humid, so prefer light clothing made from natural breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Given the conservative local customs, women are advised to dress modestly, avoiding short skirts, while men should avoid wearing short shorts outside of beach areas.
2. Transport: To get around the city, it is most convenient to use "bajajis" (local auto-rickshaws) or "boda-boda" motorcycle taxis. This is an inexpensive and quick way to get to your destination, but be sure to agree on the exact price of the trip with the driver in advance, before boarding.
3. Finance: The main currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. Credit cards (mostly Visa) are accepted only in major hotels and some travel agencies, so always carry a sufficient supply of cash. ATMs are available in the city, but they may operate intermittently.
4. Health and Safety: Kigoma is in a malaria risk zone, so be sure to use repellents and sleep under a mosquito net. It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water—buy only bottled water with a sealed cap, even for brushing your teeth.
5. Communication: The official language of the country is Swahili, and although hotel staff and guides usually speak English, many locals do not. Learn a few basic words, such as "Jambo" (Hello) and "Asante" (Thank you)—this is a sign of respect that is highly appreciated.
6. Local Etiquette: In Swahili culture, greetings are very important: it is impolite to immediately move to a question or request without exchanging pleasantries. Remember that one should eat, greet, or pass money only with the right hand, as the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid: Never photograph local residents without their explicit permission; this can cause serious displeasure. It is also strictly forbidden to photograph police stations, military facilities, banks, and government buildings—this can lead to problems with the police.
8. Additional Tip: If you plan a trip to Gombe or Mahale National Parks to observe chimpanzees, book boats and permits in advance through official agencies in the city, as logistics on Lake Tanganyika can be complex and dependent on weather conditions.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and focus on the beauty of nature and the hospitality of the locals. Preparation for the trip is the key to ensuring that your acquaintance with the shores of Lake Tanganyika leaves only pleasant memories.