Songea

Located in the picturesque south of Tanzania, the city of Songea is the administrative centre of the Ruvuma region and an important point on the map for lovers of non-trivial routes. It is not just a transit hub, but a distinctive destination where one can experience the country's daily life and feel its true rhythm, far away from crowded resorts.

Songea is often chosen as a convenient starting point for journeys to the majestic Lake Nyasa or the reserves of the southern circuit. The city offers guests an immersion into local culture, an introduction to the historical heritage of the region, and serves as a comfortable stopover before new discoveries in this part of Africa.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. The city has its own airport, Songea (IATA code: SGX), which receives regular domestic flights.

Since the airport is a small regional hub, there are no direct international flights here. Travellers arriving in Tanzania from abroad typically need to make a transfer in Dar es Salaam. This is the most popular route, allowing you to save a significant amount of time compared to overland travel.

In rare cases, if tickets for a direct flight are unavailable, one might consider flying to neighbouring major cities such as Mbeya or Iringa. However, it is worth noting that from these points, you will have to reach your final destination by bus or car, which will take several hours.

There is no direct railway connection to the city of Songea, as railway tracks have not been laid through this part of the country. Travellers who prefer trains will have to plan a composite route with a transfer to a bus or car.

The optimal point for such a transfer is the town of Makambako, located on the TAZARA railway line. This is the closest station to the destination from where one can continue the journey by road. The trip from Makambako to Songea by bus will take several hours, allowing you to enjoy the views of southern Tanzania.

Bus travel is the most economical way to get to Songea, allowing you to see the real life of the country from the transport window. The most popular services depart from the city of Mbeya. Travellers should be patient: covering a distance of about 500 kilometres on winding roads usually takes from 8 to 10 hours, effectively taking up the entire daylight period.

The route from Iringa is also in demand, but here too, the road will require significant time due to the terrain features of southern Tanzania. For those seeking unconventional paths, a cross-border transfer from the Mozambican city of Lichinga is possible. This is a trip for hardy tourists: considering the distance and necessary border formalities, it often lasts more than 10 hours. It is better to purchase tickets for any direction in advance at bus station ticket offices, as seats are quickly bought up by local residents.

Travelling by car through the Southern Highlands will provide unforgettable views, turning the road into a separate adventure. The drive to Songea from the city of Mbeya, covering about 420 kilometres, usually takes 6–7 hours, while the scenic route from Iringa (480 km) will require about 8 hours of attentive driving on local highways.

For travellers heading from the direction of Mozambique, the route through the city of Lichinga is convenient: the distance is approximately 350 kilometres, which is equivalent to 6–7 hours of driving, excluding the time for border crossing. Hiring a private taxi for such long distances is possible, but there are no fixed tariffs — the cost of the trip is always negotiable and often starts from 150–200 US dollars, depending on your bargaining skills.

A trip to Songea offers a unique experience of discovering authentic southern Tanzania, but for a comfortable stay, several local peculiarities should be considered. To ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate in the region is quite mild, but due to its location at an elevation, evenings and nights can be cool. It is recommended to bring comfortable modest clothing made of natural breathable fabrics for the day, as well as a light jacket or sweater for evening walks. During the rainy season (from December to April), a raincoat or umbrella will definitely come in handy.
2. Transport. To move around the city, locals most often use motorcycle taxis called "boda-boda" — this is a fast and inexpensive way to get anywhere. "Dala-dala" minibuses also operate; they are cheaper but often overcrowded. You should always agree on the price of a taxi or motorcycle ride with the driver in advance.
3. Finances. In Songea, cash is king. Bank cards are accepted only in a few high-level hotels. ATMs exist in the city centre, but they may not work or may not accept certain foreign cards, so it is always better to carry a supply of Tanzanian shillings, broken down into small notes.
4. Health and Safety. As in many regions of the country, there is a risk of malaria, so be sure to use repellents and sleep under a mosquito net. Drink only bottled water. The city is generally safe, but tourists are not advised to walk alone on unlit outskirts after dark.
5. Communication. The official language is English, but Swahili dominates in everyday life and markets. Many locals know English at a basic level, but for better mutual understanding, it is useful to learn a few greeting phrases, for example, "Jambo" (Hello) or "Asante" (Thank you).
6. Local Etiquette. Tanzanians are very polite and value respectful behaviour. Greeting is an important part of the culture, so do not forget to say hello before asking a question. Use only your right hand for eating or passing money, as the left hand is considered "unclean" — a custom highly respected in local culture.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph local residents without their explicit permission — this may cause conflict. It is also strictly forbidden to photograph police stations, military facilities, and administrative buildings. Avoid revealing clothing when visiting public places so as not to offend local traditions.
8. Additional Tip. Songea is known for its history of resistance against colonisers. Be sure to find time to visit the Maji Maji National Museum to better understand the spirit of this city and the Ruvuma region.

Following these simple rules will help you adapt faster to the local rhythm of life and avoid misunderstandings. Openness and respect for the traditions of local residents will open the doors to the true hospitality of Songea.