This 2-day itinerary offers a comprehensive guide on how to travel from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, Tanzania, either by train or flight. Whether you prefer a scenic train journey through Tanzania’s diverse landscapes or a quick and convenient flight, this itinerary will help you plan your trip efficiently. Along the way, you’ll learn about what to expect during your travel and get tips for making the most of your journey.
Day 01 :
Departing from Dar es Salaam
Morning: Departure by Train
- 6:00 AM: Arrive at Dar es Salaam Railway Station.
- 6:30 AM: Board the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) Central Line train to Kigoma.
- 7:00 AM: The train departs from Dar es Salaam, beginning your journey across Tanzania. Settle into your cabin, whether it’s First Class (private cabin), Second Class (shared cabin), or Third Class (bench seating).
- 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Enjoy the views as the train passes through the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, moving towards the central part of Tanzania. Have breakfast in the dining car and take in the sights.
Morning: Departure by Flight
- 7:00 AM: Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam.
- 8:00 AM: Check-in for your flight to Kigoma with Air Tanzania, Precision Air, or Auric Air.
- 9:30 AM: Board your flight and prepare for a quick 2-3 hour journey.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Enjoy aerial views of Tanzania, including the vast landscapes and Lake Tanganyika as you approach Kigoma.
Afternoon: Train Journey Continues
- 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM: The train continues through the heart of Tanzania, passing through towns such as Morogoro and Dodoma. Take time to relax in your cabin, read, or socialize with fellow travelers.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch is served in the dining car. Sample local dishes while enjoying the train's unique atmosphere.
- 4:00 PM: The train passes through scenic landscapes, including lush vegetation, hills, and small villages. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning views.
Afternoon: Arrival by Flight
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Land at Kigoma Airport (TKQ).
- 1:30 PM: After collecting your luggage, take a taxi or arranged transport to your hotel (Kigoma Hilltop Hotel or Lake Tanganyika Hotel).
- 2:00 PM: Check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Kigoma. Visit the local markets or take a walk along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
- 5:00 PM: Enjoy a lakeside dinner at your hotel, sampling fresh Tanganyika Fish and other local delicacies.
Evening: Overnight Train Journey
- 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM: The train continues its journey through Tanzania’s central regions. As night falls, enjoy dinner in the dining car and prepare for the overnight portion of your journey.
- 10:00 PM: Settle into your cabin for a restful night’s sleep as the train heads towards Kigoma.
Day 02 :
Arriving in Kigoma
Morning: Arrival by Train
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Wake up to the sight of the sun rising over the Tanzanian countryside. Have breakfast on the train as it approaches the Kigoma region.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The train arrives at Kigoma Railway Station. Disembark and take a taxi or pre-arranged transport to your hotel.
- 12:30 PM: Check into your hotel (Kigoma Hilltop Hotel or Lake Tanganyika Hotel).
- 1:00 PM: Relax at your hotel or take a leisurely walk along the lake. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Kigoma’s famous Makande.
Afternoon: Exploring Kigoma
- 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Spend the afternoon exploring Kigoma. Visit the Ujiji Museum, where the historic meeting between Stanley and Livingstone took place, or take a boat trip on Lake Tanganyika.
- 6:30 PM: Return to your hotel for dinner, featuring local specialties like grilled Tanganyika Fish.
Evening: Relax and Enjoy Kigoma
- 8:00 PM: Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a drink by the lake or taking in the peaceful atmosphere of Kigoma.
- Overnight: Stay at your chosen accommodation in Kigoma
