Kigoma to Arusha
Traveling from Kigoma to Arusha in Tanzania takes you across a diverse and fascinating landscape, offering a glimpse of the varied geography, cultures, and historical significance of both regions. The journey spans over 1,000 kilometers and can be done by road, rail, or air, each providing a unique experience.
Kigoma: A Hidden Gem by Lake Tanganyika
Kigoma, located in the far western part of Tanzania, is an important town due to its strategic location on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater lakes.
Historically, Kigoma has been a vital link for trade and transport between Tanzania and neighboring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. The town serves as a port for boats and ferries, connecting various points along the lake’s shores.
Kigoma is known for its relatively laid-back atmosphere compared to larger cities in Tanzania, making it an excellent base for exploring natural and historical attractions. It is the gateway to Gombe Stream National Park, one of the smallest but most famous national parks in Tanzania, thanks to Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research on chimpanzees. The park is located a short boat ride from Kigoma and offers an intimate experience of wildlife, especially the chimpanzees for which it is famous.
The Journey: From Kigoma to Arusha
Traveling overland from Kigoma to Arusha is a lengthy journey but offers an opportunity to see rural Tanzania up close. If you take the road route, you will traverse a mix of rugged terrain, forests, and expansive plains.
The road trip can take up to 20-24 hours depending on the route, road conditions, and stops. The most direct route typically passes through Tabora, Singida, and Babati, covering both tarmac and gravel roads.
Another option is to take the train, which offers a slower but scenic way to reach the eastern parts of Tanzania.
The central railway line, managed by Tanzania Railways Corporation, links Kigoma to Dar es Salaam, passing through major stops such as Tabora and Dodoma.
Once in Dodoma or Dar es Salaam, travelers can take buses or flights to Arusha.
For those seeking a quicker journey, flights between Kigoma and Arusha are available but often involve a transfer in Dar es Salaam.
The flight reduces travel time significantly to just a few hours compared to the overland options.
However, flying doesn’t provide the same immersion into the changing landscapes and local culture.
Arusha: The Safari Capital
Upon arriving in Arusha, travelers are met with a bustling city that contrasts with the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika. Located in the northern region of Tanzania, Arusha serves as the gateway to some of Africa’s most famous national parks and wildlife reserves. Mount Meru, standing tall over the city, provides a stunning backdrop and offers hiking opportunities for adventurers.
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Arusha to Kigoma KM
Arusha and Kigoma are 800 km from each other, as the crow flies, but by road, Kigoma is about 1,140 km from Arusha: no short travelling distance.
The easiest way to get from Arusha to Kigoma is by air, though this is not the cheapest way.
There are no direct flights between Arusha and Kigoma, but you can fly Air Tanzania between these two cities. This journey with Air Tanzania will include stops in both Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam.
If you want to travel by road or train from Arusha to Kigoma, you’d most probably have to catch a bus or train from Arusha to Dar es Salaam, and then have a second leg of this trip by bus or train from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma.
Photo credits: Novaland Tours