Kigoma Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Kigoma, Tanzania with our comprehensive travel guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, where to stay, and tips for a safe and healthy trip.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Kigoma, Tanzania

Kigoma is a small but thriving city in northwest Tanzania, located on the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika. Despite its size, Kigoma offers plenty of cultural, natural, and outdoor activities and is a popular destination for backpackers and wildlife enthusiasts. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will introduce you to Kigoma’s hidden gems and show you why it is worth exploring.

Introduction to Kigoma

Kigoma is a vibrant city, known for its bustling markets, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. With Lake Tanganyika to the west and the stunning Gombe Stream National Park to the north, Kigoma serves as a gateway to many of Tanzania’s best outdoor and wildlife experiences. Kigoma also has a rich history, having been a major trading center for slaves, ivory, and rubber during the colonial era.

List of Places to Visit in Kigoma

Whether you’re interested in culture, outdoor adventures, or wildlife, Kigoma has something for everyone. Here’s a list of must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Livingstone Museum: This small but fascinating museum houses a collection of tribal artifacts, including weapons, masks, and musical instruments.
  • Bismarck Rock: A prominent rock in the middle of Lake Tanganyika, Bismarck Rock was the site where the German explorer and statesman, Otto von Bismarck, planted the German flag in Tanzania in 1885.
  • Gombe Stream National Park: Made famous by Jane Goodall’s pioneering chimpanzee research, Gombe Stream National Park is home to a diverse range of primate species, including baboons and red colobus monkeys.

Natural Attractions of Kigoma: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Tanganyika: Africa’s deepest and longest lake is a must-visit destination in Kigoma. You can sail or kayak across the pristine waters, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or simply relax on the beach.
  • Kigoma Hilltop: For stunning panoramic views of Kigoma and Lake Tanganyika, visit Kigoma Hilltop. Enjoy the sunset and the breathtaking scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kigoma

For outdoor enthusiasts, Kigoma offers several scenic hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Mwasa Road: This steep and challenging route offers spectacular views of the lake and the city.
  • Mahale Mountains National Park: A remote park located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains is a great spot for hikers and trekkers.
  • Gombe Stream National Park: Home of a diverse range of primate species, Gombe Stream National Park offers several hiking trails.

Best Things to Do in Kigoma: Activities and Tours

Apart from the attractions mentioned above, Kigoma offers several activities and tours. Here are some fun things to do:

  • Chimpanzee Trekking: With several parks nearby, Kigoma is a great place to go on a chimpanzee trekking tour.
  • Fishing: Lake Tanganyika is home to over 200 species of fish, making it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Sunset Cruise: Watch the sunset over Lake Tanganyika while enjoying a relaxing boat ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kigoma

To help you make the most of your trip to Kigoma, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Livingstone Museum
2 Day trip to Mahale Mountains National Park
3 Go on a chimpanzee trekking tour
4 Relax on the beach at Lake Tanganyika
5 Go fishing on Lake Tanganyika
6 Visit Bismarck Rock and Gombe Stream National Park
7 Take a sunset cruise on Lake Tanganyika

Food and Drink Scene of Kigoma

Kigoma has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of local delicacies to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali: A popular side dish made from maize flour, ugali is a staple food in Tanzania.
  • Mshikaki: Grilled beef skewers seasoned with a spicy marinade.
  • Wali wa Nazi: Rice cooked in coconut milk and served with grilled fish or meat.

Local Beverages

  • Konyagi: A popular Tanzanian gin, Konyagi can be mixed with tonic water or fruit juice for a refreshing drink.
  • Chai: Tanzanian tea is strong and sweet, made with cloves, ginger, and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Kigoma: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kigoma has plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Jakobsen’s Beach: A popular guesthouse located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Jakobsen’s Beach is known for its friendly staff and beautiful views.
  • Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort: A luxurious resort with spacious rooms and a private beach.
  • Kigoma Hilltop Hotel: This hotel offers stunning views of the lake and the city, as well as comfortable rooms and great food.

What to Buy in Kigoma: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kigoma is known for its handicrafts, fabrics, and basketry. Here are some local products to bring home:

  • Kikoi: A colorful cotton wrap that can be used as a beach towel or shawl.
  • Tinga Tinga Art: A popular style of African art, Tinga Tinga paintings depict scenes from everyday life using bright colors and bold lines.
  • Soapstone Carvings: Hand-carved soapstone figurines and decorative objects are a popular souvenir in Tanzania.

Local Culture and Customs of Kigoma

Tanzania is a predominantly Muslim country, but Kigoma is home to several ethnic groups, including the Bantu and the Sukuma. Here are some customs and etiquette to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.
  • Greeting people with a handshake is common, or you can say “jambo,” which means hello.

Best Time to Visit Kigoma

The best time to visit Kigoma is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. The weather is cooler and drier, and wildlife spotting is easier. March to May is the rainy season, when hiking and biking trails are muddy, and wildlife is harder to spot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kigoma

Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kigoma:

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Learn a few phrases in Swahili.
  • Dress appropriately for the climate and culture.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without asking for their permission.
  • Touch or disturb wildlife.
  • Eat raw or undercooked meat.

Safety and Health

Like in any other destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety and health in Kigoma. Here are some tips:

Safety in Kigoma

  • Stay alert and avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Be aware of scams and pickpockets.

Health in Kigoma

  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
  • Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to prevent mosquito bites.
  • Carry a first-aid kit and any necessary medication.

Getting to Kigoma: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kigoma is located in northwest Tanzania, accessible by road, air, or boat. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Kigoma

Kigoma Airport is the main airport serving the city, with daily flights to Dar es Salaam.

Bus Stations Near Kigoma

Several long-distance bus companies operate in Tanzania, with buses connecting Kigoma to Dar es Salaam and other major cities.

Other Options

You can also reach Kigoma by boat from other ports in Tanzania, including Mwanza and Dar es Salaam.

How to Get Around in Kigoma

To get around Kigoma, you can hire a taxi or take a dala-dala, which is a shared minibus. Biking and walking are also good options, particularly in the city center.

Where to Go Next from Kigoma: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

From Kigoma, you can explore several nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Gombe Stream National Park: A beautiful park known for its chimpanzee research and hiking trails.
  • Mahale Mountains National Park: A remote park accessible only by boat, home to several primate species.
  • Katavi National Park: One of Tanzania’s most remote and unspoiled parks, Katavi is an excellent destination for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Kigoma is a beautiful and charming destination that deserves to be explored. From hiking and biking to cultural and wildlife attractions, this city has something to offer every type of traveler. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Kigoma, and discover the hidden gems of Tanzania.

The rail station. The rail station. The post office. The post office.