Mbeya Travel Guide

If you're looking for the ultimate destination in Tanzania, Mbeya offers just that! Check out this guide to learn what to do and where to go on your next trip to Mbeya.


Introduction to Mbeya

Mbeya is a beautiful region located in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania, East Africa. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich history, and welcoming people. This region is an excellent destination for tourists who are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. With its mix of hiking trails, beautiful scenery, and rich culture, Mbeya is the perfect place to explore and experience Tanzania’s beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Mbeya

The city of Mbeya is surrounded by breathtaking nature that is home to diverse wildlife, flora, and fauna. There is a long list of things to do and see in Mbeya, and we’ve compiled the top destinations for you.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mbeya is a hub of culture, and there are many historical and cultural sites to visit. Some of the must-visit sites include:

  • Mbozi Meteorite: This is the largest meteorite in Tanzania, weighing over 16 tonnes. It is believed to have landed on earth millions of years ago and is definitely worth a visit.
  • Livingstone Memorial: Located in the city center, this monument commemorates the famous Scotsman David Livingstone, who was the first European to explore the region.
  • Ruanda Hill: This site is home to ruins from the Iron Age era and has a unique collection of rock paintings, some of which are over 2,000 years old.

Natural Attractions of Mbeya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The region of Mbeya is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and plains. There are many must-visit natural attractions you can’t miss, including:

  • Kitulo National Park: Known as the ‘Garden of God,’ Kitulo National Park is one of Tanzania’s most spectacular parks, home to various species of flowers, including those that are only found in Tanzania.
  • Utengule Coffee Plantation: For coffee lovers, this plantation is home to Arabica coffee, which is known globally for its distinctive taste and aroma.
  • Igamba Falls: Located 58 kilometers from Mbeya, Igamba Falls is a stunning waterfall that cascades in three stages, surrounded by lush greenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mbeya

Mbeya is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with some of the most scenic trails and mountains on the African continent. Some of the most popular hiking and biking trails include:

  • Loleza Peak (2,496 meters): This trail is excellent for both hikers and bikers, with a well-marked path and a breathtaking view at the top.
  • Kiwanje (Jungle) Walks: This walk is famous for bird watching and has a series of trails that wind through the forest, with an excellent chance of seeing animal wildlife.
  • Mbeya Peak (2,800 meters): For brave hikers, this trail is the most challenging in the region, but the view of the city from the top is worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Mbeya: Activities and Tours

Tourists in Mbeya have access to various activities such as game drives, cultural tours, and adventure sports. Some of the best things to do in Mbeya include:

  • Game drives: With various national parks nearby, game drives are an excellent way to explore the rich wildlife in the region. Visitors can spot lions, elephants, buffalos, and various antelope species.
  • Cultural tours: Mbeya has a rich culture, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle through cultural tours. The tours include visiting homes, meeting locals, and attending festivals and events.
  • Canoeing and Rafting: Mbeya is home to many water bodies, including Lake Nyasa, which provides an opportunity for canoeing and rafting adventures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mbeya

For those planning a trip to Mbeya and not sure how to maximize time spent in the region, here is an itinerary of how to spend a week in Mbeya:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mbeya town and Livingstone Memorial
Day 2 Hike Loleza Peak
Day 3 Game drive in Katavi National Park
Day 4 Visit Utengule Coffee Plantation and Lake Nyasa
Day 5 Cultural tour of local villages
Day 6 Explore Kitulo National Park
Day 7 Hike Mbeya Peak

Food and Drink Scene of Mbeya

Mbeya offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in and taste local delicacies. The region is famous for its coffee, herbal tea, and honey. If you are not sure of what to try, here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali and Ndizi Nyama: This is a staple in Tanzania, consisting of maize meal and meat served with plantains.
  • Kuku Choma: Grilled chicken is a popular dish that is sold in street food vendors in the region.
  • Nyama Choma: Roasted meat that is grilled over open fire, accompanied by various sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Tanzanian Coffee: Tanzania is the fourth-largest producer of coffee globally, and the coffee produced in Mbeya is of excellent quality and flavor.
  • Mbege: This is a fermented traditional brew made from millet, maize, and sorghum.
  • Chai: If you are looking for a hot beverage, then chai tea is the way to go.

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

There are various accommodation options in Mbeya, catering to tourists’ needs, depending on their budget and preferences. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Mbeya Hotel: This hotel is located in the city center, with good access to various attractions.
  • Green Valley Guesthouse: Located in a quiet area, this guesthouse offers serenity and peace.
  • Shala Lodge: This is a beautiful lodge located on the outskirts of Mbeya, which provides access to various hiking trails and outdoor activities.

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

Mbeya is rich in culture and art, providing various opportunities to buy unique souvenirs to bring home. Some of the things to buy include:

  • Tingatinga paintings: These are colorful and vibrant paintings that are iconic in Tanzania.
  • Makambako Tea: For tea lovers, Makambako is a famous tea-growing region, and buying authentic tea is an excellent souvenir.
  • Baskets: Woven baskets are commonly made by the locals in Mbeya, and buying one would make a perfect gift or souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Mbeya

Mbeya is home to various ethnic groups with different customs and traditions. The most significant ethnic group is the Safwa, who are known for their traditional dances and music.

When visiting local villages, visitors are expected to show respect and adhere to the customs and traditions. For instance, women are expected to dress modestly, and it is common to greet elders with a handshake.

Best Time to Visit Mbeya

The best time to visit Mbeya is from June to October, which is the dry season. The region experiences heavy rains between March and May, which can make outdoor activities challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mbeya

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting local villages and temples.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Respect the customs and traditions of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection in public areas.
  • Take photographs of people without their consent.
  • Disrespect the elders.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mbeya

Mbeya is a relatively safe region, although visitors should take basic precautions like they would in any city. Avoid carrying expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Mbeya

Visitors are required to get a yellow fever vaccine before visiting Tanzania. Malaria is prevalent in the region, and visitors are advised to carry mosquito nets and insect repellent. Visitors should also consider bringing sunscreen and stay hydrated with bottled water.

Getting to Mbeya: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mbeya is accessible by various transportation means, including road, rail, and air.

Airports Near Mbeya

The Mbeya Airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center and offers regular flights to Dar es Salaam and other regions in Tanzania.

Bus Stations Near Mbeya

Major bus stations in the city include Mbeya Bus Terminal and Mwanjelwa Bus Terminal. The buses ply various destinations in Tanzania and neighboring countries like Zambia and Malawi.

Other Options

Taxis and bike rentals are prevalent in the city, and they are an affordable and convenient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Mbeya

To get around the region, there are various transportation options for visitors. Buses, taxis, and motorbikes are prevalent in the region, providing access to various destinations.

Where to Go Next from Mbeya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After a fantastic time in Mbeya, visitors can explore other regions in Tanzania, including:

  • Mikumi National Park: Located north of Mbeya, Mikumi National Park is an impressive array of landscapes, including open savannah grasslands and water bodies.
  • Zanzibar: Often referred to as the ‘Island of Spices,’ Zanzibar is home to stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and a rich history.
  • Kilimanjaro: For the adventure enthusiast, climbing the highest mountain in Africa is an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Mbeya is an exceptional destination for travelers who want to explore Tanzania’s natural beauty, culture, and history. The region provides a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for visitors of all ages. With this guide, you can now plan your trip to Mbeya confidently, knowing what to expect and what to explore.