The capital of the Kigoma region is a must on any trip to north-west Tanzania. Thanks to its airport, Kigoma is easily accessible from Dar Es Salaam. Its privileged location close to the Gombe Stream chimpanzee sanctuary, Mahale Mountain and Katavi National Park makes it an excellent gateway to the confidential safaris of the country’s western region. This unspoilt destination guarantees a unique adventure for travellers in search of authenticity.
The Kigoma region offers a different landscape from the traditional Tanzanian savannah. The vast plains give way to lush vegetation, a tropical climate and magnificent green hills. The chimpanzee is one of the emblematic species of the Kigoma region, which is very popular for primate and bird watching.
Kigoma is the ideal starting point for an encounter with the chimpanzees that live in the Gombe Stream and Mahale national parks. These protected reserves, which work to preserve Africa’s wild chimpanzees and many other apes, offer breathtaking scenery. Hiking these mountainous slopes through majestic rainforest up close to the chimpanzees will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Famous for its unique flora and fauna, the Kigoma region is also renowned for its history and commemorative historic sites. The Livingstone Museum is one of the town’s most emblematic sites. This site steeped in history is dedicated to the meeting between Livingstone and Stanley in 1871 and, more broadly, to the slave trade in East Africa.
On the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the town of Kigoma and its traditional markets plunge visitors into a colourful world. The scenes of life that unfold in the heart of the streets of this town with its rustic charm are synonymous with a change of scenery. A stay in Kigoma will give you the chance to discover the local culture and crafts in a very authentic way.
Lake Tanganyika is Kigoma’s main attraction. The fresh water of this iconic lake is particularly popular with fishermen and diving enthusiasts because of the colourful aquatic life it harbours. The natural beauty of Lake Tanganyika will also delight those who prefer to relax. The beach at Bangwe is an ideal place to relax, with magnificent sunsets at the end of the day.
Chimpanzee watching is the flagship activity in Mahale National Park, but the slopes of Mount Mahale are also very popular with hikers. Climbing this majestic mountain is an adventure in itself. The views from the summit are simply breathtaking, but the trek is also an opportunity to encounter a wealth of wildlife. An unforgettable experience for lovers of sport, nature and beautiful panoramas.
Hotels, lodges, campsites, authentic accommodation – there’s no shortage of places to stay in the region. Whether you’re looking for an immersive stay or a comfortable room, our advisors will find you the accommodation that best suits your needs!
There’s no shortage of things to do in Kigoma, so here are a few ideas for combining nature and culture during your stay:
In addition to its altitude, Kigoma is situated close to the equator. The city has therefore inherited a temperate tropical climate. The best time to visit Kigoma is during the dry season from June to October.
A small airport on the outskirts of Kigoma provides connections with Dar Es Salaam or Mwanza. If you have time to spare, you can fly fromArusha. The journey is longer, but it’s a real adventure.
The hundreds of kilometres of road and boat journey will be well worth it when you reach the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Kigoma is a culturally diverse town with a mix of rustic charm and colonial architecture.
While in Kigoma, be sure to visit the beach to buy souvenirs and meet the locals. If you have time to spare, a trip to the fish markets of Katonga, famous for its dried sardines, is a must.
One of the main reasons why visitors come to this town is that it’s right next to Lake Tanganyika. This freshwater lake is renowned for its fishing, but also for its diving sessions.
But if your holiday is all about relaxing, we recommend a visit to the Bangwe public beach, which is one of the most beautiful places to watch the sun set.
The town of Kigoma is a well-known departure point for excursions to Tanzania’s parks. You can head to Gombe or Mahale national parks to get excited about the idea of meeting chimpanzees.
In addition to its altitude, Kigoma is situated close to the equator. This is why the city has inherited a temperate tropical climate. The best time to visit Kigoma is during the dry season from June to October.
There is a small airport on the outskirts of Kigoma. This will allow you to connect with Dar es Salaam or Mwanza.
If you have time to spare, you can fly fromArusha; the journey is longer but ideal for adventurers who can adapt.
There is no shortage of accommodation in the region. Our advisers will find you the one that best suits your needs!
From
$ 2550
/ PEOPLE
Arusha / Mto Wa Mbu Village / Lake Natron / Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Crater / Tarangire National Park
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Bathing in the Engare Sero waterfalls with the Maasai people
Meeting with artists from Mto Wa Mbu
From
$ 2620
/ PEOPLE
Manyara National Park / Ngorongoro Crater / Ndutu / Serengeti National Park / Tarangire
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Walk in Manyara National Park
Visit the village of Mto Wa Mbu
Track the big five and capture the best photo!
From
$ 3450
/ PEOPLE
Arusha / Tarangire / Manyara / Ngrongoro / Ndutu / Serengeti / Natron
FLAGSHIP ACTIVITIES :Observing the great migration
Meeting with locals and village visit.
