West Tanzania Road Trip Itinerary
The West Tanzania Road Trip is an amazing journey through the heart of the African continent. Starting in Dodoma, the capital of Tanzania, the route will take you through Manyoni, Kigoma, Sumbawanga, and Mbeya, before returning to Dodoma. The total distance is around 2521km and it is recommended to complete the trip in 14 days. The best time of year to drive is in the dry season, which usually runs from June to October.
Throughout the trip you will experience the breathtaking beauty of the African landscape, with its stunning mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills. You can also take time to visit some of the local attractions, such as the Ujiji Historical Monument in Kigoma and the Mbeya Nature Reserve.
It is important to note that the roads in this part of the world can be in poor condition, so it is important to drive safely and carefully. However, the trip is suitable for all drivers, and with a moderate budget, you can enjoy a truly unforgettable experience.
14
number of days
2,527 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Dodoma
Distance 2,527 km
Driving time 45.9 h
Pace: modest
656.9 kWh
Airports
DOD
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Dodoma is the political capital of Tanzania, located in the heart of the country. It serves as a great starting point for the West Tanzania Road Trip. It is a gateway to the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. From Dodoma, travelers can explore the nearby national parks and game reserves, such as the Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The city of Dodoma is a great place to explore, with its rich history and culture, and numerous attractions. Visitors can explore the old town, with its winding streets and colonial buildings, or head to the main market, where you can find all kinds of local products. There is also an outdoor market and plenty of restaurants and bars to explore.
For travelers coming from abroad, the closest international airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam. Car rentals are available at the airport, so visitors can make the most of their road trip.
From Dodoma, visitors can take the road to the Serengeti National Park, one of the most famous national parks in the world. Here, visitors can enjoy the incredible wildlife and landscapes, as well as the unique Maasai culture. Other nearby attractions include the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park and several game reserves.
Dodoma is a great starting point for the West Tanzania Road Trip, with its wealth of attractions and activities. From the city, visitors can explore the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage, and take in the incredible wildlife and landscapes.
1
Dodoma
- Manyoni
Distance 125 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
37.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Dodoma to Manyoni? This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and you will be able to enjoy the 125km drive in less than two hours.
In Dodoma, you can visit the National Museum, the Parliament Building, and the Old German Boma. In Manyoni, you can explore the local market, the traditional mud mosques, and the nearby hot springs.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, pack your bags and get ready for a thrilling road trip from Dodoma to Manyoni!
Manyoni - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - Worldwide Elevation Map Finder
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2
Manyoni
- Tabora
Distance 503 km
Driving time 9.0 h
Pace: modest
130.8 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Manyoni to Tabora, Tanzania! This 502km journey will take you less than 11 hours of driving. You will pass through some of the most beautiful and intriguing places in Tanzania.
Start your journey in Manyoni and visit the Kizumbi Hill, the highest peak in the district. The hill is renowned for its breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Continue your drive and make a stop at the Kondoa Irangi Rock-Art Sites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore the ancient rock paintings and learn about the culture and history of the area.
Your next stop is the small town of Chemba, where you can visit the Chemba Mosque, a beautiful and ancient building.
Continue your drive and visit the Kondoa Town, where you can explore the local markets and get a taste of the local culture.
Your final stop is Tabora, where you can visit the Tabora Museum and learn about the history of the region.
This is just one of the stages of an exciting road trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Tabora - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Tabora
- Kigoma
Distance 423 km
Driving time 7.2 h
Pace: modest
110.1 kWh
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Embark on an amazing adventure with a road trip from Tabora to Kigoma! This 424 km journey will take you less than 12 hours, so you can make the most of your time. Start your journey with a visit to the Gombe National Park, home to the famous chimpanzees of Jane Goodall. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the park and take in the breathtaking views of the lake. After your visit, continue your journey to Kigoma, where you can explore the fascinating culture of this vibrant city. Along the way, take time to appreciate the beauty of the landscape, from the rolling hills to the lush forests. Finally, reach your destination and enjoy the unique experiences it has to offer. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Now, get ready to hit the road and have an unforgettable experience!
Kigoma - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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4
Kigoma
- Katavi N.P.
Distance 334 km
Driving time 6.8 h
Pace: modest
86.9 kWh
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Take a thrilling road trip from Kigoma to Katavi National Park and discover the beauty of the Tanganyika Lake. This 334 km route will take you less than 10 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the stunning landscapes.
Start your journey in Kigoma by visiting the Ujiji Museum, a great destination to explore the region's history. Then, drive along the shores of the Tanganyika Lake, where you can admire the breathtaking views of the water and the nearby mountains.
As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for the amazing wildlife that lives in the area. You might spot some hippos, crocodiles, and even elephants!
Finally, arrive in Katavi National Park and explore its vast grasslands and woodlands. Take a safari and spot the park's diverse wildlife, including lions, zebras, and buffalos.
Make sure you take your time while driving and take in the picturesque landscapes. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Katavi N.P. - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - Nondi Adventures Tanzania
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5
Katavi N.P.
- Sumbawanga
Distance 212 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
55.2 kWh
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Are you ready for a fascinating road trip from Katavi National Park to Sumbawanga? This 212 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, and you will experience some of the most beautiful places in Tanzania.
The first stop of your road trip is Katavi National Park, a huge wildlife sanctuary located in the western part of Tanzania. Here you can admire the unique landscapes and observe the incredible variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for elephants, hippos, lions, leopards, and many more animals.
Your next stop is the charming village of Mpanda. Here you can learn about the local culture and explore the markets. You can also take a boat ride on the Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world.
Your last destination is Sumbawanga, the capital of Rukwa Region. Here you can visit the Museum of Rukwa and learn about the region's history and culture. You can also explore the bustling markets and sample some of the local cuisine.
This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Sumbawanga - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - YouTube
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6
Sumbawanga
- Tunduma
Distance 232 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: modest
60.4 kWh
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Welcome to the start of an amazing road trip from Sumbawanga to Tunduma! This 226 km journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Tanzania. You will be able to explore the culture, wildlife, and history of the region in fewer than 5 hours.
Your first stop should be the Mwamgongo Forest Reserve, where you can observe a variety of wildlife, such as elephants, buffaloes, and hippos. You can also take a guided tour of the reserve and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Next, you will pass through the town of Mpanda, where you can visit the Mpanda Museum and learn about the history of the region. There is also a local market where you can buy souvenirs and traditional crafts.
You will then continue your journey to the village of Uvinza, where you can explore the local culture and take part in traditional ceremonies. You can also visit the nearby Uvinza Wildlife Reserve and observe the diverse wildlife of the region.
Finally, you will reach your destination, the town of Tunduma. Here, you can visit the Tunduma National Park, which is home to a variety of animals, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Tunduma - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - IPPMEDIA
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7
Tunduma
- Mbeya
Distance 101 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: modest
26.2 kWh
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Are you up for an exciting road trip starting in Tunduma, Tanzania and ending in Mbeya? This route is 101 km long and takes less than 3 hours to complete, so you can enjoy a full day of exploring the best attractions of these two cities.
Beginning in Tunduma, you can visit the Tunduma Market, a vibrant and bustling area full of local vendors and merchants selling a variety of goods. If you're looking for something more relaxing, take a stroll along the shores of the nearby Lake Rukwa, where you can take in the stunning views of the lake and its wildlife.
The next stop on your journey is Mbeya. Here, you can explore the beautiful Mbeya National Park, where you can find a variety of wildlife and birdlife. The park also offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. You can also visit the Mbeya Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and artworks from the region.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Mbeya - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikipedia
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8
Mbeya
- Iringa
Distance 334 km
Driving time 6.4 h
Pace: modest
86.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Mbeya to Iringa? The 335 km journey will take you less than 7 hours, so prepare to be amazed by the picturesque landscapes of Tanzania! Along the way, you will get to visit some of the most interesting places, such as the Mbeya National Park, the Ruaha National Park, the Njombe Town, and the Iringa Town.
The Mbeya National Park is a great spot for game viewing, bird watching and hiking. You can also explore the nearby villages and learn more about the culture and traditions of the locals. The Ruaha National Park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife.
The Njombe Town is the perfect destination to learn more about the history and culture of Tanzania. You can visit the local markets and try some of the delicious local cuisine. Finally, the Iringa Town is a great place to explore the vibrant nightlife and the local culture.
If you want to get the most out of your trip, make sure to check out the “Itinerary” section for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Mbeya to Iringa!
Iringa - Tanzania - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikipedia
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9
Iringa
- Dodoma
Distance 261 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: fast
78.3 kWh
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If you are looking for an amazing road trip, look no further than the Iringa to Dodoma route in Tanzania! This 261 km journey takes less than 5 hours to complete, and is one of the stages of a larger tour.
The journey begins in Iringa, a city known for its bustling markets and vibrant culture. Make sure to visit the Mtera Dam, and the nearby Ruaha National Park to enjoy the wildlife and stunning landscapes.
The next stop is the town of Chamwino, home to the ruins of the ancient city of Usagara. Here, you can explore the ruins and learn about the ancient culture and history of the area.
Your next stop is the city of Dodoma, the official capital of Tanzania. Here, you can visit the National Museum, and the nearby Mabinti Centre for Culture and Arts, to learn about the history and culture of the country.
Along the way, you can also stop at the villages of Bahi and Chemba, which are home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Dodoma
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Dodoma is the final destination of the amazing West Tanzania Road Trip. Located in the heart of Tanzania, it is the country's de facto capital city and the administrative center of the Dodoma Region. The city is an important hub for the economy and culture of Tanzania.
The city is filled with interesting places to explore. The National Museum of Tanzania is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the country, while the Great Mosque of Dodoma is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Other attractions include the Dodoma Town Market, the Cultural Centre and the magnificent Mpwapwa Mountain.
For those traveling by car, Dodoma is easily accessible by road. It is located at the intersection of the two main highways of Tanzania, so it is easy to find.
When traveling by air, the closest international airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (IATA: DAR) located in Dar es Salaam, about 400 km away from Dodoma. From there, a car can be rented to complete the West Tanzania Road Trip.
Dodoma is an interesting and vibrant city and the perfect ending point for an amazing road trip. Its cultural attractions, beautiful architecture and vibrant markets make it a great place to explore and discover.
West Tanzania Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Dodoma
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End:
Dodoma
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Distance:
2,527 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Dodoma Airport (DOD)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, July, August, September, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey with the West Tanzania Road Trip, a venture deep into the heart of Africa's stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Starting from the bustling hub of Dodoma, Tanzania's official political capital since 1996, this expedition spans approximately 2521 kilometers and is optimally enjoyed over a 14-day itinerary.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Dodoma: Begin your adventure in Dodoma, a city blending modernity with tradition. Visit the impressive Parliament building, explore local markets, or tour one of the area's renowned vineyards.
- Manyoni: Journey through Manyoni to witness the quintessential Tanzanian plains and perhaps catch sight of a diverse array of birdlife.
- Kigoma: Step into the annals of history at Kigoma, near the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world's longest freshwater lake. Visit the Ujiji Historical Monument, where explorers H.M. Stanley famously found Dr. David Livingstone.
- Sumbawanga: Navigate the dramatic terrains around Sumbawanga, a place of enchantment and folklore, and drive past the breathtaking rift valleys that define the region.
- Mbeya: Experience the natural splendor of the Southern Highlands in Mbeya, with its tea plantations and the Mbeya Range. The Mbeya Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for those seeking serenity and the thrill of spotting diverse wildlife.
Best Time to Go:
The dry season, spanning from June to October, presents the most pleasant climate for Road Tripping. Wildlife viewing is at its peak, and the Roads are generally more navigable, offering a seamless travel experience.
Potential Risks:
- Some parts of the journey may involve traversing rough terrain, so a robust vehicle and cautious driving are advised.
- Be mindful of the possibility of encountering wildlife on the Roads, especially in natural reserves, and stay informed about local weather forecasts to avoid seasonal floods or storms.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route is accessible to drivers of varying experience levels, with the primary caution being preparedness for remote travel.
- A moderate budget will cover the necessities, ensuring an affordable exploration that doesn't skimp on the profound experiences Tanzania has to offer.
- Thoroughly planning for logistical needs such as fuel, food, and accommodations is essential, especially in less populated areas where amenities are sparse.
A good choice for:
The West Tanzania Road Trip promises a distinctive blend of adventure and discovery, ideal for those eager to delve into Tanzania's natural splendor, wildlife havens, and the echoes of historical encounters that resonate through the western regions. This journey is not just a Road Trip, but a passage through time and nature, offering an unforgettable exploration of the untamed and historically rich landscapes of Tanzania.
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