About Place
- "A hidden gem on Lake Tanganyika"
- "Gateway to Gombe Stream National Park, home of the chimpanzees"
- "A tranquil town with a rich cultural history"
Reasons to Visit
- Proximity to Gombe Stream National Park : Kigoma is the primary gateway to Gombe Stream National Park, one of the world's most famous wildlife research sites, particularly for the study of chimpanzees. Founded by Jane Goodall in 1960, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers and those interested in primatology. The experience of tracking chimpanzees in their natural habitat is both thrilling and educational, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
- Scenic Beauty of Lake Tanganyika : Kigoma is located on the northeastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, the second-deepest and one of the oldest freshwater lakes in the world. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The sunsets over the lake are nothing short of spectacular, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and nature photography.
- Cultural and Historical Significance : Kigoma has a rich cultural history, with influences from Arab, German, and British colonial periods. The town played a significant role in the trade routes across East Africa and has several historical sites, including the old German railway station. Kigoma also offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local culture, from traditional fishing practices to visiting local markets.
Visa
- For U.S., Canadian, EU, and Australian citizens : A visa is required to enter Tanzania, including Kigoma. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at major airports or through the Tanzanian embassy/consulate before departure. The visa is typically valid for 90 days.
- For citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries : No visa is required.
- For other nationalities : It is advisable to check with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country for specific visa requirements.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from destination :
- Round-trip flight for two from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma : Approximately $500 per person, totaling $1,000.
2. Hotel cost :
- Average cost per night : $100
- Total for 3 nights : $300
3. Food cost :
- Average meal cost per person : $10 for lunch, $20 for dinner
- Total for 2 people over 4 days : $240
4. Activity cost :
- Gombe Stream National Park entry and guide fees : $150 per person, totaling $300
- Boat trip to Gombe : $100
- Optional Mahale Mountains trip : $250 per person, totaling $500
5. Near destination travel cost :
- Rented vehicle and fuel for 4 days : $200
Total Estimated Cost : $2,640 (excluding optional activities)
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kigoma After arriving at Kigoma Airport, check into your hotel and unwind after your journey. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the town to familiarize yourself with the area. Visit the Kigoma Railway Station, a historic site dating back to the German colonial era. For lunch, enjoy local Tanzanian cuisine at Maembe Café. In the evening, head down to the shores of Lake Tanganyika to watch the sunset. Dinner can be enjoyed at Sunset Boulevard Restaurant, where you can sample fresh fish from the lake.
Day 2 : Visit to Gombe Stream National Park Begin your day early with a boat ride from Kigoma to Gombe Stream National Park, famous for its chimpanzee population. Spend the morning trekking through the forest with a guide, tracking and observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Lunch will be a packed meal provided by your guide. In the afternoon, explore more of the park, including a hike to Kakombe Waterfall. Return to Kigoma by boat in the late afternoon. For dinner, dine at Hilltop Hotel Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the lake and the town.
Day 3 : Cultural Tour and Lake Tanganyika Activities Start your day with a visit to Ujiji, a nearby town where the famous meeting between explorers Henry Morton Stanley and Dr. David Livingstone took place. Explore the Livingstone Memorial and learn about the town’s history. Return to Kigoma for lunch at The Old Boma Hotel. In the afternoon, engage in water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking on Lake Tanganyika. You can also take a short boat trip to nearby villages to experience local life. End your day with a seafood dinner at Leopard Bay.
Day 4 : Day Trip to Mahale Mountains National Park (Optional) For those with extra time, consider a day trip to Mahale Mountains National Park, which is further south along Lake Tanganyika. This park is another excellent location for chimpanzee trekking, with even more remote and pristine forests. If this option is selected, pack a lunch and enjoy a full day of wildlife exploration before returning to Kigoma in the evening. Dinner can be at Hotel Coast View, which offers both local and international dishes.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Use reputable transportation services.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Follow local customs and dress modestly.
- Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
- Purchase travel insurance before your trip.
Flights
- FastJet operates direct flights from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, taking approximately 2 hours. The estimated cost is $250 per person, one way.
- Precision Air also offers flights with similar pricing and schedule.
Hotels
- Kigoma Hilltop Hotel : Offers stunning views of Lake Tanganyika.
- Gombe Forest Lodge : Perfect for those visiting Gombe Stream National Park.
- The Old Boma Hotel : A historic hotel with charming architecture.
- Lake Shore Lodge : Located on the lakeside, ideal for water activities.
- Hotel Coast View : Affordable option with modern amenities.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Tanzania : +255 22 2666 904/7
- Kigoma Police :+255 28 280 3337
- Kigoma Hospital (Emergency) : +255 28 280 4013
- Firefighters : 114 (Tanzania Emergency Line)
- Ambulance : 115 (Tanzania Emergency Line)
Country
Closet Airport
- Kigoma Airport (TKQ)
Nearest City
- Dar es Salaam
Heritage Sites
- Livingstone Memorial in Ujiji
Airlines
- FastJet
- Precision Air
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Languages Spoken
- Swahili
- English
Real Story
The most significant historical event associated with Kigoma is the meeting between explorer Henry Morton Stanley and Dr. David Livingstone on November 10, 1871, in the nearby town of Ujiji. Livingstone had been out of contact with the outside world for several years, leading to concerns about his wellbeing. Stanley was sent by the New York Herald to find him, which he eventually did at Ujiji. Upon finding Livingstone, Stanley reportedly greeted him with the now-famous phrase, "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?" This meeting marked a pivotal moment in the history of African exploration and highlighted the broader European interest in the continent during the 19th century. The site of their meeting is commemorated by the Livingstone Memorial, a significant historical landmark in the region.
Cuisine
Kigoma’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its proximity to Lake Tanganyika. Fish, particularly Nile perch and tilapia, are staples of the local diet. One of the most popular dishes is samaki wa kupaka, a grilled fish dish coated in coconut sauce, often served with rice or ugali (a type of maize porridge). Another local favorite is ndizi na nyama, a dish made of bananas cooked with beef in a rich, flavorful stew. Visitors should also try the local fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruits, which are fresh and abundant.
Culture and History
Kigoma is a melting pot of cultures, influenced by various historical eras. The town has been shaped by Arab traders, German colonizers, and later, British administrators. Today, it’s a peaceful town with a blend of Swahili culture, traditional Tanzanian practices, and remnants of its colonial past. The local people are primarily from the Ha and Bembe ethnic groups, known for their rich traditions, music, and dance. Fishing is a major part of the local economy, with traditional dhow boats dotting the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The town is also known for its role in the East African slave trade, with Ujiji, a nearby town, being a key historical site where the famous "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?" meeting took place. This phrase symbolizes the town’s place in the exploration history of Africa.