Things To Do
in Kigoma
Kigoma is a vibrant town located in western Tanzania on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-largest freshwater lake. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Kigoma is surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountains, and stunning sunsets over the lake. The town serves as a gateway to nearby national parks, including Gombe Stream National Park, where visitors can track chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Kigoma also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional dances, music, and colorful local markets offering an authentic Tanzanian experience.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Nzuri sana" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful beaches of Lake Tanganyika. Enjoy a refreshing swim and relax on the sandy shores.
Explore the bustling Kigoma market to experience local culture and cuisine. Try some fresh fruits and interact with friendly vendors.
Enjoy a serene sunset by the lake with a boat ride. Capture stunning photos and unwind as the sun sets over the horizon.
Take an early morning trip to Gombe Stream National Park. Look for chimpanzees and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the lush greenery of the park. Continue your exploration and hike through scenic trails.
Return to Kigoma in the evening. Dine at a local restaurant and share stories of your wildlife encounters.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque landscapes, including beautiful views of Lake Tanganyika.
- Rich cultural heritage, including diverse ethnic groups and traditions.
- Abundance of natural resources and wildlife, making it a great spot for eco-tourism.
- Favorable climate with warm temperatures year-round.
- Opportunity for fishing and water activities due to proximity to the lake.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure, which can make transportation and logistics challenging.
- Economic challenges and high levels of poverty in some areas.
- Occasional political instability and security concerns.
- Limited educational opportunities and resources.
Best Activities in Kigoma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a hike through the park to see chimpanzees and enjoy the beautiful scenery
Enjoy a variety of water activities including swimming, snorkeling, and boating
Visit the historical town and explore the famous Livingstone's Memorial and the old slave market
Tours
Uncover the best of Kigoma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kigoma
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the historic town where Henry Morton Stanley met David Livingstone, and enjoy views of Lake Tanganyika.
Explore the chimpanzee sanctuary and enjoy stunning views of the mountains and Lake Tanganyika.
Relax on the sandy shores and capture beautiful sunset views over Lake Tanganyika.
Food in Kigoma
Kigoma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Malembe is a popular local dish made with fresh tilapia fish sourced from Lake Tanganyika. The fish is marinated in a rich blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. It is commonly served with ugali, a maize porridge, and accompanied by traditional seasonal vegetables. For an authentic Malembe experience, visit local lakeside restaurants such as the Beachcomber Camp.
Must-Try!
Mboga la Nazi is a flavorful coconut vegetable curry that features a mix of locally-grown vegetables cooked in a creamy coconut sauce with aromatic spices. This dish provides a delicious taste of the region's fresh produce and is best enjoyed at local Swahili eateries like Lina's Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kigoma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Ujiji Food Market is a bustling hub where visitors can explore a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. The market is teeming with street food vendors offering samosas, grilled maize, and kebabs, providing a perfect opportunity to savor authentic Kigoma street food flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kigoma, Tanzania, it's important to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It's polite to inquire about the well-being of the person and their family before engaging in conversation.
Respecting elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Kigoma. It's important to address older individuals with respect and deference, using appropriate titles and language.
When dining in Kigoma, it's common to wash your hands before and after a meal. It's also customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before you begin, and to eat with your right hand.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kigoma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kigoma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kigoma, Tanzania, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A 10% tip is customary if the service was good.
Payment in Kigoma, Tanzania is primarily done in cash. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough local currency for transactions. Some larger hotels and businesses may accept credit cards, but it's best to have cash on hand for most purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kigoma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kigoma, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.
Higher temperatures and increased humidity. Lush greenery and good for bird watching, but some activities may be restricted due to rain.
Kigoma at Night
Hiking in Kigoma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Gombe Stream National Park offers several hiking trails that take visitors through lush forests and along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
A prominent landmark in Kigoma, Kigoma Hill provides hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the town and Lake Tanganyika, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Located a bit further from Kigoma, Mahale Mountains National Park is famous for its hiking trails that lead to beautiful mountain views and the chance to see wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
While primarily a historical site, walking around the old town of Ujiji can also offer a pleasant hike along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, with cultural insights and scenic views.
Various trails along the beaches of Lake Tanganyika provide a relaxed hiking experience with beautiful views of the water and opportunities for bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kigoma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kigoma by plane.
Located in Dar es Salaam, approximately 800 km from Kigoma, this is the major international airport serving Tanzania.
Located in Uganda, around 600 km from Kigoma, this airport serves as a significant hub for international flights in the region.
Located near Arusha, about 1,200 km from Kigoma, this airport is the main gateway for tourists visiting northern Tanzania.
Situated in Burundi, approximately 400 km from Kigoma, it provides regional connections and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Sukuma are the largest ethnic group in Tanzania and have a significant presence in Kigoma.
The Pangwa are one of the indigenous groups in Kigoma, known for their agricultural practices.
The Ngede are another indigenous tribe in the region, with a focus on fishing and farming.
A smaller community in Kigoma, often involved in trade and commerce.
A minority group involved in various businesses and economic activities.
The Soul of Kigoma
Discover the essence of Kigoma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kigoma, played by both men and women at various levels, from local leagues to school competitions.
Netball is widely played in Kigoma, particularly among women and girls, and is often featured in schools and community events.
Running and track events are popular, with occasional local competitions and a focus on developing young talent.
Basketball is growing in popularity, particularly among the youth, with informal games played in neighborhoods and schools.
Volleyball is enjoyed by many communities in Kigoma, with both beach and court variants being played recreationally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kigoma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Tanzanian cuisine is meat-centric, many local establishments in Kigoma, especially cafes and hotels, offer vegetarian and vegan options. Visitors can enjoy dishes like coconut curry, vegetable pilau, and fruit salads, ensuring a delightful culinary experience even for those with plant-based dietary preferences.
Kigoma's culinary scene caters to individuals with gluten intolerances, with several venues offering gluten-free alternatives. Staples like rice, fresh fruits, and vegetables are commonly available, and communicating dietary needs with restaurant staff can lead to accommodating gluten-free meals, enhancing the dining experience for gluten-sensitive visitors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kigoma with these cultural adventures.
