Things To Do
in Songea
Songea sits in the southern highlands of Tanzania near Lake Nyasa, where green hills meet a bustling town center. The city is a gateway to nearby natural beauty and cultural experiences of the Ruvuma region. In Songea, you’ll find a friendly, markets-filled atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
Visitors come to experience lake-side life, traditional cuisine, and adventurous day trips to nearby hills and reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Songea and check into your accommodation to refresh after your journey. Take some time to acclimate and enjoy the local scenery. Explore nearby markets for an introduction to local crafts and produce.
Head to the nearby Songea Cultural Museum to learn about the history and traditions of the region. Engage with local artisans and perhaps try your hand at traditional crafts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Tanzanian specialties.
As the sun sets, take a stroll through Songea's streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit a local café to sip on some Tanzanian coffee or chai. Wind down your first day with a traditional dinner featuring local ingredients.
Set out early for a guided tour of the ancient ruins in the area, which offer a glimpse into the rich history of Tanzania. Engage with your guide to understand the significance of each site as you walk among the remains of ancient structures. Capture photographs of the stunning landscapes surrounding the ruins.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the serene landscapes. Post-lunch, visit the nearby village to meet locals and hear stories about their cultural practices. Interact with villagers and learn about traditional agriculture techniques.
Return to Songea and spend some time in one of the town's lively night markets. Enjoy street food and experience the buzz of local entertainment. End the day with a calming night walk back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/guesthouse room | $15-40 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short distance) | $1-6 |
| 🧭Local SIM card with data | $1-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Rich lake-and-hills scenery and cultural experiences
- Limited nightlife and fewer luxury services compared to bigger cities
- Infrastructure can be slower and less predictable
- "Habari" - Hello/How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Jina lako nani?" - What is your name?
- "Ninaweza kupata maji?" - Can I have water?
- "Bei gani?" - How much is this?
- "Ndiyo" - Yes
- "Hapana" - No
Places to Visit in Songea
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light along the lake with fishermen, boats, and silhouettes.
Panoramic views over the roofs and surrounding hills—great for wide shots.
Water reflections and local life along the river bend are classic composition subjects.
Food in Songea
Songea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge served with fried or stewed fish, a staple by the lake.
Must-Try!
Fragrant spiced rice cooked with cumin and cardamom, often served with meat or vegetables.
Grilled meat (usually beef or goat) served with sides like greens and kachumbari.
A comforting mix of maize and beans, a common and affordable dish.
Pigeon peas cooked in coconut milk, a flavorful Southern Tanzanian dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fish, ugali, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Street vendors near Lake Nyasa selling grilled fish, roasted maize, and fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a warm greeting when entering shops or meeting people; a handshake is common.
Cover shoulders and knees in markets and religious sites; avoid public displays of affection in rural areas.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially children.
Follow cues from elders and avoid discussing sensitive topics in first meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Songea
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated; 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash in Tanzanian shillings is widely used; mobile money (M-Pesa/Tigo Pesa) is increasingly accepted; cards are rarely accepted in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler mornings and pleasant days; ideal for trekking and outdoor photography; evenings can be chilly.
Lush landscapes and occasional showers; good for vibrant greenery but can disrupt plans.
Heavy showers and humidity; trails can be muddy; excellent for lush scenery and fewer crowds.
Warm to hot days; lightweight clothing recommended; ensure sun protection and hydration.
Songea at Night
Hiking in Songea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Various forest trails and viewpoints in the Udzungwa range, offering waterfall hikes and wildlife.
Gentle to moderate hikes with rural landscapes and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Songea by plane.
Local airport with domestic flights and connections to major cities like Dar es Salaam; check schedules in advance.
Regional hub with more frequent flights to Dar es Salaam and other regional centers; longer drive from Songea.
Main international gateway in Dar es Salaam; connects to many international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of urban residents and rural farming communities; Swahili is the lingua franca, with local languages spoken in villages.
Communities around Lake Nyasa relying on fishing, farming, and small trades.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and pickup games are common in towns and schools.
Running and field events are common in schools and community events.
Played in schools and local clubs; street courts can be found in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Songea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for mchicha or local greens with ugali or makande; most dishes can be prepared meat-free.
Request vegetable stews, maize-based dishes, and fruit; avoid dairy-heavy curries.
Ugali is gluten-free; pair with fish or vegetables to stay gluten-free.