Spend a few days in Kigoma to enjoy the pleasures of swimming on the Lake Tanganyika, discover the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Tanzanian markets and visit two of the most beautiful natural parks in the western part of the country.

History

Home to the "Ha" tribe, one of the three most important tribes in Tanzania in the 1940s, Kigoma has had a tumultuous past. The city was long a centre of slave and ivory trade, until Western abolition campaigns brought it to an end. Since then, aside from fishing and palm oil production, its economy has depended largely on Tanzanian continental trade. Built in the twentieth century, Tanzania's main railway line terminates in Kigoma.

The Story of Dr Livingstone

In the second half of the nineteenth century, British missionary and explorer David Livingstone was declared missing while on an exploration safari in Africa. In 1871, journalist Morton Stanley found him in a small village just a short distance from Kigoma, Ujiji. Dr Livingstone had settled there – a memorial marks the site of his former home. Founded in Ujiji, the Livingstone Memorial Museum tells the story of the East African slave trade through a collection of objects and printed posters. Added to this are paintings by local artists, as well as papier-mâché works depicting Livingstone and Stanley.

Discovering Kigoma

Prepare yourself for a long journey to reach Kigoma. Don't watch the clock – instead, take in the picturesque landscapes of western Tanzania as you travel to the city. Stretching along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Kigoma is the regional capital. It retains a rustic charm with a blend of corrugated-roof houses and old colonial buildings. The scenes of daily life are a treat for travellers seeking escape and authenticity. And when the train from Dodoma or the vintage Papa Liemba boat arrives in town, Kigoma comes alive and the spectacle is captivating.

Visit Kigoma's Traditional Markets

Immerse yourself in a vibrant, colourful world at Kigoma's traditional market. Stroll past stalls of beach items, cheap fruits and vegetables. Haggle over a kitenge (traditional woman's garment) with the spirited vendors as a souvenir of your stay in Tanzania, or choose to take home palm oil soap instead. Don't miss the Katonga fish market either, renowned for its fresh or dried dagaa sardines.

Enjoy Water Activities on Lake Tanganyika

The main tourist attraction in Kigoma is Lake Tanganyika, one of the world's largest freshwater lakes. Here you can fish or go snorkelling to admire the colourful aquatic life (the water is crystal clear). You can also canoe on Lake Tanganyika from Jakobsen Beach.

If you want to relax, head to Bangwe public beach. It's one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Kigoma. The nearby bar offers a variety of tropical cocktails to enhance the moment.

Meet the Chimpanzees

Kigoma is the starting point for numerous nature excursions. Head to Gombe National Park to see chimpanzees and other magnificent creatures such as green monkeys, olive baboons, hippopotamuses, leopards and more. Another possible destination, Mahale Mountains National Park is among the rare places on Earth where chimpanzees coexist with lions.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

Kigoma is located near the equator, and benefits from its altitude as well. The city enjoys a mild tropical climate. The best time to visit Kigoma is the dry season from June to October.

Kigoma can be explored on foot, by bus, taxi or motorcycle taxi.

From Tanzania's capital Dar Es Salaam, located in the far east of the country, the journey to Kigoma can seem endless. The same applies if you're travelling from Dodoma or Arusha – you'll need patience and determination. Those who love train adventures will certainly adapt. However, if your time is limited, fly instead. Kigoma has a small airport in its eastern suburbs. It offers connections to Dar es Salaam and Mwanza.

The Papa Liemba still operates on the Lake Tanganyika and connects Kigoma to the Zambian town of Mpulungu to the south, stopping at various points along the coast.

What to do in Kigoma?

• Shop for souvenirs in the traditional markets
• Take a canoeing excursion on Lake Tanganyika
• Relax on Bangwe beach
• Visit the Livingstone Memorial Museum in Ujiji
• Discover the chimpanzees of Gombe Stream National Park, and more.