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How to get from Dar Es Salaam to Lushoto?

Located at Usambara Mountain in northeastern Tanzania, Lushoto is a cool getaway to the hot coastal region of Dar es Salaam. The journey covers around 340–360 kilometers and usually takes 5–6 hours by private car or 7–8 hours by direct bus, depending on traffic and road conditions. Here’s an overview of the most suitable travel options

The cheapest option is often a long-distance bus toward Mombo or Tanga, where you can transfer to a local bus or shared taxi up to Lushoto. Occasionally, some operators run direct services, but these may not be available daily. This route is served by some well established bus operators such as Kilimanjaro Express, Dar express and regional bus operators.

  • Where to Board: The buses leave the main bus station in the city of Dar es Salaam, Magufuli Bus Terminal in the Mbez area.
  • Departure Time: Before morning is the best time, preferably between 6:00 am and 8.00 am so that you get to Lushoto before evening.
  • Time: around 6–7 hours, though it can take longer if traffic is heavy leaving Dar es Salaam or during the mountain climb to Lushoto.
  • Cost: Usually between TZS 50,000–80,000 (USD 20–35), depending on the bus operator, class, and season.
  • Tip :  Book your ticket a day before most especially during weekends or on holidays. Choose a semi luxury or luxury coach with the more padded seats and better ground hugging suspension on the mountain roads.

The journey normally takes the coastal road to Chalinze and then traverses the interior through Segera and Mombo up the winding mountain road to Lushoto.

By Bus to Mombo + Local Transfer to Lushoto

If direct buses are unavailable, an alternative is to use a long distance bus from Dar es Salaam to Mombo, a big junction town at the foot of Usambara Mountains. A local bus, shared taxi or daladala runs to Lushoto, departing from Mombo.

  • Dar es Salaam to Mombo: It takes about 6-8 hours by bus.
  • Momba to Lushoto: 1–2 hours through fantastic mountain views.
  • Price:  It may be slightly more expensive than a direct bus but more flexible with respect to traveling times.

By Private Car or Taxi – Fast and Flexible

The quickest and most convenient is to hire a private car or a transfer organized by your hotel in Dar es Salaam, however, it is much more expensive.

  • Duration: About 5–6 hours, depending on stops and traffic
  • Cost: Usually around USD 45–75 if you hire a standard taxi, though private tour transfers may charge more
  • Advantages:  Complete departure schedule, take breaks to take pictures or eat and ride a comfortable vehicle on the windy mountains.

Travel Tips & Road Conditions

  • There is a main highway between Dar es Salaam and Mombo, which is in average condition, however, after leaving the city, traffic congestion is to be expected.
  • The road from Mombo to Lushoto is steep and winding with sharp bends. If you're prone to motion sickness, it's advisable to take motion sickness pills
  • Carry snacks and water because the food breaks in the route may be simple.
  • Lushoto is significantly colder than Dar es Salaam,so bring a light jacket—it's advisable to pack one even if you arrive in the evening

The morning bus directly to Magufuli Bus Terminal is also the most feasible combination of cost-efficiency, convenience, and comfort by most travelers.If you prefer flexibility and comfort than cost, then a personal car will enable you to have a slow journey and absorb the sights of Tanzanian diverse landscapes.

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