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How to get from Dodoma to Mbeya?

Traveling from Dodoma, the capital of Tanzania, to Mbeya in the Southern Highlands offers a journey through diverse landscapes of the country. The two cities are located within a distance of around 700 to 750 kilometers and the modes of commuting are through buses, trains, airplanes or by road. Each travel option varies in terms of cost, comfort, and travel time. This is a step-by-step road map to the most efficient path.

1. By Bus – The Most Common and Affordable Option

Buses are the most widely used means of travel between Dodoma and Mbeya. Several reputable bus companies operate on this route, including Abood Bus, Happy Nation, and Shabiby Line.

  • Travel Time: 10 to 12 hours
  • Cost: Around 35,000 to 50,000 TZS (depending on the class and company)
  • Departure Points: Dodoma Bus Terminal
  • Arrival: Mbeya Main Bus Station

The majority of the buses leave early in the morning. The road passes through places like Iringa, which has spectacular mountains, valleys and rural highlands. Today’s modern buses offer comfortable seats, air conditioning, and onboard services

Note: Do not forget to book the ticket ahead and select VIP/Semi-Luxury class to have a comfortable journey.

2. By Train – A Scenic but Slower Journey (TAZARA Railway)

For a more scenic and adventurous option, travelers can first take a bus or car from Dodoma to Morogoro (about 4–5 hours) and then board the TAZARA Railway from Morogoro to Mbeya. This route offers a memorable ride through rural Tanzania and lush highlands. The most practical route is to connect through Morogoro rather than Dar es Salaam, which would add a long detour.

  • Travel Time: 20 to 30 hours (including connections)
     
  • Cost: 40,000 to 70,000 TZS, depending on class (Second Class Sleeper recommended)

The train provides spectacular scenery of the Tanzanian countryside, wildlife and highlands. It suits leisure travelers who are adventurous and like local experiences.

Note: TAZARA schedule is to be checked in advance because there are not so many departures (typically, two times a week).

3. By Flight – Fastest but Not Always Direct

There are no direct flights between Dodoma and Mbeya. Most travelers fly with Air Tanzania via Dar es Salaam, which takes around 4–6 hours including the layover. Average time of travel, with layover, is 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route and flight waits.

Flights on Dodoma Airport (DOD) arrive first in Dar es Salaam or Mwanza and then passengers board another plane to Mbeya Songwe Airport (MBI). Flying is also quite costly as compared to buses or trains, but it is more comfortable and helps save a whole day of commuting; hence the method is best when the business traveler has a tight schedule or when the person is in a rush.

Songwe Airport, located about 25 km from Mbeya City, is usually a 30–40-minute drive by taxi or shuttle. Since flights operate only a few times a week, it’s best to book your ticket in advance.

4. By Private Car or Taxi – Flexible and Scenic

A private car or taxi offers flexibility, allowing travelers to stop at towns and scenic viewpoints along the way. The road is around 720 kilometers long and can take between 9 and 11 hours depending on the road conditions and the number of stops on the way. The route follows the A104 Highway through Iringa and the Southern Highlands, offering spectacular views of rolling hills, valleys, and rural villages.

By hiring a personal vehicle or long-distance taxi, the visitors can make a number of stops at beautiful destinations, local restaurants, or even in the towns like Iringa, which makes the journey worthwhile and useful. It is recommendable to get a 4x4 car particularly during the rainy season where some parts of the road can be difficult. Make sure to carry your valid driving license, vehicle insurance, and identification documents, as there are several police checkpoints along the way.

This may cost more than bus transport, but this alternative is more intimate, comfortable, and it offers one to discover the undiscovered regions in Tanzania. In the case of a group or families, a private car is a gratifying experience of visiting Mbeya, in addition to the spectacular scenery of the trip itself.

Conclusion

Reaching Mbeya from Dodoma is an adventure and you get the opportunity to explore some of the most scenic places in Tanzania. If you want to take the cheaper route of taking the bus, the picturesque route of taking the train, the speed of the flight, or the freedom of the road trip, there is a travel option that suits your travel style. As soon as you get there, you will feel the cool air, mountainous landscape, and the beauty of Southern Highlands greeted by Mbeya.

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