How to get from Tanga to Lushoto?

The journey from the coastal city of Tanga to the cool highlands of Lushoto in Usambara Mountains of Tanzania is a great experience as it will take you along palm-lined beaches to fertile, green valleys. The drive is about 150–170 kilometers and will usually take 2–3 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. These are the key pieces of  information regarding the main travel options

By Bus – The Most Common Way

The common and affordable mode of transport between Tanga and Lushoto is by bus. Most buses depart in the morning, but schedules can vary, and tickets are usually bought directly at the station. There are buses which depart from the Tanga Central Bus Stand. The majority of services run out on the main road to Korogwe and then turn off to ascend into the Usambara Mountains to Lushoto.

• Duration: About 2.5–3 hours, though it may take longer if the bus makes many stops or during bad weather.
• Cost: Typically between TZS 15,000–25,000 (USD 6–10), depending on the bus company and season.
• Tip: It is important to make your reservation as early as is necessary during the weekends or those hours that constitute holidays because the buses have a way of filling up quite easily. It is best to be seated on the side that faces the mountains, because then one has a view along the way up.

By Shared Minibus (Daladala) – Flexible but Slower

In case you want to be flexible or you have missed the morning buses, you can also travel in stages by using daladalas (shared minibuses). You would first travel by daladala or small bus to Korogwe (3-4 hours),  then transfer to another daladala heading to Lushoto (2–3 hours).

• Duration: About 3–5 hours depending on connections and waiting times
• Cost: Slightly higher than a direct bus if traveling in stages, but still affordable.
• Tip: Daladalas leave when full rather than on a fixed schedule, so patience is required.

By Private Car or Taxi – Fastest and Most Comfortable

The most comfortable and flexible way of hiring transport is to hire a private taxi or arrange it by a hotel in Tanga. It is possible to pause on the route and take a picture or a short walk, particularly, when you enter Usambara Mountains.

• Duration: Around 2–2.5 hours, depending on stops and road conditions.
• Cost: Usually $70–120 depending on your negotiation skills and the type of vehicle
• Tip: Make sure the vehicle is in good condition because mountain roads can be steep and twisty in nature so

Road Conditions & Travel Tips

The main highways between Tanga and Korogwe are paved and in decent condition, but the mountain road from Mombo to Lushoto is steep and winding, and can be rough in the rainy season. However, be cautious of occasional potholes that may slow traffic down. Mombo to Lushoto means driving up some mountains over winding roads with very tight corners and If you are prone to motion sickness, it may be advisable to take medication

Final Advice: The morning direct bus is the best option for most travelers in regards to cost, comfort, and time. However you go, expect a picturesque journey as you take to the cool green interior of the Usambara Mountains, leaving behind the coastal plains of Tanzania

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