Exploring Mbeya Tourism: Top Places to Visit and Experiences You Can't-Miss

The African city of Mbeya is situated in southwest Tanzania. In 2005, there were 280,000 people living in Mbeya's urban area. Mbeya is the capital of the nearby rural Mbeya area, which has a population of about 2 million people. Between the Mbeya and Poroto mountain ranges, Mbeya is situated at the foot of the towering Loleza Peak.

Lake Ngozi is a massive crater lake on the outskirts of the town that is encircled by a thick forest that is home to a variety of birds. Southeast of the city is Kitulo Plateau National Park, which is renowned for its vibrant wildflowers. Matema Beach, a vacation town on the beaches of the enormous, fish-filled Lake Nyasa, is located farther south. 

Mbeya tourism offers an enchanting blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique attractions.

Top Places To Visit In Mbeya

A trip to the Mbeya wouldn’t be complete without visiting the top places. Make a plan in advance to ensure you do not miss these best things to do in Mbeya. 

Lake Ngozi & The Local Myths of the Waters

Situated 38 kilometers from Mbeya city in Tanzania's Mbeya area, Lake Ngonzi is a stunning crater lake and one of the top things to do in Mbeya. 

Lake Ngozi is the second largest crater lake in Africa, measuring over 2.5 km in length, 1.6 km in width, and approximately 75 m deep. This is similar to the Ngorongoro Crater, which was formed by explosive volcanic activity. 

A caldera is the collapsed remnants of a volcano that has fallen in on itself, and this area is part of the Poroto Ridge, which is a portion of the broader caldera rim's highest point (2620m). According to legend, Ngozi was formed 12,000 years ago during a Plinian eruption, which is characterized by intense, persistent gas explosions and the ejection of a significant volume of pumice.

Lake Ngozi is the second largest crater lake in Africa

Mbeya Peak - Southern Highlands

The 2820-meter-high Mbeya Peak, one of the top places to visit Mbeya, is located northwest and is one of the most popular places to visit in Mbeya. Getting a local guide through your hotel or a Mbeya tourist agency is the ideal way to experience this fun day climb to the highest point in the Mbeya Range.

A number of paths are feasible. One takes the Tunduma road from Mbalizi junction, which is 12 km west of town. To get to St. Mary's Seminary, take a dalla-dalla to Mbalizi, get off at the sign for Utengule Coffee Lodge, turn right, and travel 1 km on the dirt road. 

To get to the summit, turn right here and continue on the road past the seminary to Lunji Farm. You can park your car at Lunji Farm and walk the rest of the way. Only climb with a guide, which can be arranged at Mbeya travel offices or through the majority of hotels, and allow five hours for the return trip.

Daraja la Mungu - God's Bridge

This natural bridge, located 22km west of Tukuyu and south of Ngozi Peak, was created by water pouring through cooling lava that erupted from the adjacent Rungwe volcano approximately 1800 million years ago. A tiny waterfall is crossed by the bridge.

Daraja la Mungu is located 22km west of Tukuyu and south of Ngozi Peak

Mbozi Meteorite - Southern Highlands

One of the biggest meteorites in the world, the Mbozi meteorite, is located around 65 kilometers southwest of Mbeya. It is approximately 3 meters long and 1 meter tall, with a weight of 25 metric tons. Because there are no remnants of the crater it must have left behind when it fell, nor are there any local tales about its origins, scientists believe it struck the earth many thousands of years ago.

You will need your own vehicle to get to the location. To get to Tunduma, take the main route from Mbeya. There is a designated turn-off to the left around 50km from Mbeya. It is 13km along a gravel road from here (no public transport). You will require a 4WD during the rainy season. With the possible exception of a tiny stream about 2km before the meteorite, a 2WD may easily navigate the remaining terrain.

Matema Beach

Matema Beach, a brown-sanded lakeshore, is situated in the Tanzanian town (sometimes known as a district) of Kyela on the northern edge of Lake Nyasa. "Brown sanded" because the sand of Matema Beach is brown and noticeably heavier in weight than the majority of the nation's sandy beaches, which are white in color. Due in large part to its distant setting, it is also among the country's cleanest and most serene beaches.

Another stunning aspect of the area is the Rift Valley, which contains Lake Nyasa, Kyela, and Matema Beach. If you are determined enough to travel into the Kyela region, you will eventually notice a steady but gentle incline where you could even be able to see the lake. The town of Kyela is located less than 500 meters above sea level, which is extremely low when you take into account the elevations of the surrounding places. As a result, temperatures in Matema and Kyela are marginally higher than in other neighboring towns.

Matema Beach is situated in the Tanzanian town of Kyela

How To Get To Mbeya

Traveling to Mbeya is relatively easy, with several options available for visitors coming from different regions of Tanzania. Here is a brief guide explaining how to travel to Mbeya from several locations:

From Dar es Salaam to Mbeya

One of the most well-traveled routes is the one from Dar es Salaam to Mbeya. You can choose between a flight, bus, or train. Flights are available and are the quickest option, while buses provide a more affordable alternative, offering a chance to enjoy scenic views along the way. For a unique experience, consider taking the train from Dar es Salaam to Mbeya, which allows you to see the beautiful landscapes of Tanzania at a leisurely pace.

Traveling to Mbeya is relatively easy

From Iringa to Mbeya

The trip from Iringa to Mbeya is manageable by bus or private vehicle because it is only about 300 kilometers long. You may take in the breathtaking highland scenery while you travel to Mbeya, which usually takes four to five hours.

From Dodoma to Mbeya

For those coming from Dodoma to Mbeya, the distance is approximately 500 kilometers. Buses operate regularly on this route, and the journey usually takes around 8 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for a more flexible travel experience, allowing you to stop and explore attractions along the way.

From Mwanza to Mbeya

Traveling from Mwanza to Mbeya involves a longer journey of about 600 kilometers. Buses are available, but the trip can take up to 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of travel. The trip is a picturesque excursion with breathtaking views of Lake Victoria and the surrounding area.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Mbeya?

Mbeya may be visited throughout the year, depending on the tourism activities that one choose to engage in. Most people go on tours during the dry season, which lasts from June to October. The dry season is ideal for trekking Mount Rungwe and towards the rim of Ngozi Crater Lake. The routes are less slippery and easier to reach during the dry season, the foliage is less dense, and the views of various scenery are breathtaking. The dry season is also an excellent time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the many flower species present in the Garden of God, which are well-known by the locals.

Conclusion

As you set out to explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Mbeya, you'll quickly realize that Mbeya tourism offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences.

To ensure a smooth entry into this beautiful region, consider applying for a Tanzania eVisa through our website. The process is straightforward and can be completed from the comfort of your home. With just a few clicks, you can fill out the application form, make your payment, and receive your visa directly in your email. This convenient option saves you time and eliminates the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.