Traveling between Tanzania and Zambia by TAZARA train offers an adventure through diverse landscapes and cultural experiences unlike any other mode of transport. While flights and buses provide faster alternatives, TAZARA trains promise a unique journey that blends the scenic beauty of East Africa with the rich cultures of Tanzania and Zambia.
Why Travel by TAZARA Train?
Choosing the TAZARA train is ideal if you’re after an immersive travel experience. Beyond simply moving between two destinations, the journey lets you interact with fellow travelers, appreciate remote landscapes, and enjoy the comfortable amenities on board. It’s a memorable choice for tourists, traders, and locals visiting family, as it allows for rest and relaxation over the course of the two-day journey.
Booking Your TAZARA Train Tickets
Booking Tips
Tickets for TAZARA trains must be booked well in advance due to the service’s popularity. Booking opens one month prior, and it’s advisable to secure your spot at least a week in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.
How to Book
Since online booking is not available, tickets must be purchased at TAZARA offices, main train stations, or by contacting station representatives:
- Dar es Salaam Station: Salma at +255 713 354 648, June at +255 715 469 239
- New Kapiri Mposhi Station: Mr. Sinkala at +260 966 529 753
- Lusaka Booking Office: Ms. Splendour Mweemba at +260 979 484 980
Understanding the TAZARA Train Options
TAZARA operates two main train types: the Kilimanjaro Ordinary Train (run by Tanzania) and the Mukuba Express Train (operated by Zambia). Both use the 1,860 km Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) line, a symbol of regional collaboration and an unforgettable travel route.
- Kilimanjaro Ordinary Train – Known for its slightly older coaches, it provides all essential facilities and departs from Dar es Salaam every Tuesday, reaching New Kapiri Mposhi by Thursday.
- Mukuba Express Train – A newer train with upgraded coaches delivered in 2016. It departs every Friday from Dar es Salaam and arrives on Monday.
On-Board Facilities and Amenities
Class Options:
- First Class: Compartments with four beds for added comfort.
- Second Class: Compartments with six beds, perfect for groups or families.
- Super Seater: Individual seating for day travelers.
- Third Class Seats: General seating; tends to get crowded, making it less ideal for longer journeys.
Facilities:
- Restaurant and Lounge Car: Serving local and international cuisine, including the popular Zambian fish dishes.
- Electricity and Charging: Every car has power sockets for device charging.
- Clean Toilets and Showers: Available in each compartment.
- Corridors and Viewing Windows: Large windows offer excellent views of the passing landscapes.
- Comfort Features: Includes clean bedding, a cooling fan, and wide corridors.
TAZARA Train Schedule
- Kilimanjaro Train: Departs Dar es Salaam on Tuesdays, arriving in New Kapiri Mposhi on Thursdays; returns from New Kapiri Mposhi on Fridays, reaching Dar es Salaam on Mondays.
- Mukuba Express Train: Departs Dar es Salaam on Fridays, arriving on Mondays; leaves New Kapiri Mposhi on Tuesdays, arriving on Thursdays.
Delays are possible and sometimes prolonged, especially due to train breakdowns or prioritization of the Rovos Rail luxury train. For example, you may wait several hours at Mbeya station to allow the Rovos Rail to pass.
Fares and Currency Information
Currency Exchange Rates
- 1 USD = 2100 Tanzanian Shillings (Tshs)
- 1 USD = 8.6 Zambian Kwacha (ZMK)
Fare Chart
Fares vary based on class and seat type. Check the latest rates and ensure you carry enough currency or exchange money before boarding, as border rates may not be favorable.
Border Crossings and Travel Documents
Two border points serve the TAZARA route: Nakonde (Zambia) and Tunduma (Tanzania). Essential documents include a valid passport, a yellow fever vaccination card, and a visa (if required for your nationality). Border officials board the train at each point, so travelers are advised to stay on board to avoid missing the immigration process.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Security: Keep your ticket and belongings secure; armed officers from both countries patrol the trains.
- Arrive Early: To avoid missing your train, reach the station well ahead of the departure time.
- Snacks and Water: Bring your own snacks, though refreshments are available on board.
- Comfort and Class: First or second-class compartments offer the most comfort for the extended journey.
Connecting Transport and Arrival Tips
Upon arrival at New Kapiri Mposhi, travelers can connect to Lusaka by bus, with fares to the intercity station around 70 Kwacha. At both main stations, taxis and public buses are available to transfer you between the train station and the city center.
Recommendations and Final Thoughts
Traveling on the TAZARA train is an opportunity to see the landscapes and cultures of Tanzania and Zambia up close. Keep your camera ready for beautiful sunsets, wide-open plains, and authentic moments with fellow passengers. It’s a journey worth taking for anyone seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and a slower pace of travel that offers ample time to appreciate the journey and destination.
For current updates, including potential service interruptions, check TAZARA’s official communication channels before planning your trip. And for those who have already experienced the journey, feel free to share your insights and experiences!
