
Tabora Travel Guide | Tabora Safari Tours
Tabora is a city in central Tanzania, located approximately 400 km west of the country’s capital, Dar es Salaam. It is the capital of Tabora Region and has a population of around 226,000 people.
Tabora is also an important hub for transportation and commerce, with a bustling market and various cultural attractions, including museums, mosques, and traditional dance performances.
The climate in Tabora is tropical, with distinct rainy and dry seasons, and temperatures often rising above 30°C.

Best Safari Tours from Tabora
A northern Tanzania safari should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. The Serengeti National Park’s Great Migration is one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles in the world, whilst safari on the Ngorongoro Crater floor of the extinct volcano at Ngorongoro is a game viewing environment that has no equal.
Towering above it all is Kilimanjaro, the worlds highest freestanding mountain and arguably Africa’s toughest challenge. Away from the tourist hotspots, quieter parks such as Tarangire National Park offers superb for game viewing yet often overlooked to their more famous neighbours. The Rift Valley Lakes of Eyasi and Natron are the home of Hadzabe tribes and the breeding grounds for the largest flocks of flamingo on earth. For many people, a Northern Tanzanian safari is the very best safari of all.
Tanzania’s northern safari circuit is the most celebrated safari area in Africa. Home to the world-famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, and the lesser known parks of Lake Manyara and Tarangire, the sheer concentration of Africa’s big game in this area is phenomenal.
Most itineraries to this region are designed around the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, with the Serengeti’s Wildebeest Migration and immense predator concentrations as the main attraction, not to mention the Ngorongoro’s big five experience. The area is also home to a variety of different cultures including the Maasai and the Hadzabe, as well as being one of the most scenically striking and diverse parts of the continent.
Tabora Travel Guide
Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Tabora (Tanzania):
1. Urambo Ruins: The Urambo Ruins are located in the Urambo district, approximately 50 kilometers west of Tabora town. The ruins are believed to date back to the 12th century and are renowned for their historical significance.
2. Mkasale Dam: Mkasale Dam is situated in the south-west of Tabora town. The dam attracts tourists who come to witness the serene waterfalls in this area. It is also a popular location for fishing, hiking, and camping.
3. Biharamulo Forest Reserve: Located north of Tabora town, Biharamulo Forest Reserve is one of the most significant natural habitats in the area. It has diverse flora and fauna and offers nature-based activities such as hiking and bird-watching.
4. Kaliua Wildlife Reserve: Kaliua Wildlife Reserve is located to the east of Tabora and covers an area of around 2,270 square kilometers. It has a rich ecosystem with large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras and other wildlife.
5. Tabora Region Museum: The museum is located in Tabora town and contains a collection of artefacts that relate to the history and culture of Tabora. The museum houses significant historical and anthropological artifacts from various periods.
6. The Colonial Railway Station: The railway station was built in 1914 by the Germans and is architecturally significant as it echoes the early colonial designs.
7. The Cotton Ginnery Museum: The museum features an old cotton ginnery that illustrates the cotton industry and how it started in Tabora. The museum gives visitors a glimpse into the economic history of Tabora.
8. Tabora Arts Centre: The arts centre is a haven for arts and crafts enthusiasts. It showcases a diverse collection of art pieces made from traditional materials like wood and clay.
These are some of the main tourist attractions in Tabora.
The best time to visit Tabora would be during the dry season, which is roughly from June to October. During this period, temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as safari and hiking.
However, it’s worth noting that temperatures can still be quite high, with average highs ranging from 28°C to 32°C, so it’s important to come prepared with appropriate clothing and sun protection. If you prefer a slightly cooler climate, consider visiting in the months of July and August, as these tend to be the coolest months of the year.
The best way to get to Tabora is by flying. You can take a flight to Tabora Airport from Dar es Salaam, which is the largest city in Tanzania and has an airport with international connections.
There are also domestic flights from other major cities in Tanzania like Arusha, Mwanza or Dodoma.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive, but keep in mind that the roads in Tanzania are not always well-maintained and can be quite challenging to navigate.
Here are some typical foods that you might encounter in Tabora, Tanzania, along with a brief description of each:
1. Ugali: Ugali is a staple food in Tabora and throughout Tanzania. It’s made from maize or cassava flour and water, and it has a dough-like consistency. It’s often served with stews, vegetables, or meat.
2. Nyama Choma: Nyama Choma is a grilled meat dish that is popular throughout Tanzania. Beef, goat, and chicken are the most commonly grilled meats, and they are often served with chapati, fries, or ugali.
3. Wali Wa Nazi: Wali Wa Nazi is a coconut rice dish that’s popular in Tanzania. Coconut milk is added to the rice, giving it a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It’s often served with curry or stew.
4. Maharage: Maharage is a bean dish that’s popular in Tabora and other parts of Tanzania. The beans are cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices, and they are often served with rice or ugali.
5. Vitumbua: Vitumbua are small, sweet, fried cakes that are a popular snack in Tanzania. They’re made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, and they’re often served with tea or coffee.
6. Chapati: Chapati is a type of flatbread that’s popular in Tabora and throughout Tanzania. It’s made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and it’s typically served with stews, meat dishes, or beans.
7. Pilau: Pilau is a flavorful rice dish that originated from the Swahili coast but is now popular throughout Tanzania. It’s made using spices such as saffron, cumin, and cinnamon, with vegetables and meat added in for a full meal.
Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Tanzania, Tabora can be considered less expensive. However, the cost of a trip to Tabora will depend on several factors such as the season of travel, type of accommodation, transportation, activities, and food. It is always recommended to do research and compare prices to get the best deals. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of a trip can vary depending on individual preferences and spending habits.
There are various areas in Tabora where you can find suitable accommodation for your trip. Some of the options are:
1. City center: This is the heart of Tabora, and it is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the main attractions, restaurants, and shops. You can find a range of hotels and guesthouses in this area.
2. Kizengi: This area is located just outside of the city center, and it offers a peaceful and quiet environment. There are several guesthouses and lodges here that offer comfortable accommodation.
3. Urambo: This town is located about 70 kilometers from Tabora, and it is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. You can find a few lodges and guesthouses here.
4. Nzega: This town is located about 120 kilometers from Tabora, and it is a great place to stay if you want to explore the nearby wildlife reserve. There are a few lodges and campsites here that offer accommodation.
Overall, the best area to stay in Tabora depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip.
Tabora is generally considered a safe destination for tourists in Tanzania. However, as with any place, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Some tips for staying safe in Tabora include:
1. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in secluded areas.
2. Keep your valuables and important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe.
3. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large sums of money in public.
4. Use common sense and trust your instincts if something or someone seems suspicious.
By following these guidelines and being aware of your surroundings, you should have a safe and enjoyable visit to Tabora.
In Tabora, Tanzania, you can move around by using a variety of transportation options. The most common and affordable ones are “daladalas”, which are minivans that operate like buses and run along established routes.
They are usually crowded, but the fare is inexpensive. You can also take a taxi or hire a motorbike taxi, which are more expensive options but can be convenient for short distances or if you are carrying luggage. Walking is also another option if you are comfortable with it.
Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Tabora, Tanzania:
1. Uyui Forest Reserve: This nature reserve is located just 10 km from Tabora town and is home to over 200 species of birds and a variety of plant species.
2. Kaliua Game Reserve: This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. It’s located about 150 km from Tabora town.
3. Mwanzugi Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall located about 45 km from Tabora town. It’s a great spot for hiking and picnicking.
4. Singida Town: Singida town is located about 200 km from Tabora town and has a rich cultural history. You can visit the local market, explore the town’s historic buildings, and meet the friendly locals.
5. Nzega Town: Nzega is a town located about 90 km from Tabora and is known for its stunning landscapes and natural attractions including hot springs and waterfalls.
6. Sitalike Rock paintings: These ancient rock paintings are located about 60 km from Tabora town. The site features a series of paintings that date back over 2,000 years.
