Tanzania Transportation Guide: Public, Private, and Tourist Options

Transportation in Tanzania

Tanzania offers a range of public and private transport options, including buses, trains, ferries, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and domestic flights. Major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha are transport hubs, with intercity and local connections.

• Public Transport: No metro or tram systems. Daladala minibuses operate in cities (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Arusha). Ferries connect Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (Azam Marine, Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries).
• Transportation Apps: Uber and Bolt are available in Dar es Salaam. Local app Paisha is also used.
• Internal Flights: Main domestic airlines include Precision Air, Air Tanzania, and Coastal Aviation. Key routes: Dar es Salaam–Arusha, Dar es Salaam–Zanzibar, Arusha–Zanzibar.
• Intercity Trains and Buses: Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) operates routes such as Dar es Salaam–Dodoma–Mwanza. Major bus companies: Shabiby Line, Dar Express, ABC Upper Class.
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Taxis are widely available; fares are usually negotiated or metered in cities. Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt) offer cash and mobile payment options.
• Car Rental: International and local agencies operate in major cities and airports. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
• Tourist Recommendations: Airport transfers are available by taxi, shuttle, or ride-hailing apps. Ferries are recommended for Zanzibar travel.
• Accessibility: Public transport is generally not wheelchair accessible. Some private taxis and hotels offer accessible vehicles on request.
• Unique Local Transport: Bajaji (auto-rickshaws) are common in urban areas.
• Safety and Payment: Use official taxis or apps for safety. Payments accepted in cash (Tanzanian shilling) and mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa).