.png)
Differences between Dala Dala's, Boda Boda's, Bajaji's, busses, taxis and trains. Find out when to use which means of transport in Tanzania, know the pricing and learn some Swahili
There are quite a few possibilities on how one can get around in Tanzania so let's dive more into them:
Dala Dala
Dala Dala or Costa are mini busses connecting different city districts, areas and regions. There are no time tables for them but they drive frequently or whenever they're full. Chances are that there are way too many people in the busses than supposed to. It's very common to get squeezed in between people, barely being able to move.
Boda Boda
Boda Boda's are probably the most commonly used transportation in the country. They are motorbikes that bring you everywhere. And conveniently enough, I mean everywhere! With motorbikes it's pretty easy to navigate on Tanzania's streets and roads. Especially when it comes to smaller towns or rural areas with pathways usually only accessible by foot.
Those were actually my favourite. They brought us everywhere and are very convenient, especially for navigating through traffic when I needed to get to the airport fast. 😉
Fun fact: If there's more than one person riding the motorbike (apart from the driver) they call it Mishkaki which basically translates to "beef skewers". 😅
Bajaji
Bajaji's are basically the Tuk Tuks of Tanzania. Very common in cities or bigger towns. Can carry up to 4 people or more. 😉
Bus
Those are the best for long hauls. Although they can be very tiring, depending on how long you travel with them. Also, always keep in mind that they do not stop for many bathroom breaks! Once we took a bus from Iringa to Arusha which took about 12-13 hours and only had 1 (yes ONE!) bathroom break! To be honest, I was surprised myself that my bladder didn't have the need to be emptied that much then but it surely takes some getting used to.
The good thing about bus rides is that you don't have to starve. There's plenty of food and snacks available at every bus stop. The stops tend to be very short though so get your stuff through the window. 🙂
Taxi
To be honest, I've never taken a taxi in Tanzania. Firstly because they are totally overpriced compared to the other means of transport, and secondly because I prefer to travel like the locals whenever I can. There are however taxis available in cities like Dar Es Salaam, Arusha and on Zanzibar island.
Train
I did not know that Tanzania has a train until I left after my first travels there! Although there are only a few selected stations on the way to Zambia, it can be very convenient and practical depending where you travel to.
You can find more details about the railway, itinerary and prices on the site of Tazara, the company operating between Tanzania and Zambia.
Order your transport
There is actually the possibility to order any means of transport (except the busses) by Uber or Bolt. For this it's useful if you have a local number so the driver can reach you or vice versa. Also, the drivers usually accept only cash so make sure to chose the right payment mode and have some change on you. Although cards may be accepted if you order a car.
Prices
The big busses and public transport in cities have their fixed prices, there's no negotiation needed. But for anything else, always make sure to negotiate the price as soon as you're in more "civilised" areas as they try to charge Muzungu's (foreigners) more.
I don't believe that Taxis have a taxi meter so always set the price before you take one.
If you already know the prices for your ride it's best if you have the exact amount in change. In general, I recommend to have smaller change with you to make it easier for you. Also, never pay for your luggage if you take it with you! We did get scammed about that once but you can read more about this story on the post "Haggling Prices in Tanzania".
Dala's normally have their fixed prices. On Zanzibar the prices are even written either on the bus or on a sheet hanging somewhere inside. BUT! Always re-confirm with the collectors! If someone asks you to pay in advance, telling you that he's the owner of that Dala or takes care of payments, don't pay! Payments are made on the road by the collectors.
If you're travelling with local friends, let them do the talking. If you speak Swahili it's even better, they won't be able to cheat you this way. 😉
Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or want some more information.
Sabbu ❤️
Comments