Trains route
Dar es Salaam → Mwanza via Isaka
The classic overnight ride across the heart of Tanzania.
- TRC (central line)
- 12-14 hours
- $15-45
The central line is the old East African railway, and the Dar es Salaam to Mwanza service is its great survivor: an overnight crawl through Morogoro, Dodoma and Tabora's palm savanna, then a branch line up to the Lake Victoria shore at Mwanza. Parts of the route now ride on brand-new SGR track as far as Isaka before transferring to the metre gauge - a strange and charming hybrid of eras. Waking to mist over the lake as the train rolls into Mwanza is worth the slow night, and it saves a hotel bill and a bumpy two-day bus ride.
Service classes
- Sleeper
- 1st class
- Economy
Booking information
Book at the central railway station in Dar es Salaam a few days in advance; sleeper berths go first. Bring your passport for ticketing.
Good to know
Overnight in a sleeper is the most restful option; economy seats recline but lights stay on. Bring warm layers - the lake region gets cool at night - plus water and breakfast supplies. At Isaka there is a gauge change; stay near your seat as luggage is moved between trains.
Times and fares are curated guidelines, not a live timetable.
Always confirm before you travel.
Continue the journey