My adventure began near Dar es Salaam’s bustling port, searching for transportation to the Malawi border. Unfortunately, my timing couldn’t have been worse – arriving on a weekend meant all downtown ticket offices were shut tight.
Pro traveler tip: Never plan your Dar es Salaam departure for a Sunday unless you enjoy unnecessary challenges!
After an early morning scramble visiting multiple bus companies, Mbeya-bound buses seemed nonexistent. ABC Upper offered a glimmer of hope with their 5 a.m. departure – far from ideal. Just when frustration set in, my hostel’s owner came through with a golden recommendation: New Force Company. Their afternoon departure at 3:30 p.m. promised a 12-hour journey, perfectly timed to reach Mbeya at sunrise.
Here’s a crucial detail for fellow travelers: New Force operates a convenient downtown ticket office near the fishing harbor (exact location marked in Figure 5).
Important boarding alert! The actual departure point sits 7 km outside the city center. Smart travelers arrive at least an hour early to avoid last-minute chaos.
[
] (Fingers crossed this 12-hour marathon stays on schedule – African bus journeys always keep you guessing!)
Bonus tip: The port area offers fascinating glimpses of local life while you wait. Watch fishermen haul in their catch or observe massive cargo ships unloading – perfect ways to pass time before your journey begins!
I had a similar experience trying to book a bus last minute. It’s so frustrating when everything seems closed. Make sure to plan ahead if you can! The tips in this guide would’ve saved me a lot of hassle.
I had a similar experience trying to book a bus last minute. It’s so frustrating when everything seems closed. Make sure to plan ahead if you can! The tips in this guide would’ve saved me a lot of hassle.
Thanks for sharing your experience! Planning ahead is key, and this guide aims to help with that. Hope you find it useful for future trips! Happy travels!