Journey from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia: The TAZARA Experience

Traveling from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi on the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) is an adventure that reflects both the charm and challenges of rail travel in the region. As passengers gather at the Dar es Salaam train station, they bring with them a sense of anticipation, despite the reality of potential delays and inconsistent service. This article explores the journey, the landscape, and the future of TAZARA.

Arrival at the Station

Inside the bustling train station of Dar es Salaam, a sea of passengers is surrounded by heaps of luggage while a gentle breeze filters through open windows. Just before the expected departure at 3:50 PM for the Mukuba Express, an announcement crackles over the loudspeaker: the train will now leave two hours late.

A collective sigh rises from the crowd. Under the large ceiling, pigeons flit about, disappearing into gaps left by worn tiles. Given the train’s reputation for delays, most passengers take this news in stride; a two-hour wait is almost a given on this line.

The Scenic Route

TAZARA’s route unfolds across Tanzania’s southern highlands and into Zambia’s copper belt, ultimately reaching Kapiri Mposhi, approximately 1,860 kilometers (1,156 miles) away. Official schedules suggest this journey takes about 40 hours.

For locals, it’s an affordable way to access areas lacking direct road connections. Tourists, on the other hand, relish the unique opportunity to encounter Tanzania’s landscapes well beyond the typical city and safari tours. A first-class sleeper ticket to Mbeya, a scenic travel hub near the Zambian border, is a mere $20, allowing travelers to unwind in stunning surroundings of coffee farms and mountains.

TAZARA’s Proud Yet Challenging Legacy

This year marks the 50th anniversary of TAZARA, yet the railway has faced numerous difficulties over its lifetime. Financial constraints have led to a reliance on foreign investment for maintenance and upgrades, resulting in aging infrastructure that struggles to meet its original operational goals.

With frequent delays and breakdowns, predicting travel times on the TAZARA can feel like a gamble. From derailments due to overcrowded cars to run-ins with local wildlife — such as an incident in August when a train hit an African buffalo — the unpredictability is part of the experience.

Recent Safety Concerns

Since the start of 2025, TAZARA has confronted severe incidents that underline the urgent need for upgrades and better safety protocols. In April, a tragic derailment of two locomotives in southern Tanzania resulted in the deaths of both operators. Then, in June, another train derailed in Zambia, only to be hit by a rescue train, leading to the death of a TAZARA employee and injuring multiple crew members and passengers.

Following these events, passenger services faced suspension in early September due to “unexpected operational challenges.” Issues arose when available locomotives were stuck in Tanzania after a fire damaged one of the crucial bridges on the route.

Hope for the Future

Fortunately, significant improvements are on the way for TAZARA thanks to a substantial investment from the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The $1.4 billion funding commitment aims to renovate the beleaguered rail line over the next three years. The agreement mentions maintaining passenger service, although periodic disruptions are expected during the renovations.

While much of the funding focuses on track rehabilitation, $400 million will be allocated for acquiring 32 new locomotives and 762 new wagons, which will “greatly enhance freight and passenger transport capacity,” as stated by TAZARA officials. In exchange for this investment, CCECC will hold a 30-year concession to manage TAZARA, enabling them to recover their investment before passing everyday operations back to the Tanzanian and Zambian governments.

Conclusion

The TAZARA railway symbolizes both the struggle and resilience of rail travel in southern Africa. Though challenges persist, the forecast for TAZARA suggests promising advancements, paving the way for both travelers and nations alike.

• The TAZARA railway offers a unique journey with breathtaking landscapes.
• Recent serious incidents highlight the need for infrastructure upgrades.
• A major investment by CCECC aims to revitalize the railway and improve services.
• Passenger experiences can be unpredictable, requiring patience and flexibility.