Makambako

Makambako is a city in the Tanzanian Southern Highlands. It is at the junction of the roads between Njombe, Iringa, and Mbeya.

Makambako town lies along major road and railway routes connecting the southern and southwestern parts of Tanzania.

Makambako is located in the highlands of southern Tanzania, surrounded by rolling hills, farmland and areas of natural vegetation. Its elevated location gives it a cooler climate than many of Tanzania's lowland areas.

The town is an important local centre for trade and transportation. Agriculture is an important part of the economy in the surrounding area, with crops and livestock produced by local farmers.

Makambako is also a useful stopping point for travellers moving between Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Iringa and Njombe.

Makambako developed as a settlement along important transport routes through the Southern Highlands. The development of the railway and road network increased its importance as a trading and transport centre.

The town has continued to grow as agriculture, commerce and transportation have expanded throughout the Njombe region.

Makambako has a mild highland climate. Temperatures are generally cooler than in Tanzania's coastal and lowland regions.

The rainy season normally occurs during the warmer months, while the dry season is generally cooler and sunnier. Nights can become quite cold, particularly during the dry season.

Makambako is located along the major highway connecting Iringa with Mbeya and other parts of southern Tanzania.

Makambako is served by the Tanzania–Zambia Railway, commonly known as TAZARA. The railway provides a connection between Tanzania and Zambia and is an important transport route through the Southern Highlands.

Makambako is relatively compact, and the town centre can be explored on foot. Taxis, motorcycle taxis and local minibuses are available for travelling around the town and nearby areas.

• Obbey Music Store, Makambako (Near the market right in the center of town). Offers a chance to create your own Bongo Flava CD (Tanzanian Hip-Hop). 

• Durban Park has singles for Tsh 15,000, or Tsh 30,000 for a suite, and Durbin’s has Global Fox and MTV.

From Makambako to Iringa is Tsh 6,000.

• Njombe — The regional capital, surrounded by the forests and highlands of southern Tanzania.
• Iringa — A historic highland city to the north.
• Mbeya — A major city in Tanzania's Southern Highlands.
• Dar es Salaam — Tanzania's largest city and principal commercial centre.
• Tunduma — A major border town near Zambia.
• Ruaha National Park — One of Tanzania's major wildlife destinations, accessible from the Southern Highlands.