Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mbeya
POP 270,000
The thriving town of Mbeya sprawls at about 1700m in the shadow of Loleza Peak
(2656m), in a gap between the verdant Mbeya mountain range to the north and the Poroto
mountains to the southeast. It was founded in 1927 as a supply centre for the gold rush at
Lupa, to the north, but today owes its existence to its position on the Tazara railway line
and the Tanzam highway, and its status as a major trade and transit junction between Tan-
zania, Zambia and Malawi. The surrounding area is lush, mountainous and scenic. It's also
a major farming region for coffee, tea, bananas and cocoa. While central Mbeya is on the
scruffy side (especially around the bus station), the cool climate, jacaranda trees and views
of the hills compensate, and there are many nearby excursions.
Mbeya
Sleeping
