Tanzania Announces Updated Transport Fare Structure for Buses and Taxis

The government of Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) has officially released a revised fare structure for long-distance buses, city buses (daladala), and metered taxis. The new rates aim to ensure fair pricing for passengers while reflecting current operating costs within the transport sector.

New Long-Distance Bus Fares

According to LATRA, fares for long-distance buses will depend on both the type of bus and road conditions:

• Ordinary buses
  • Tarmac roads: TSh 57.93 per kilometer
  • Gravel roads: TSh 66.62 per kilometer
• Semi-luxury buses
  • Tarmac roads: TSh 74.18 per kilometer
  • Gravel roads: Not specified

These changes are intended to standardize pricing across operators and improve service delivery nationwide.

Updated Daladala (City Bus) Fares

For urban commuters, particularly in cities like Dar es Salaam, LATRA has introduced a distance-based fare system:

• Up to 10 km: TSh 700
• 11–15 km: TSh 800
• 16–20 km: TSh 900
• 21–25 km: TSh 1,000
• 26–30 km: TSh 1,200
• 31–35 km: TSh 1,400
• 36–40 km: TSh 1,500

Importantly, student fares remain unchanged at TSh 200 per trip, regardless of distance, offering continued relief to learners.

Metered Taxi Fare Guidelines

The updated structure also covers metered taxis with a capacity of up to four passengers:

• Minimum fare (up to 1 km): TSh 4,000 – 5,000
• Starting charge per trip: TSh 1,100 – 1,200
• Per kilometer: TSh 1,100 – 1,300
• Per minute: TSh 120 – 150

Additional charges include:

• Waiting fee: up to 3%
• Commission: 10% – 20%
• LATRA levy: 0.5% – 1%

Impact on Commuters and Transport Sector

The revised fare framework is expected to bring greater transparency and consistency in public transport pricing. For daily commuters, especially in major urban centers, the structured pricing system offers predictability when planning travel expenses.

Transport operators, on the other hand, are anticipated to benefit from a regulated system that aligns fares with operational realities such as fuel costs, maintenance, and road conditions.

Conclusion

With these updates, LATRA continues to play a key role in regulating and improving Tanzania’s transport sector. Passengers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new fares and report any non-compliance to the relevant authorities.