It is best to pre-book your ticket, either by phone, mobile money payment or go to the office of the bus company days ahead of time to purchase your ticket. If you haven't traveled by bus before it is best to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure so you can easily find your bus barring any complications. When arriving at Ubungo terminal, you will be overwhelmed with agents touts wanting to sell you a ticket. Often these 'agents' will overcharge you for the bus fare or can sell you a fake ticket.
Even thier ID can be fake so be confident and make your way into the terminal though they will continue to 'escort' you even demanding to see your ticket You can purchase a ticket at the doorway to the bus. Look carefully to see if the person has a company t-shirt and the seating plan for the bus. You will be asked to pay tsh at the gate, though by showing your ticket it is free to pass. Once you enter the station, it is chaotic and a bit challenging to look through the buses for the company which you have a ticket or has been recommended to you.
You can ask someone, but they may ask for a tip or try to lure you to another bus. Just take your time and be careful as the station is quite crowded and disorganized. The buses generally depart on the hour starting at 6 am. Each passenger is allowed up to 20 kg of luggage, so do not pay for extra luggage under the bus. Be sure to note which compartment your bags are placed so they are easy to monitor and retrieve on arrival in Iringa.
Do not leave your hand luggage on the overhead racks when the bus stops at the rest breaks 10 mins each The staff do not secure the bus and often thieves come aboard and take laptop, ipads etc. Theft can also happen while you are sleeping so it is best to put a small lock on your backpack or briefcase or keep it by your feet.
Be very cautious of eating food from the rest stops. It can be reheated for several days leading to potential food poisoning.
