How to Get to Tanzania
Everything you need to know about reaching Tanzania for your safari. From international flights and visa requirements to local transportation and the journey from Arusha to the national parks.
International Flights
Tanzania has two main international airports serving safari travelers. Most visitors fly into Kilimanjaro International, the closest gateway to the northern safari circuit.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
The primary airport for northern Tanzania safaris. Located between Arusha and Moshi, approximately 46 km from Arusha city center.
Major airlines: KLM, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways. Most connections via Amsterdam, Doha, Addis Ababa, Istanbul, or Nairobi.
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Located in Dar es Salaam. Useful for southern circuit safaris (Selous/Nyerere, Ruaha). Domestic flights connect to Arusha and the Serengeti.
Domestic connections: Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, and Auric Air operate frequent flights to northern circuit airstrips.
Visa Requirements
Most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. The process is straightforward with two main options.
E-Visa (Recommended)
Apply online at the Tanzania Immigration website at least 2 weeks before travel. Processing takes 5-10 business days. Cost: $50 USD for most nationalities. Single-entry, valid for 90 days.
Visa on Arrival
Available at JRO and DAR airports. Bring your passport (valid 6+ months), a completed application form, and $50 USD in cash. Allow 30-60 minutes for processing. Not available to all nationalities.
Health Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from an endemic country. Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended. Consult your travel doctor 6-8 weeks before departure.
Ground Transportation
Getting from the airport to the safari parks involves scenic drives through the Tanzanian landscape. All transfers are handled by our team.
Airport Transfers
Complimentary pick-up from JRO airport to your Arusha hotel. Our driver will greet you at arrivals with a Tanzania Safari sign.
Safari Vehicles
4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for game viewing. Arusha to Serengeti is approximately 325 km (6-7 hour drive through stunning scenery).
Bush Flights
Optional charter flights from Arusha to Serengeti airstrips (1 hour vs. 7 hours by road). Scenic views of the Great Rift Valley and Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Distances
JRO to Arusha: 46 km (1 hr). Arusha to Tarangire: 120 km (2 hrs). Arusha to Ngorongoro: 190 km (4 hrs). Arusha to Serengeti: 325 km (7 hrs).
Getting to Tanzania
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Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Our team can assist with flight recommendations, visa guidance, and all ground transportation arrangements. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the adventure.