Are you interested in traveling to Tanzania? Peruse this travel advisory on how to travel to Tanzania for memorable experiences.

Tanzania, a vibrant country in East Africa, provides a wealth of natural wonders, rich cultures, and unforgettable trip adventures.

From Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar’s beaches, Tanzania has something for every traveler on a Tanzania safari trip.

Accessible by air, rail, sea, and road, Tanzania has three international airports: Kilimanjaro, Julius Nyerere, and Abeid Amani Karume.

Research and obtain necessary travel documents as part of the entry requirements before your travel date, including a tourist visa and health insurance, before exploring the nation’s many safari parks and experiencing its warm hospitality and fascinating traditions when on a safari trip.

This is a detailed overview of traveling to Tanzania!

Traveling to Tanzania by Air

You can easily access or fly into Tanzania by air by taking flights heading to this beautiful safari destination with outstanding safari parks using several airlines, and this is a breakdown of what it entails.

Airports in Tanzania

To fly into Tanzania, you can get in from any of these international airports the nation holds from various locations, e.g.,.

1) Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) 

Located in Dar es Salaam, 13 km/8 miles southwest of the city center, Nyerere International Airport is the primary airport in Tanzania to fly into from different locations.

2) Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) 

Located 50 km/31 miles east of Arusha, near Moshi, Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as a gateway to northern Tanzania’s game parks (Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park among others) and is an easier option to fly into from Europe or Asia, among other locations.

3)     Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) 

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is located on the island of Zanzibar, 5 km/3.1 miles outside of Stone Town.

Other internal airports in the country that receive flights from different locations to multiple routes, including national parks, are.

· Arusha Airport (ARK)

A small domestic airport 8 km/5 miles west of Arusha city center with a good review record, serving regional flights from different locations.

· Mwanza Airport (MWZ) 

A major regional airport in the north side of Tanzania, serving Mwanza City and the Lake Victoria area, among other locations, with excellent reviews.

These airports serve as entry points for tourists to Tanzania’s national parks, safari circuits, and other tourist attractions.

Airlines Flying to and in Tanzania

Tanzania is served by numerous international airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, and 13 other major carriers.

Additionally, Tanzania has a network of domestic airlines, including Air Tanzania, Precision Air, and seven other local carriers, offering flights within the nation to different locations and national parks.

Choose any of these to fly in the nation faster and easier on a preferred date for a memorable trip!

Direct Flights to Tanzania 

Some of the direct flights that fly directly to Tanzania include.

1. Flights from Europe to Tanzania’s Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 8-10 hours, with airlines like Turkish Airlines, KLM, and Lufthansa offering direct flights from major European cities like New York, Amsterdam, etc.
2. The flights from the Middle East to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 5-7 hours, with airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines offering direct flights from major Middle Eastern cities like Dubai.
3. Flights from Africa to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 2-5 hours, with airlines like Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and South African Airways offering direct flights from major African cities.
4. The flights from North America (US/Canada) to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 19 hours (including stopovers), with airlines like Qatar Airways, Delta Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines offering flights from major cities like New York, Toronto, etc.
5. Flights from South America to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 15 hours (including stopovers), with airlines like South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Emirates offering flights.
6. The flights from Asia to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 10-15 hours (including stopovers), with airlines like Kenya Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways offering flights.
7. Flights from Australasia (Australia/New Zealand) to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 20 hours (including stopovers), with airlines like South African Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways offering flights.
8. The flights from the UK to Tanzania Nyerere or Kilimanjaro International Airports take around 11 hours (including stopovers), with airlines like British Airways, Kenya Airways, and Turkish Airlines offering flights.

Please note that the cost ranges of these flights vary according to several factors (date, routes) and nations or continents, whether Europe, Asia, the Middle East, etc.

Immigration, Entry, and Tanzania Visa Requirements

To get access and enter Tanzania at any of the international airports, you need to have these Tanzania travel requirements, e.g.,

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with a blank page for endorsement of visas
• Visas: Required for most countries, obtainable online, at embassies, or on arrival date.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required for travelers from infected countries
• Travel Insurance: Mandatory for Zanzibar tourists, obtainable online

To ensure a smooth trip to Tanzania, book flights in advance before the travel date, check with your airline for travel restrictions and verify that you have all necessary documents, including a passport and visa, noting that visa requirements can change, so it’s essential to check and verify with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Traveling to Tanzania by Land | Bus | Road

Secondly, you can travel to Tanzania by land, bus, or road by traveling or driving from neighboring countries like Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Zambia, but be prepared for long distances and potential border crossing delays on some routes.

Border Crossings

From neighboring countries, you need to go through the most popular routes, entry, or border crossings to get to Tanzania, i.e.,.

• From Kenya: Namanga, Holili, and Lunga Lunga border crossings
• From Uganda: Mutukula and Kagitumba border crossings
• From Burundi: Kigoma border crossing
• From Rwanda: Rusumo border crossing
• From Zambia: Tunduma and Nakonde border crossings
• From Malawi: Songwe border crossing
• From Mozambique: Ruvuma and Unity border crossings

Transportation Options 

Some of the public transport options to use when traveling to Tanzania by land, bus, or road to the nation’s different locations through the most popular routes for an unforgettable trip are included.

By Land Travel Tips

To travel to Tanzania by road on the most popular routes, ensure you meet the required entry requirements, including a passport and visas, car insurance, a driver’s license or international driving permit, and a temporary road license (USD 20/month after a 7-day grace period).

Additionally, consider the following essential tips: research reputable bus companies, and bus stations, plan for potential delays, ensure necessary documents (international driving permit), be aware of varying road conditions in various locations (bad or good roads), prioritize road safety, prepare for contingencies, and consider hiring a local guide or driver for assistance.

Lastly, it is essential to check the review pages of options taken and preferably get a cheaper date to book.

1)      Bus Services

Several companies, such as Modern Coast, Easy Coach, and Mash East Africa, operate daily essential services from neighboring countries like Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, and Malawi on the most popular routes with travel time ranging from 8 to 36 hours to get to Arusha or Dar es Salaam bus stations depending on where you are coming from at an average cost of about $15 to $100 per person on a trip.

2)      Private Cars and Taxis

Travelers can also use a private vehicle, cars, or taxis (public transport means), but be prepared for long journeys and potential delays on most popular routes, though the government has put up several means and measures to curb this on its good roads as maintenance works continue on the poorly maintained roads, especially those leading to several national parks and game reserves for a memorable trip.

With these in mind, rest assured that you will have a safe trip to Tanzania!

Traveling to Tanzania by Water | Ferry 

Additionally, tourists can still get to Tanzania by water by taking a ferry ride or ship cruise from Zanzibar, the Indian Ocean, or other coastal towns or routes.

1)      Tanzania’s Sea Ports 

This beautiful country has four major, well-equipped seaports you can get in from, like Dar Es Salaam, Tanga, Mtwara in Mtwara region, and Zanzibar, serving as gateways to the world and landlocked countries, e.g., Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Malawi.

It is important to check review pages for the most up-to-date information.

2)      Ferries to Tanzania 

The ferry services are available from Zanzibar, Kenya, and Uganda to various coastal towns in Tanzania.

Major public and private ferry operators, including Azam Marine, Fast Ferries, Sea Breeze, Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries, and MV Victoria, etc., use a series of crafts from sailing dhows to tourist-class twin-hull boats.

The travel time depending on where you are coming from (Kenya, Uganda, etc.) ranges from 2 to 24 hours, and ferry fares range or cost from $10 to $100 depending on the option chosen and distances among other factors.

It is crucial to wear life jackets and check review pages for the most up-to-date information.

By Water Travel Tips 

When traveling to Tanzania by ferry, note that schedules may change due to weather conditions, and additional fees may apply for luggage or vehicle transport.

To ensure a smooth journey, book tickets beforehand, research the ferry operator’s review pages, reputation, and safety record, bring essentials like life jackets, snacks, and water, be prepared for delays, and ensure you have the necessary documents like passports and visas.

Follow these guidelines for a safe trip to Tanzania across the waterscapes!

Traveling to Tanzania by Train or Rail 

Lastly, you can get to Tanzania by train or railway for those seeking some level of comfort.

Tanzania Railways

Tanzania has two rail networks:

• Tanzania Railways Limited (TRL) (Operates trains from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, Mwanza, and Tunduma (border with Zambia))
• Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) (the least common, which connects Tanzania to Zambia at Kapiri Mposhi train station).

The most popular routes of trains connect Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, Mwanza, Mtwara region, Tunduma, and Kapiri Mposhi (Zambia) train stations.

The train fares vary depending on class and route, with travel times ranging from 24 to 72 hours.

Classes of electric train service include First, Second, and Third Class, with amenities like safe food, beverages, restrooms, and luggage storage available on board, as seen from the tickets issued.

To ensure a smooth journey, book tickets in advance, check train schedules and fares, bring necessary documents, check review pages, and be prepared for delays.

Book your train tickets today for a smooth journey to Tanzania!

Getting Around Southern and Northern Tanzania

When in Tanzania, for explorations and safaris in the different destinations and places across the nation, you will need to choose from the different options to traverse the available routes for maximized trip experiences.

Northern Safari Circuit Tanzania

Tanzania’s Northern Safari circuit features iconic travel destinations like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks.

Start in Arusha and drive to these national parks or safari camps and lodges, passing through famous towns like Mto Wa Mbu, or fly to the Serengeti National Park.

A stop at the Olduvai Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its paleoanthropological significance and stunning views as you head to the Ngorongoro Crater.

Safari options range from luxury to budget-friendly flying and lodging (safari lodges and camps), with prices varying from $500 to $1,600 per person per night. Fly into Arusha via Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airports.

Explore concession areas with camps in Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks, as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro, for a more unique experience, perfect for walking safaris, hiking, and cultural experiences.

Light aircraft flights connect the Serengeti National Park to Pemba and Mafia Islands.

Contact a local tour operator to arrange for you a remarkable safari trip to northern Tanzania today!

Southern Circuit Tanzania

Southern Tanzania’s wilderness areas, such as Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park, offer incredible game viewing and exclusive safari experiences.

To access these many areas, fly into Dar es Salaam and take domestic flights to the national parks, as the roads can be impassable due to weather conditions.

This region is highly regarded by safari enthusiasts for its excellent game viewing, magnificent safari camps, uncrowded and exclusive safari experiences, and range of activities, including walking safaris, boating, and fly camping.

Daily scheduled light aircraft flights connect Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park.

Camps in the western and southern parks offer good value for money, with prices ranging from $450 to $1,000 per person per night.

Inquire from a reputable tour operator to arrange the best options to tour for memorable trip experiences!

Zanzibar 

This is a vibrant island off Tanzania’s coast that offers a rich history, stunning beaches, and a diverse culture. You can get to Zanzibar City by taking a domestic flight from Tanzania using domestic flight operators like Air Tanzania.

Tour during the dry seasons (January-February and August-November) for snorkeling, diving, and spice tours.

Explore Stone Town and coral reefs and enjoy water sports. Getting around is easy with taxis, dala-dalas, private transfers, and scooter rentals.

Be sure to negotiate prices, wear rock shoes, and use reef-friendly sunscreen. With its unique culture and stunning landscapes, Zanzibar is a must-visit destination for any traveler on a trip.

For detailed information and bookings, it is best to contact your travel agent to arrange the best options!

Dar Es Salaam 

Dar Es Salaam city in Tanzania offers various transportation options for getting around, e.g., taxis, ride shares (including Uber and Bolt), and buses (like dala-dalas) are available.

DART (Dar Rapid Transit) is a bus system replacing dala-dalas that is also being used.

Ferries connect the city to southern beaches, while Bajajis (motorized tricycles) offer a flexible alternative.

For longer distances, buses, trains, domestic flights, and charter services connect major towns and national parks.

Always negotiate prices and prioritize safety, especially during rush hour and at night.

Choose the best transport option to suit your travel style and maximize your Tanzania travel experience.

Additional Tips for Traveling to Tanzania

According to several Tanzania travel advisories, when traveling to this nation, you need to verify and consider some of these travel tips and information for safe travels, and they include.

1)    Entry, Exit, and Tanzania Visa Requirements 

To enter Tanzania, obtain a tourist visa ($50-$100) online (Tanzania eVisa) or through an embassy, ensuring a valid passport (6 months validity), proof of yellow fever vaccination, and sufficient funds. Tourist visa holders are not permitted to engage in volunteer work.

Check entry requirements, apply beforehand, and consider travel insurance (e.g. from Heymondo or Zanzibar Insurance Corporation) to avoid complications upon reaching the international airport.

2)   Travel and Health Insurance 

Before traveling to Tanzania and Zanzibar, obtain mandatory international health insurance certification, covering medical expenses and air ambulance repatriation. Consider supplemental insurance for medical emergency evacuation.

Purchase travel insurance beforehand, from Heymondo or Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, to avoid complications upon arrival and for any emergency that might arise.

3)      Health (Local Health Authorities, Medical Facilities Where to Seek Medical Care Immediately) 

• Before traveling to Tanzania, ensure you have a valid health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation.
• Consult your healthcare provider to determine the necessary vaccinations, including routine vaccines and those specific to Tanzania, such as yellow fever vaccinations.
• Pack essential medications, including pain relievers, antihistamines, antibiotics, and antidiarrheals
• Upon arrival, take necessary precautions to avoid contact with body fluids, which can transmit deadly diseases like Marburg virus disease and Rift Valley fever, which is a severe disease.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing and apply insect repellent to prevent insect-borne illnesses, especially those spread through mosquito bites.
• Avoid drinking tap water and uncooked meats or meals to avoid contracting related diseases, so it is best to carry and drink bottled drinking water when heading to national parks for safaris and eat from good restaurants with good review reports.
• Only drink alcohol from known places and it must have required seals.
• Tanzania has reported cases of severe diseases, including Marburg virus disease and altitude sickness, particularly in high-altitude areas.
• Be cautious when climbing mountains and seek immediate medical attention or medical services if you develop symptoms like muscle pain or severe headaches.
• In case of medical emergencies, seek health care/medical care immediately from local healthcare providers. However, be aware that healthcare/medical facilities in Tanzania may not meet Western standards, and medical evacuation may be necessary.
• The Mtwara region has reported outbreaks of diseases like Rift Valley fever, a deadly disease. Exercise increased caution when traveling to this area and follow proper precautions to avoid contact with infected animals or people.
• Local health authorities in Tanzania have implemented disease control measures, including surveillance and outbreak response. Stay informed about local health conditions and follow local advice /guidance from healthcare providers.

By taking these health precautions, you can minimize your risk of contracting severe diseases and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Tanzania.

4) Safety and Security 

Tanzania poses safety and security risks, including terrorism, violent crime, and violence from terrorist groups. Be aware of potential targets like public events, tourist areas, refugee camps, and transportation systems.

Report violent crimes to Tanzanian authorities (local police or local authorities) and the U.S. embassy e.g. sexual assault and be prepared for limited resources and support.

5) Local Laws 

This nation has local laws and regulations that tourists must respect lest they risk arrest by the Tanzanian authorities (local police or local authorities).

These include dress code (dress modestly), public behavior (avoid public displays of affection), prohibited activities, or violent crimes like sexual assault, drug trafficking of illegal drugs, sexual orientation of underage children, and photography of government buildings and military installations.

Be mindful of local customs, especially during Ramadan, and be aware of laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals to minimize the increased risk of arrest and deportation.

6) Travel, Transportation, and Road Conditions 

Tanzania’s road conditions are challenging, with poorly maintained road sites, heavy traffic, and unpredictable driving habits. Use reputable transportation services, wear seatbelts, and stay alert.

Travel advisories strongly recommend that you research and verify transport sites and road traffic laws, conditions, and public transportation options before traveling and avoid public buses and motorcycle taxis in unfamiliar surroundings to minimize the increased risk of being robbed.

It is important to check review pages for the most up-to-date information on ride-hailing apps.

7) Local Customs and Code of Conduct in Zanzibar

When visiting Zanzibar, respect the local Islamic culture by dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and not drinking alcohol or taking revealing photos.

Remove shoes when required and ask permission before photographing residents to ensure a respectful and responsible visit or trip.

8) Best Time to Visit Tanzania

The nation’s tropical climate varies by low or high altitudes, with temperatures between 20°C and 32°C, which makes it a year-round destination.

The nation has two rainy seasons or green seasons: March to June and November to December.

The dry season, June to October, is best for wildlife viewing, while the green season, or rainy season, is ideal for birdwatching in the national parks.

9) Tanzania Currency 

The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but US dollars are also accepted. Exchange euros or dollars at authorized offices or banks.

Use Mastercard or Visa-enabled credit cards for withdrawals and major purchases, but have local currency for small purchases and rural areas.

10)  Tanzania Time Zone

The nation is in the East Africa Time (EAT) zone, UTC+3/GMT+3, and the nation doesn’t observe daylight hours or saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.

11)  Tanzania National Parks and Reserves

When traveling to Tanzania, visiting its renowned national parks and reserves is a must. However, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable African safari experience. These include.

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from wild animals, as they can be unpredictable.
• Avoid feeding or touching wild animals, as this can disrupt their natural habitat.
• Stay alert and follow instructions from reputable and professional guides.
• Be cautious of violent crime in certain areas, especially at night, so seek advice and guidance.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and always keep valuables secure to avoid tempting people into engaging in the violent crime of theft and robbery.
• Stay informed about local conditions and follow advice from reputable and professional guides/park rangers.
• Take necessary precautions against mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases like malaria and Zika virus; therefore, carry a bug spray or insect repellent to avoid the need for health care.
• Avoid contact with body fluids from animals or unknown people, which can transmit diseases like HIV, Marburg virus disease, Mpox, and Ebola to prevent the need for emergency health care.
• Ensure you have access to quality healthcare in case of an emergency.
• If planning on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, be aware of the risks of altitude sickness so carry necessary altitude sickness medicines and take necessary precautions, such as ascending gradually and staying hydrated.
• Ensure you have proper medical evacuation insurance in case of an emergency.
• Be aware of poorly maintained roads and infrastructure in certain areas.
• Stay informed about local conditions, especially in areas like the Mtwara Region.
• Follow instructions from park rangers and guides and stay alert to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

By taking these precautions, you can minimize certain security incidents and have a safe and enjoyable safari experience exploring Tanzania’s incredible safari parks and reserves.

12)  Tanzania Safari Packing List

Remember to arrange and pack some of these clothing and personal essentials when traveling to Tanzania, e.g.,

• Essentials: Carry essential documents like passports, visas, and travel insurance, along with cash and debit/credit cards to help travelers withdraw funds when in need.
• Clothing: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and layers for varying temperatures, plus Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect yourself from mosquito bites and tree branch cuts, etc.
• Safari and Outdoor Gear: Pack binoculars, a camera, a power bank, special activity gear e.g. for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro), a water bottle, and insect repellent for outdoor adventures.
• Health and Hygiene: Bring prescription medications, malaria prophylaxis, insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer to stay healthy.
• Miscellaneous: Don’t forget energy snacks, altitude sickness medicines, a reusable bag, travel-size games, and a portable charger for added convenience.

Consider this travel information for memorable and hassle-free journeys to Tanzania!

Traveling to Tanzania FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1.    Is Tanzania Safe to Visit?

Generally, Tanzania is considered a safe country to visit and explore, but like any safari nation, petty theft and scams can occur. Exercise increased caution or normal precautions to ensure your safety.

2.    Can US Citizens Travel to Tanzania?

Yes, US citizens can travel to Tanzania, but they need valid passports and visas, which can be obtained upon arrival or in advance through the Tanzanian embassy or consulate.

3.    Is There a Direct Flight from the USA to Tanzania?

No, there are no direct flights from the USA to Tanzania. Most flights have layovers in Europe or the Middle East before they fly into Tanzania’s international airports.

4.    Which Airport Do You Fly to for Tanzania? 

The primary airport for international flights is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar-es-Salaam, but some flights also arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).

5.    How Long Is the Flight from the US to Tanzania?

The flight duration from the US to Tanzania varies depending on the departure city and layovers but expect around 18-24 hours.

With all these available options on how to travel to Tanzania, explore this top safari destination today for lifelong trip memories. Contact us now to organize your flights and journeys today!