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Getting to Tanzania and Getting Around

Your Complete Travel Guide

HOW TO REACH TANZANIA AND TRAVEL WITHIN THE COUNTRY

Getting to Tanzania is simple and convenient. International visitors usually arrive through one of two main airports: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) if heading to the northern safari parks, or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam for the southern parks.

Once in Tanzania, the best way to travel between destinations is either by safari vehicle with a professional guide or by taking a fly-in safari for faster access to remote national parks.

Most travelers require a Tanzanian visa, which is easily obtainable online before travel or upon arrival at the airport. (Visa details are explained below.)

Different Safari Circuits in Tanzania

The Northern Circuit

This is the most famous safari region in Tanzania. From Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), visitors can easily access:

  • Serengeti National Park – home to the Great Wildebeest Migration
  • Ngorongoro Crater – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see the Big Five
  • Tarangire National Park – famous for elephants and ancient baobab trees

We collect you directly from the airport and transfer you in our specially adapted 4×4 safari vehicles. Alternatively, you can choose a scenic bush flight into airstrips within the parks.

 

The Southern Circuit

For those seeking a quieter safari, the Southern Circuit is perfect. From Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), you can explore:

  • Nyerere National Park (Selous) – one of Africa’s largest protected areas
  • Ruaha National Park – known for baobabs, lions, and vast wilderness
  • Mikumi National Park – a convenient safari destination with abundant wildlife

As always, our team will meet you at the airport and handle all transfers.

 

The Western Circuit

Western Tanzania offers exclusive, off-the-beaten-path safaris. This remote region is only accessible by domestic flights from Arusha or Dar es Salaam. Highlights include:

  • Gombe Stream National Park – where Jane Goodall conducted her chimpanzee research
  • Katavi National Park – wild, remote, and perfect for adventurous safari-goers
  • Mahale Mountains National Park – stunning scenery and the best chimp trekking in Tanzania

Getting to Zanzibar – Beach Escape After Your Safari

The tropical island of Zanzibar is an easy extension after your safari. Its Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) welcomes international and domestic flights. You can fly to Zanzibar directly from Arusha or Dar es Salaam, and we will arrange your transfers to your beach resort.

Getting to Mount Kilimanjaro

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our team will collect you and take you to your base hotel before your climb. If you’ve booked a pre-climb night, we will pick you up from your hotel the following day and transfer you to the starting point of your trek.

Domestic Flights in Tanzania

Because of Tanzania’s vast size, domestic flights are a common and efficient way to connect safari parks and islands. Charter flights are also available for those who want a personalized travel experience. If Zanzibar is part of your itinerary, expect at least one short domestic flight.

Fly-In Safaris – The Benefits of Remote Access

While road safaris are more affordable, they often involve long travel times between parks. A fly-in safari saves time and provides access to remote national parks, such as Katavi and Mahale, where crowds are rare and game viewing is outstanding.

Benefits of fly-in safaris:

  • Access to remote wilderness areas
  • Exceptional wildlife encounters with fewer visitors
  • Luxury lodges and camps in exclusive locations
  • A more relaxed safari experience without long drives

Self-Drive vs. Guided Safaris in Tanzania

Self-Drive Safaris

Self-driving is generally not recommended in Tanzania due to rough roads, challenging navigation, and limited signage. Experience in off-road driving and vehicle maintenance is essential.

Guided Safaris

A guided safari ensures a stress-free experience. Our expert guides:

  • Drive you in comfortable 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers
  • Know the best routes, wildlife viewing spots, and migration crossings
  • Ensure safe and timely arrival at lodges and camps

Our guides are passionate professionals who will enrich your safari with their knowledge of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and culture—often becoming the highlight of your journey.

TANZANIA VISA REQUIREMENTS

Do I Need a Visa for Tanzania?

Most visitors require a visa. It is possible to obtain one on arrival, but we recommend applying for an e-visa in advance to avoid long queues. Apply only through the official Tanzania government portal.

Processing Time & Cost

  • Ordinary tourist visa: USD 50
  • Validity: up to 90 days
  • Processing time: typically, 2–4 weeks

 

Required Travel Documents

When traveling to Tanzania, make sure you bring:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months after departure
  • A yellow fever certificate (if arriving from a yellow-fever region such as Kenya or Uganda)
  • Proof of return or onward flight
  • Travel insurance documents
  • A credit card or proof of funds

Experience Tanzania with Us

From your first airport pick-up to your safari adventure, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar beach escape, we handle every detail. Speak to one of our Tanzania travel experts today and let us design your perfect journey.

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