Planning a safari in Tanzania? One of the most common questions travelers ask is how to get there. More specifically, they ask about flights to Serengeti. The Serengeti is one of the most famous national parks in the world. It’s home to wild animals, beautiful landscapes, and the famous Great Migration. To enjoy all of this, you first need to know the best way to get there. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about flights to Serengeti.
Where Is Serengeti Located?
The Serengeti is in northern Tanzania, close to the border with Kenya. It is a large area that stretches over 14,000 square kilometers. Because the park is so big and not near a major city, most people need to take flights to Serengeti to save time.
Why Choose Flights to Serengeti?
There are many reasons why people prefer flights to Serengeti instead of long drives. First, Tanzania is a large country. If you land in Dar es Salaam or even Arusha, driving to the park can take many hours. Flights are quicker, easier, and more comfortable.
Also, the roads can be rough, especially during the rainy season. By flying, you avoid bumpy rides and save energy for your safari. Most safari travelers agree that flights to Serengeti are worth the extra cost for the time and comfort they offer.
Where Do Flights to Serengeti Land?
There are no international airports inside the Serengeti, but there are several small airstrips in and around the park. These airstrips are where most flights into Serengeti land. The most common ones include:
- Seronera Airstrip – Located in central Serengeti. It’s the most popular for safari travelers.
- Kogatende Airstrip – Used mostly during the Great Migration in the northern part of the park.
- Grumeti Airstrip – Near luxury lodges in the western corridor.
- Ndutu Airstrip – Great for those visiting during calving season in the southern Serengeti.
When booking flights to Serengeti, your travel agent or safari company will choose the airstrip that is closest to your lodge or camp.
Which Airports Offer Flights to Serengeti?
Most flights to Serengeti start from the following airports:
- Arusha Airport (ARK) – The main domestic airport for travelers coming from Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam.
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – If you’re flying in from abroad, this is where you’ll likely land first. From here, you can take a short drive to Arusha and catch your flight to the Serengeti.
- Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) – Some safari travelers combine beach time in Zanzibar with a Serengeti safari. Direct flights to Serengeti are available from here too.
Which Airlines Offer Flights to Serengeti?
Several local airlines in Tanzania offer flights to Serengeti. These include:
- Regional Air
- Coastal Aviation
- Auric Air
- Flightlink
These airlines operate small planes, usually with 9 to 13 seats. You may share the plane with other tourists going to different lodges. Most of these flights to Serengeti run daily and follow a “hop-on, hop-off” schedule across several airstrips.
How Much Do Flights to Serengeti Cost?
The price of flights to Serengeti depends on a few things:
- Your starting point (Arusha, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, etc.)
- The season (high season is more expensive)
- How early you book
- The airstrip you are flying into
As a general guide, prices for flights to Serengeti from Arusha range between $200 and $350 one way. Flights from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam may cost more.
Always check with your tour operator. Some safari packages include flights into Serengeti in the total price.
What to Expect During the Flight
Flights are usually short and scenic. Most take between 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route. The planes fly low, so you can see the beautiful landscapes below, including mountains, rivers, and wildlife.
The planes are small, so you may feel some bumps. There’s no cabin crew or food service, so make sure to eat before you board and carry a bottle of water. Most importantly, keep your camera ready. The views are amazing.
Tips for Booking Flights to Serengeti
Here are a few tips to help you with your travel plans:
- Book early: Especially during peak season, seats fill up fast.
- Check baggage limits: Small planes allow only soft bags and have strict weight limits.
- Pick the right airstrip: Make sure your flight lands near your lodge or camp.
- Ask your tour operator: They often get better prices and can manage your full travel plan.
- Pack essentials in a carry-on: Like medications, sunscreen, and documents.
Best Time to Book Flights to Serengeti
You can take flights to Serengeti all year round. But the best time depends on what you want to see:
- June to October: Best for general wildlife viewing.
- July to September: Best for watching the Great Migration in the north.
- January to March: Calving season in the south.
- April and May: Rainy season. Fewer tourists and sometimes cheaper flights.
No matter when you go, flights make your journey faster and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a safari, flights to Serengeti are the easiest and most comfortable way to reach this world-famous park. They save time, offer great views, and let you start your adventure as soon as you land. Whether you’re traveling from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or even Zanzibar, there are many options available.
Talk to your safari planner, compare prices, and book your flights to Serengeti early. A smooth flight means a better safari. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore one of the wildest places on Earth.
FAQS
Where do you fly into for the Serengeti?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is a popular starting point for fly-in safaris to the Serengeti. Travelers can also depart from Arusha Airport (ARK). From either airport, flights to the Serengeti’s seven airstrips typically take between 1 and 5 hours, depending on the destination within the park.
How do I get to Serengeti from Kenya?
There is no direct route from Nairobi to the Serengeti. However, you can take a taxi to Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL), fly to Mara Serena Airport (MRE), and then drive to the Serengeti. Another option is to travel by bus from Nairobi to Serengeti via Sirare, which takes several hours.
How much does it cost to travel to Serengeti?
The cost of visiting Serengeti National Park varies depending on the level of comfort. A one-week safari typically ranges from $2,500 USD for a budget trip to around $7,500 USD for a luxury experience. Booking through platforms like TourRadar can help manage costs, as many tours include accommodations, meals, and park permits in the overall price.
What city is closest to Serengeti?
Which city is closest to the Serengeti? Arusha is the nearest city and the main starting point for most safari tours. With a population of just over 400,000, Arusha serves as a gateway to many of Tanzania’s top attractions.
Is it cheaper to fly to Kenya or Tanzania?
Airfares to Kenya are often slightly lower because of the greater number of available flight options, which helps keep prices down. In fact, depending on your departure point, some travelers heading to Tanzania may need to connect through Nairobi. Both Kenya and Tanzania offer a wide range of accommodation choices to suit different budgets.
