If you are planning a trip to East Africa and wondering about the best airport to fly into Tanzania, this guide is for you. Tanzania is a beautiful country known for its wildlife, safaris, beaches, and friendly people. It is home to the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and many national parks.
Choosing the right airport can save you time, money, and stress. The best airport depends on where you are going, your travel plans, and how you want to connect with other places in Tanzania. In this blog, we will help you understand your options and make the best choice.
Major Airports in Tanzania
When choosing the best airport to fly into Tanzania, it’s important to know that the country has three main international airports:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Located in Dar es Salaam
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Near Arusha and Moshi
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Located in Zanzibar
Each of these airports serves different areas and types of travelers. Let’s look at each one to help you decide.
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
If you are flying from Europe, the Middle East, or other parts of Africa, you will likely land at Julius Nyerere International Airport. It is the busiest airport in the country and is located in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city.
This airport is a good choice if you are:
- Visiting Dar es Salaam or southern Tanzania
- Connecting to local flights with Air Tanzania, Precision Air, or Coastal Aviation
- Starting your trip on the mainland before heading to Zanzibar
The airport is about 12 kilometers from the city center. You’ll find taxis, shuttles, and hotel transfers at the airport. There are restaurants, money exchange booths, SIM card shops, and ATMs, but it is recommended to carry some US dollars for emergencies.
If your main destination is Zanzibar, Arusha, or the Serengeti, DAR may not be the best airport to fly into Tanzania, as you’ll need to take another domestic flight.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Many travelers looking for the best airport to fly into Tanzania choose Kilimanjaro International Airport. This airport is located between Arusha and Moshi in the north. It is very close to major tourist destinations like:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Lake Manyara
- Tarangire National Park
If your goal is to go on a safari or climb Mount Kilimanjaro, this is likely the best option. The airport is small but modern and usually less crowded than Julius Nyerere. There are also good transport options, including hotel pickups and taxis to Arusha or Moshi.
Most international flights here come from Amsterdam, Doha, Istanbul, or Nairobi. Some regional airlines also connect from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Entebbe. For safari lovers, Kilimanjaro is often the best airport to fly into Tanzania.
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
If you are heading straight to the beach, then the best airport to fly into Tanzania may be in Zanzibar. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is located near Stone Town and serves as the main gateway to the island.
This airport is ideal if you are:
- Planning a Zanzibar beach holiday
- Attending a destination wedding
- Visiting historical Stone Town
- Traveling from the Middle East, Italy, or South Africa
The airport is growing and now handles many direct international flights. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Flydubai often fly here directly. There are also many daily connections from Dar es Salaam.
Although it is a smaller airport, the location makes it one of the best airports to fly into Tanzania for beachgoers and honeymooners.
Domestic Flights and Connections
After arriving in Tanzania, you may need to take another flight to reach your final destination. This is very common, especially if you land in one city but want to explore another region.
Some trusted domestic airlines include:
- Air Tanzania
- Precision Air
- Coastal Aviation
- ZanAir
- Auric Air
These airlines connect major cities and popular parks, such as the Serengeti, Lake Natron, Selous Game Reserve, and Ruaha National Park. When choosing the best airport to fly into Tanzania, always check how easy it is to catch your connecting flight.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Airport
When deciding on the best airport to fly into Tanzania, consider the following:
- Your destination – Safari, beach, city, or mountain?
- Your international flight options – Which airlines fly to your region?
- Budget and layovers – Direct flights are easier but sometimes more expensive
- Visa process – All major airports issue tourist visas on arrival
- Customs and luggage – Smaller airports often mean faster checkouts
- Airport facilities – Larger airports have more services
Choosing the right airport can make your trip smoother and save you time and energy. Always check your full route before booking.
Best Choice for Safari Trips
For safari lovers heading to northern Tanzania, Kilimanjaro International Airport is often the best airport to fly into Tanzania. It is close to the top game parks and saves you from long road travel. Many tour companies also pick up clients directly from this airport.
If you land in Dar es Salaam and want to go to Arusha, you’ll need to take a domestic flight or drive for over 10 hours. That’s why Kilimanjaro is the better choice for safari tours.
Best Choice for Beach Holidays
For those going to Zanzibar, flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is the most convenient. You land right on the island and can reach your resort or hotel in minutes. You can skip the ferry from Dar es Salaam and avoid the crowds.
Best Choice for City Visits or Business
If your trip involves city activities, shopping, or business meetings, Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam is the best airport to fly into Tanzania. It is also the best hub for people connecting to other parts of the country.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best airport to fly into Tanzania depends on your travel goals. Whether you’re dreaming of a Serengeti safari, a Kilimanjaro climb, a beach holiday in Zanzibar, or a visit to the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, there’s an airport that makes your journey easier.
Think about where you’re going, how you want to travel, and how quickly you want to get there. Once you decide, you can book your flights with confidence and get ready to enjoy one of Africa’s most beautiful countries.
FAQS
Which airport should I land in Tanzania?
The best airport to fly into Tanzania depends on where you’re going in Tanzania. Julius Nyerere International Airport is great for visiting the coast or catching flights to Zanzibar. Kilimanjaro International Airport is perfect if you’re heading for a northern safari or a Kilimanjaro climb. For trips focused on Zanzibar, Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is the main entry point.
Are Arusha and Kilimanjaro airports the same?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), with the code JRO, is located in Hai District in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Region. It mainly serves travelers heading to the nearby cities of Arusha and Moshi.
Where is the cheapest place to fly into Tanzania?
Which airport in Tanzania is the most affordable to fly into? Dar es Salaam is usually the cheapest option, with flight prices starting from around $842, making it the best airport to fly into Tanzania for budget travelers.
How much is a taxi from Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha?
Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) is about 58 km from Arusha, The ride takes around 52 minutes and typically costs between $17 and $21.
