Flights to Tanzania: Complete 2025 Guide | Best Airlines, Prices & Expert Booking Tips
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
Find the Best Flights to Tanzania – From $492 Round-Trip
Planning your dream Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach escape? Finding the right flights to Tanzania is your first step to an unforgettable East African adventure. Whether you’re flying into Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport, or directly to Zanzibar, this comprehensive guide from actual Tanzania safari operators will help you navigate airlines, prices, airports, and booking strategies to get the best deal for your journey.
With flights to Tanzania starting from just $492 for round-trip tickets and over 28 international airlines serving three major airports, you have more options than ever to reach this spectacular destination. Let’s explore everything you need to know to book your flights to Tanzania with confidence.
Quick Answer: Best Flights to Tanzania in 2025
Cheapest Flights: From $492 round-trip (prices vary by season and departure city)
Best Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Kenya Airways, Emirates
Main Airports:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Northern Safari Circuit
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar
Best Booking Time: 2-4 months in advance for international flights
Flight Duration: 16-25 hours from North America (with connections), 8-16 hours from Europe
Peak Season: June-October and December-February (book early, higher prices)
Best Value Months: April-May and November (shoulder season, lower fares
| Route | Airline | Approximate Price | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) → Dar es Salaam | Ethiopian Airlines | From $846-$925 | 19-22 hours |
| New York (JFK) → Kilimanjaro | Qatar Airways | From $900-$1,100 | 20-23 hours |
| Washington DC → Dar es Salaam | Turkish Airlines | From $914-$1,050 | 18-21 hours |
| Los Angeles → Kilimanjaro | Emirates | From $1,200-$1,500 | 22-26 hours |
| London → Dar es Salaam | Kenya Airways | From £600-£850 | 11-14 hours |
| Amsterdam → Kilimanjaro | KLM | From €800-€1,100 | 8-10 hours (direct) |
| Dubai → Zanzibar | Emirates | From $500-$700 | 4 hours (direct) |
Prices fluctuate based on season, booking timing, and availability. Check current prices with airlines or booking platforms.
Best Airlines to Tanzania: Complete Comparison
Top-Rated Airlines Flying to Tanzania
1. Ethiopian Airlines ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Africa’s largest and most awarded airline offers excellent connections through Addis Ababa hub.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Multiple daily flights to Dar es Salaam (DAR)
- Daily flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO)
- Flights to Zanzibar (ZNZ)
From North America: Connects via Addis Ababa from New York, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto
From Europe: Flies from London, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Brussels, Stockholm, and more
Average Price Range: $850-$1,200 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: Competitive prices, excellent service, convenient connections, modern fleet, voted “Best Airline in Africa”
Cons: Addis Ababa layovers can be 2-8 hours
Baggage Allowance: 2 checked bags (23kg each) in economy, generous for safari gear
2. Qatar Airways ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: World-class premium airline with outstanding service and modern aircraft.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Daily flights to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro via Doha
From North America: Extensive US/Canada network including New York, Washington DC, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Atlanta
From Europe: Flies from all major European cities
Average Price Range: $900-$1,400 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: Award-winning service, comfortable seats, excellent in-flight entertainment, premium lounges in Doha, consistent quality
Cons: Higher prices, longer routing via Middle East
Best For: Premium travel experience, Business Class travelers
3. Turkish Airlines ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Excellent value with direct flights from Istanbul to both major Tanzanian airports.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Daily flights to Dar es Salaam (DAR)
- Daily flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO)
- Seasonal flights to Zanzibar (ZNZ)
From North America: Flies from 13+ US cities including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Atlanta, Miami, Houston
From Europe: Extensive European network via Istanbul
Average Price Range: $900-$1,300 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: Competitive pricing, excellent Turkish hospitality, great food, modern fleet, convenient Istanbul hub with short layovers possible
Cons: Istanbul airport can be busy during peak times
Special Note: One of only two airlines with direct Europe-Tanzania flights
4. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Only airline with direct flights from Amsterdam to Tanzania, no African layovers needed.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Direct daily flights Amsterdam → Dar es Salaam
- Direct daily flights Amsterdam → Kilimanjaro
From North America: Connects via Amsterdam from numerous US cities (codeshare with Delta Airlines)
From Europe: Direct from Amsterdam, connects from all major European cities
Average Price Range: $950-$1,400 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: DIRECT flights (no African connections), reliable, comfortable, excellent safety record, efficient Amsterdam hub
Cons: Premium pricing, limited departure options outside Amsterdam
Best For: European travelers, those wanting direct routing, premium reliability
Travel Tip: Book Delta flights (codeshare) for easier connections from US cities
5. Kenya Airways ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Regional expert with excellent Tanzania connections via Nairobi hub.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Multiple daily flights Nairobi → Dar es Salaam
- Multiple daily flights Nairobi → Kilimanjaro
- Daily flights Nairobi → Zanzibar
From North America: Direct flights from New York JFK to Nairobi
From Europe: Flies from London, Amsterdam, Paris
Average Price Range: $850-$1,200 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: Often the fastest route from New York (under 15 hours total), frequent Tanzania connections, regional expertise, good for multi-country East Africa trips
Cons: Nairobi layovers required, occasional schedule changes
Best For: Combining Kenya and Tanzania safaris, fastest route from New York, East Africa specialists
6. Emirates ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Luxury airline with premium service and comfortable long-haul flights.
Routes to Tanzania:
- Daily flights to Dar es Salaam via Dubai
- Flights to Zanzibar via Dubai
From North America: Extensive US network via Dubai
From Europe & Asia: Connects worldwide through Dubai hub
Average Price Range: $1,100-$1,600 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: Luxurious experience, excellent entertainment, premium cabins, spacious seating, outstanding service
Cons: Higher prices, longer routing via Middle East
Best For: Premium travelers, Business/First Class seekers, those valuing comfort over price
7. Lufthansa ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Reliable German carrier with good European connections.
Routes to Tanzania: Connects via Frankfurt to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro
Average Price Range: $995-$1,400 (round-trip from USA)
Pros: German reliability, good service, modern aircraft
8. Air France ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Recommend: Recently resumed Tanzania flights after decades, connecting via Paris.
Routes to Tanzania: Three weekly flights Paris → Dar es Salaam (resumed 2024)
Average Price Range: $1,012+ (round-trip from USA)
Pros: French hospitality, Paris hub convenience
Regional & African Airlines
RwandAir: Connects via Kigali (good for Rwanda-Tanzania combos)
South African Airways: Connects via Johannesburg (good for southern Africa tours)
Air Tanzania: National carrier with regional connections and domestic flights
Tanzania’s Three International Airports: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing the correct airport can save you hours of driving and significantly impact your safari experience. Here’s our insider guide based on thousands of guest arrivals.
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
IATA Code: DAR
Location: 12 km from Dar es Salaam city center
Annual Passengers: 2.5+ million
Best For:
- Southern Safari Circuit (Nyerere National Park, Ruaha, Mikumi)
- Dar es Salaam city visits
- Business travelers
- Connecting to Zanzibar (30-minute flight or ferry)
- Mafia Island diving trips
- Multi-stop itineraries
Airlines Serving: All major international carriers, including Ethiopian, Qatar, Emirates, KLM, Turkish, Kenya Airways, Air France,and Lufthansa
Facilities:
- Three modern terminals (Terminal 3 opened in 2019)
- Duty-free shopping
- Restaurants and cafés
- VIP/Business lounges
- Free WiFi
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Car rental services
- Hotels nearby
Ground Transportation:
- Taxis: Available 24/7 (agree on price: $15-25 to the city center)
- Uber/Bolt: Widely available
- Hotel shuttles: Most hotels offer pickup
- Domestic flights: Connect to all major parks
Distance to Popular Destinations:
- Dar es Salaam city: 20 minutes
- Nyerere National Park: 4-5 hours drive or 30-minute flight
- Mikumi National Park: 4-5 hours drive
- Ruaha National Park: 1-hour flight
- Zanzibar: 30-minute flight or 2-hour ferry
Pro Tip: DAR is Tanzania’s busiest airport. Arrive 3 hours early for international departures. Terminal 3 is exclusively for international flights with modern amenities.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Arusha Region
IATA Code: JRO
Location: Between Arusha (46 km) and Moshi (42 km)
Gateway to: Northern Safari Circuit
Best For:
- Northern Safari Circuit safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara)
- Mount Kilimanjaro climbs
- Arusha-based itineraries
- Most first-time Tanzania safari visitors
- Wildlife photography tours
Why Choose JRO: This is THE airport for classic Tanzania safaris. If your itinerary includes Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Kilimanjaro climbing, fly here.
Airlines Serving: KLM (direct from Amsterdam), Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Emirates, plus regional carriers
Facilities:
- Modern international terminal
- Basic shopping and dining
- Currency exchange
- Car rental desks
- Tour operator meetup area
- Free WiFi
- Small but efficient
Ground Transportation:
- Pre-arranged safari transfers (recommended)
- Private taxis: $40-60 to Arusha, $30-50 to Moshi
- Shuttle buses available
- Most safari operators include airport pickup
Distance to Key Destinations:
- Arusha town: 46 km (45 minutes-1 hour)
- Moshi town: 42 km (40-50 minutes)
- Arusha National Park: 1 hour
- Tarangire National Park: 2-2.5 hours
- Lake Manyara: 2.5 hours
- Ngorongoro Crater: 3-3.5 hours
- Serengeti (Seronera): 4-5 hours drive or 1-hour flight
Pro Tip: The drive from JRO to Serengeti is 5-6 hours. Consider flying into JRO, doing your safari, then taking a light aircraft from Serengeti to Zanzibar—this saves a long drive back.
Jairos Adventure Insight: “95% of our Northern Circuit safari clients fly into Kilimanjaro Airport. We meet guests at arrivals and start safari adventures the same day or next morning after rest. It’s perfectly positioned.”
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar
IATA Code: ZNZ
Location: 5 km south of Stone Town
Gateway to: Zanzibar Archipelago
Best For:
- Beach holidays on Zanzibar Island
- Stone Town cultural visits
- Spice tours
- Safari + beach combinations (fly out after mainland safari)
- Honeymoons
- Diving and snorkeling trips
- Pemba Island connections
Airlines Serving: International: Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Oman Air
Regional: Multiple daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Serengeti
Facilities:
- Recently upgraded international terminal
- Compact but modern
- Basic shopping and dining
- Currency exchange
- Car rental
- Beach resort transfers
Ground Transportation:
- Pre-arranged resort transfers (recommended)
- Taxis: $10-15 to Stone Town, $30-60 to beach resorts
- Dalla dallas (local minibuses): Very cheap but crowded
- Hotel pickups common
Distance to Destinations:
- Stone Town: 15-20 minutes
- Nungwi (north beaches): 1-1.5 hours
- Paje/Jambiani (east coast): 1-1.5 hours
- Kizimkazi (south): 1 hour
Popular Routing: Many travelers do: Kilimanjaro arrival → Northern Safari → Fly Serengeti to Zanzibar → Depart Zanzibar
Multi-City Booking Tip: Book “multi-city” tickets: Arrive JRO, Depart ZNZ. This is usually only slightly more expensive than round-trip and saves time/money on ground transportation.
How to Find Cheap Flights to Tanzania: Expert Booking Strategies
1. Book 2-4 Months in Advance
Sweet Spot: 60-120 days before departure
Why: Airlines release seats at various price points. Booking too early (6+ months) doesn’t always guarantee savings, while last-minute (under 30 days) is usually expensive except rare flash sales.
Our Data: Clients who book 90 days ahead save average 25-35% compared to those booking 2 weeks out.
2. Fly During Shoulder Season
Best Value Periods:
- April-May: Post long-rains, green season, fantastic deals
- November: Short rains, excellent wildlife viewing, 20-30% cheaper flights
Peak Season to Avoid (If Budget-Conscious):
- June-October: Dry season, high demand
- December-February: Holiday season, premium prices
Exception: Wildlife is spectacular year-round. If seeing the Great Migration is priority, pay premium for July-September.
3. Compare Multiple Booking Platforms
Recommended Search Tools:
- Google Flights: Best for overview, price tracking, date flexibility
- Skyscanner: Excellent “search everywhere” and monthly view
- KAYAK: Good price alerts and multi-site comparison
- Momondo: Often finds hidden deals
- Airline Direct: Sometimes cheaper than aggregators, better customer service
Pro Strategy: Search on aggregators to compare, then book direct with airline for easier changes/support.
4. Be Flexible with Dates
Day of Week Strategy:
- Cheapest Days: Tuesday, Wednesday departures
- Most Expensive: Friday, Sunday departures
- Savings: Can be $100-300 difference
Use Calendar View: Google Flights and Skyscanner show prices across entire months. Shifting dates by 2-3 days can yield significant savings.
5. Consider Nearby Departure Airports
If you live between major airports:
- New York: Try JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia
- San Francisco Bay: Try SFO, Oakland, San Jose
- Washington: Try Dulles, BWI, Reagan
Sometimes smaller airports have better deals through different airline partnerships.
6. Set Price Alerts
Most flight search engines let you track routes:
- Get notified when prices drop
- Historical data shows if current price is good deal
- Act fast when alerts trigger
7. Consider Positioning Flights
Sometimes cheaper to:
- Fly domestically to major hub (NYC, Chicago, Atlanta)
- Then take international flight to Tanzania
- Total cost can be less than direct routing from small city
Example: Seattle → New York → Dar es Salaam might be cheaper than Seattle → Middle East hub → Dar es Salaam
8. Join Airline Loyalty Programs
Benefits:
- Earn miles for free flights
- Priority booking during sales
- Potential upgrades
- Bonus mile promotions
Best Programs for Tanzania:
- SkyTeam Alliance: Delta/KLM/Air France/Kenya Airways
- Star Alliance: Lufthansa/Turkish/Ethiopian/United
- Oneworld: Qatar Airways/British Airways/American
9. Check Airline Flash Sales
Where to Find:
- Airline email newsletters (subscribe to Ethiopian, Turkish, Qatar)
- Social media (Twitter, Facebook)
- Deal websites (Secret Flying, The Flight Deal, Jack’s Flight Club)
Peak Sale Periods:
- Black Friday / Cyber Monday
- January (post-holiday slump)
- Mid-April (filling summer seats)
10. Bundle Flight + Hotel
Online travel agencies often offer packages:
- Can save 10-20% bundling flights with hotels
- Check Expedia, Booking.com, Travelocity packages
- Compare package price vs. separate booking
Or Better: Contact safari operators like Jairos Adventure for complete safari packages including flights—we have negotiated rates.
Best Time to Book Flights to Tanzania
Ideal Booking Windows
For Summer Travel (June-August):
- Book by February-March
- Peak demand, prices rise significantly closer to departure
For Fall Travel (September-November):
- Book by June-July
- Great wildlife viewing, moderate prices
For Winter/Spring Travel (December-April):
- Book by September-October for December holidays
- Book by January-February for April-May (best deals)
Price Trends by Month
Most Expensive Months to Fly:
- December: Holiday season, premium prices (avoid Dec 20-Jan 5 for best rates)
- July-August: Peak safari season, school holidays
- February: Less expensive than Dec/Jan but still popular
Cheapest Months to Fly:
- April: Long rains, absolute lowest prices
- May: Tail of rains, excellent value
- November: Short rains, still great wildlife
Average Price Differences:
- Peak season (July): Average $1,400-$1,800 round-trip from USA
- Shoulder season (Nov): Average $950-$1,200 round-trip from USA
- Low season (April-May): Average $800-$1,000 round-trip from USA
Savings: Flying in April vs. July can save $400-800 per person
Popular Flight Routes to Tanzania
From North America
United States
New York (JFK/Newark) → Tanzania
- Airlines: Ethiopian (via ADD), Qatar (via DOH), Turkish (via IST), Kenya Airways (via NBO)
- Flight Time: 16-22 hours total
- Typical Price: $850-$1,200
- Best Route: Kenya Airways direct JFK-NBO, then short hop to JRO (fastest – under 15 hours total)
Washington DC (Dulles) → Tanzania
- Airlines: Ethiopian, Qatar, Turkish, United/Lufthansa
- Flight Time: 17-21 hours
- Typical Price: $900-$1,200
Chicago (O’Hare) → Tanzania
- Airlines: Ethiopian, Qatar, Turkish, United/Lufthansa
- Flight Time: 18-23 hours
- Typical Price: $950-$1,300
Los Angeles/San Francisco → Tanzania
- Airlines: Ethiopian, Qatar, Emirates, Turkish
- Flight Time: 22-27 hours
- Typical Price: $1,100-$1,600
Houston → Tanzania
- Airlines: Qatar, KLM, Turkish
- Flight Time: 20-24 hours
- Typical Price: $1,000-$1,400
Atlanta → Tanzania
- Airlines: KLM (via AMS), Qatar, Turkish, Ethiopian
- Flight Time: 17-22 hours
- Typical Price: $950-$1,350
Canada
Toronto → Tanzania
- Airlines: Ethiopian, Turkish, KLM, Qatar
- Flight Time: 18-24 hours
- Typical Price: CAD $1,200-$1,800
From Europe
London → Tanzania
- Airlines: Kenya Airways (via NBO), Turkish (via IST), Ethiopian (via ADD), Qatar (via DOH)
- Flight Time: 11-16 hours
- Typical Price: £600-£950
- Note: No direct flights from UK
Amsterdam → Tanzania
- Airlines: KLM (DIRECT daily), Turkish, Ethiopian
- Flight Time: 8-10 hours direct
- Typical Price: €800-€1,200
- Best For: European travelers – only direct option
Istanbul → Tanzania
- Airlines: Turkish Airlines (DIRECT daily)
- Flight Time: 7-8 hours direct
- Typical Price: Variable
- Note: Only direct from Istanbul besides Amsterdam
Paris → Tanzania
- Airlines: Air France (recently resumed), KLM, Turkish, Ethiopian
- Flight Time: 11-14 hours
- Typical Price: €850-€1,250
Frankfurt/Munich/Berlin → Tanzania
- Airlines: Lufthansa, Turkish, Ethiopian, Qatar
- Flight Time: 12-16 hours
- Typical Price: €900-€1,300
Other European Cities: Brussels, Zurich, Rome, Madrid all connect via Amsterdam, Istanbul, Addis Ababa, or Doha
From Middle East & Asia
Dubai → Tanzania
- Airlines: Emirates, Flydubai
- Flight Time: 4-5 hours
- Typical Price: $400-$700
Doha → Tanzania
- Airlines: Qatar Airways
- Flight Time: 5-6 hours
Mumbai/Delhi → Tanzania
- Airlines: Kenya Airways, Ethiopian, Qatar
- Flight Time: 8-12 hours
From Africa
Johannesburg → Tanzania
- Airlines: South African Airways, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania
- Flight Time: 4-5 hours
- Typical Price: $300-$500
Nairobi → Tanzania
- Airlines: Kenya Airways, Precision Air, Air Tanzania (multiple daily)
- Flight Time: 1-2 hours
- Typical Price: $150-$300
- Note: Easiest East Africa multi-country connections
Tanzania Visa & Entry Requirements for Flights
Visa Requirements (As of December 2025)
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Tanzania has phased out visa-on-arrival. All travelers MUST obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before departure.
eVisa Application Process
1. Apply Online: https://visa.immigration.go.tz
2. Processing Time: 10 business days minimum (apply 2+ weeks before travel)
3. Required Documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond travel dates)
- Passport-sized digital photo
- Flight itinerary/confirmation
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter
- Credit/debit card for payment
4. Visa Fees:
- Single Entry Tourist Visa: $50 USD (90 days validity)
- Multiple Entry Visa: $100 USD (12 months validity, for frequent visitors)
- Business Visa: $250 USD (90 days)
- US Citizens: Must apply for Multiple Entry Visa ($100) even for tourism
5. Entry Points: eVisa valid at all international airports (JRO, DAR, ZNZ) and approved land borders
East Africa Tourist Visa
For Multi-Country Travel: Kenya + Tanzania + Uganda
Cost: $100 USD
Validity: 90 days, multiple entries across all three countries
Best For: Combining Kenya safari with Tanzania, or adding Uganda gorilla trekking
Apply: Through any of the three countries’ eVisa portals
Countries NOT Requiring Visa
Citizens of these regions enter visa-free:
- East African Community (EAC) members
- SADC members (except Comoros)
- Most Commonwealth countries (exceptions: UK, Canada, India, Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand – require visa)
Full list: Check official immigration website for your nationality
Passport Requirements
- Validity: Minimum 6 months beyond intended departure date
- Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages for stamps
- Condition: Must be in good condition (no water damage, torn pages)
Health Requirements
Yellow Fever Certificate:
- Required IF arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic country
- Endemic Countries Include: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, DRC, and many other African nations
- Not Required: If flying directly from USA, Europe, or Asia
COVID-19: Requirements change frequently, check current Tanzania travel advisory
Proof of Onward Travel
Immigration may request:
- Return flight ticket
- Onward ticket to next destination
- Proof of sufficient funds
Tip: Have electronic or printed copy of your return flight confirmation easily accessible
Customs Declarations
Prohibited Items:
- Illegal drugs
- Firearms without permits
- Certain agricultural products
- Counterfeit goods
Restricted Items:
- Currency over $10,000 USD must be declared
- Wildlife products require permits
- Drones may require permits
Flight Duration to Tanzania
From Major Cities
| Departure City | Total Flight Time | Connections |
|---|---|---|
| North America | ||
| New York | 16-22 hours | 1-2 stops |
| Los Angeles | 22-27 hours | 2 stops |
| Chicago | 18-23 hours | 1-2 stops |
| Washington DC | 17-21 hours | 1-2 stops |
| Toronto | 18-24 hours | 1-2 stops |
| Europe | ||
| Amsterdam | 8-10 hours | Direct available |
| London | 11-16 hours | 1 stop |
| Istanbul | 7-8 hours | Direct available |
| Paris | 11-14 hours | 1 stop |
| Frankfurt | 12-16 hours | 1 stop |
| Middle East | ||
| Dubai | 4-5 hours | Direct |
| Doha | 5-6 hours | Direct |
| Abu Dhabi | 4-5 hours | Direct |
| Africa | ||
| Johannesburg | 4-5 hours | Direct |
| Nairobi | 1-2 hours | Direct |
| Addis Ababa | 2-3 hours | Direct |
Note: “Direct” means non-stop. “1 stop” means one connection. Total time includes layovers.
Baggage Allowance for Tanzania Flights
International Flight Baggage
Standard Economy Class:
- Checked Bags: 1-2 bags (23 kg/50 lbs each)
- Carry-On: 1 bag (7-10 kg) + personal item
- Varies by airline – always check specific carrier
Premium Economy/Business Class:
- Checked Bags: 2-3 bags (32 kg/70 lbs each)
- Carry-On: Enhanced allowance
Important for Safari Travelers
Domestic Flight Restrictions: Most domestic/light aircraft flights within Tanzania have strict limits:
- Soft-sided bags only (no hard-shell suitcases)
- Maximum weight: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person including carry-on
- Dimensions: Usually 25 cm x 30 cm x 60 cm
Planning Tip:
- Use soft duffel bags, not rigid suitcases
- Pack light for safari circuit
- Leave excess luggage with your tour operator or hotel in Arusha
Safari Packing Essentials:
- Neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive)
- Binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Light layers (mornings are cool)
- Good walking shoes
Weight-Saving Tip: Tour operators provide laundry service, so pack less clothing and rewear.
In-Flight Experience: What to Expect
Flight Classes Explained
Economy Class ($850-$1,300 average)
- Seat Pitch: 31-34 inches
- Entertainment: Personal screens (most airlines)
- Meals: 2-3 meals on long-haul (breakfast, dinner, sometimes snack)
- Service: Standard
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers
Premium Economy ($1,400-$2,000 average)
- Seat Pitch: 38-42 inches
- Extra Recline: More legroom and comfort
- Meals: Enhanced meal service
- Priority: Boarding, baggage handling
- Best For: Worth it for 16+ hour journeys
Business Class ($3,000-$6,000+ average)
- Seats: Lie-flat beds
- Lounge Access: Pre-departure premium lounges
- Meals: Multi-course gourmet dining
- Service: Personalized, attentive
- Best For: Premium experience, using miles/points, special occasions
Upgrade Tips:
- Check upgrade availability at online check-in (24 hours before)
- Use airline miles/points for better value
- Bid for upgrades (some airlines offer)
- Empty business seats sometimes offered at gate
Long-Haul Flight Survival Tips
Combating Jet Lag:
- Adjust sleep schedule 2-3 days before departure
- Stay hydrated (drink water every hour)
- Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine
- Walk around cabin every 2 hours
- Sleep on the plane during Tanzania nighttime
- Take melatonin if approved by doctor
Comfort Essentials:
- Neck pillow
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Compression socks (circulation)
- Moisturizer (cabin air is dry)
- Lip balm
- Change of clothes in carry-on
- Entertainment (book, tablet with downloads)
Health Tips:
- Take malaria prophylaxis as prescribed
- Stay hydrated throughout flight
- Move regularly to prevent DVT
- Wash hands frequently
Connecting to Your Safari After Landing
Airport Pickup Options
1. Pre-Arranged Tour Operator Transfer (RECOMMENDED)
- Cost: Usually included in safari packages
- Benefits: Meet and greet at arrivals, no haggling, safe, reliable, immediate start to safari
- Jairos Adventure: We meet all our clients at the airport with name board, handle luggage, provide bottled water, begin safari same day or transfer to hotel
2. Hotel Shuttle
- Cost: Often free or nominal charge
- Benefits: Direct to accommodation
- Booking: Arrange in advance with hotel
3. Private Taxi
- Cost: $40-60 (J