Your complete international flight guide: Routes from every continent, airline comparisons, and everything you need to reach Kilimanjaro.
Tanzania has two main international airports, but for climbing Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is your best choice. It's located just 45 minutes from Arusha, the starting point for all Kilimanjaro expeditions.
Flying into JRO saves you significant time and effort compared to Dar es Salaam. The airport is perfectly positioned between Arusha and Moshi, and your transfer to the hotel is included in your expedition package. You'll be at your hotel within an hour of landing.
No matter where you're flying from, there are excellent connections to Kilimanjaro. Here's what to expect from different parts of the world:
Europeans have the best connections with direct and one-stop flights. Most routes go via major European or Middle Eastern hubs.
Most North American routes connect through European or Middle Eastern hubs. Book early for the best connections and prices.
Middle Eastern and African hubs offer the best connections from Australia and Asia. Many routes include comfortable layovers.
Want to save $200-300 on your flight? Consider flying to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO) and taking a shuttle bus to Arusha. This option works from any continent and is popular among budget-conscious travelers.
The Impala Shuttles runs daily between Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta Airport and Arusha, taking approximately 5 hours. The shuttle is comfortable, air-conditioned, and costs around $70 per return trip (pay in cash at the counter).
Important: You'll need a Kenya transit visa (eVisa) even if you're just passing through. Apply online at etakenya.go.ke before your trip. The visa costs around $50 and is processed within 2-3 days.
Advantages: Significantly cheaper (save $200-300), more flight options,
scenic drive through East Africa
Disadvantages: Requires Kenya visa, 5-hour bus journey, early morning
shuttle departure (8:15 AM), longer total travel time
All visitors to Tanzania need a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months) and a visa.
You can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The cost is $50 for most nationalities, $100 for USA passport holders (must be paid in cash USD).
Have a passport photo and exact cash ready. The process takes 20-30 minutes depending on queue length. Check current fees for your nationality before traveling.
Apply for an eVisa online in advance at visa.immigration.go.tz. This saves time at the airport and guarantees entry.
The visa costs $50, $100 for USA passport holders, and is processed within 5-10 business days. Valid for 90 days from entry. You'll need a digital passport photo and credit card for online payment.
Book 3-6 months in advance for the best prices and availability. Flight prices to Tanzania can vary significantly depending on season and demand.
Use flight comparison tools to find the best deals:
Checked Luggage: Most airlines allow 20-23kg. Pack your main expedition backpack (max 15kg for porters) in your checked bag along with clothing and non-essential items.
Carry-On Luggage: Always pack essentials in your hand luggage in case your checked bag is delayed:
After landing, follow signs to "Immigration". Here you'll obtain your visa (or show your eVisa) and receive an entry stamp in your passport.
Next, collect your luggage at baggage claim and proceed through customs. At the arrivals exit, your hotel driver will be waiting with a sign showing "Expedition Kilimanjaro" or your name.
The drive to Arusha takes 45-60 minutes. You'll be dropped off directly at your hotel where you can check in, rest, and prepare for your adventure.
Your round-trip airport transfer (Kilimanjaro Airport ↔ Arusha hotel) is included in your expedition package. No need to arrange anything yourself - just share your flight details with us in advance so we can schedule your pickup.
Plan to arrive in Tanzania at least 2 days before your climb starts. This gives you time to acclimatize, rest from jet lag, and handle any unexpected delays.
Our standard expedition includes 2 nights in Arusha before the climb, which is perfect for adjustment and final preparations.
Inform us immediately if your flight is delayed. Minor delays (up to 12 hours) usually don't affect your expedition schedule due to the buffer days.
For longer delays, we can potentially shift your expedition start by one day, depending on availability. This is why it's crucial to share your flight details with us as soon as you book.
Follow these steps for a smooth booking experience:
Always confirm your expedition availability BEFORE booking flights! Flight tickets are usually non-refundable, so make sure your climb dates are secured first. I'll confirm availability within 24 hours of your inquiry.
Since you're traveling all this way to Tanzania, why not add a safari? Experience the incredible wildlife of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire National Park before or after your Kilimanjaro expedition.
Explore Safari OptionsI'm here to help you plan the perfect journey to Kilimanjaro. Whether you need advice on flight routes, visa requirements, or booking logistics, don't hesitate to reach out.