Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha: Your First Transfer on a Tanzania Safari

Most international visitors to northern Tanzania land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, and the first stop is usually Arusha, the safari hub. The airport is small, the road is direct and the transfer is one of the simpler parts of a Tanzania trip.

This guide explains what to expect on arrival and how to make the first day comfortable.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

On Arrival at the Airport

After landing, you pass through immigration and customs and collect your luggage, and the formalities can take some time when several flights arrive together. Check the official guidance on visas before travelling, and see our East Africa visa guide for general background. If you require a visa, follow the official procedure.

Once through, your driver should be waiting outside arrivals holding a sign with your name. If you cannot see them, stay calm and use the contact number provided by your operator rather than accepting offers from unknown taxi drivers.

The Road to Arusha

The road to Arusha is a sealed highway that passes villages, farmland and views of the surrounding mountains on a clear day. On many mornings and evenings you may see Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru in the distance, though cloud often hides them. Traffic is usually manageable, though it can slow near the towns.

Safari vehicles are comfortable and many operators offer drinking water on the transfer. This is a good moment to ask the driver-guide about the trip ahead and to confirm the schedule for the coming day.

Late Arrivals and Early Departures

Many flights arrive at night, so you may reach Arusha late. Most lodges and hotels around town are used to late check-ins, but you should tell your operator your flight number so they can track delays. For departures, allow plenty of time for the road and the airport, particularly if you have an early international flight.

Some travellers choose to stay near the airport for convenience on the first or last night, which reduces the need for a late drive. Your operator can advise on options that suit your schedule.

Arusha as a Base

Arusha is a busy town with markets, cafes, craft shops and the main northern safari operators. It sits near Mount Meru and the entrance to Arusha National Park, and it is the starting point for Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.

Spend a night here to rest after a long flight, or move straight on to a lodge outside town. See the Arusha safari gateway guide for ideas, and Arusha National Park how to get there if you plan a short first excursion.

Going Straight to Moshi or the Mountain

If you plan to climb Kilimanjaro, you may head to Moshi rather than Arusha. The airport is very close to Moshi, and many climbing operators use it as the starting base. For details on the mountain gates and the start of the climb, see Moshi to the Kilimanjaro gates.

Some itineraries combine a mountain climb with a safari, so ask your operator how the transfers will work. The Kilimanjaro how to get there guide gives further information.

How It Fits a Northern Safari

A typical northern circuit begins in Arusha and continues to Tarangire or Lake Manyara, then Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. The transfer from the airport is the first leg, and starting rested gives you the best experience on the first game drive.

Our northern circuit safari guide describes the typical route, and Arusha to Tarangire explains the first road leg for many itineraries.

Practical Tips

Keep your passport and arrival documents in hand luggage. Carry some local currency or ask your operator what to expect, and avoid changing money with unofficial dealers. Charge your phone before you land and bring a light layer, because evenings can be cool.

Our East Africa packing list gives advice on what to bring, and Tanzania money guide explains how cards, cash and tipping work.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team