How to Get to Nyerere National Park: Flights From Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Road Routes

Nyerere National Park lies south-west of Dar es Salaam, so it is the most accessible of Tanzania's big wilderness areas and works well for short trips. Many travellers combine it with the coast.

Your choice between air and road depends on time, comfort and how you plan to link the park with other destinations.

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.

Flying to the Park

Scheduled light-aircraft services link Dar es Salaam with airstrips near the Rufiji and its lakes, and the flight itself is part of the experience, passing over river channels, forest and farmland. Your camp meets the plane and drives or boats you to camp, usually with game seen on the way. Flights from Zanzibar are also possible, which suits beach-and-bush trips; see a bush and beach safari for the idea. Read flying safaris in East Africa for how light aircraft work.

Driving From Dar es Salaam

The road route heads out of the city and then south through the coastal lowlands before the last stretch on gravel tracks into the park. It is a long day with traffic leaving Dar, so leave early. Four-wheel drive is needed for the final section, and in the wet months parts of the route can become difficult. Driving suits those travelling with a private vehicle who want to see rural Tanzania, but it uses time that most visitors prefer to spend on safari.

Luggage and Weight Limits

Light aircraft have strict baggage allowances, and the hold is small, so soft duffel bags are essential. Hard suitcases are usually refused. Many camps will store spare luggage in Dar es Salaam while you travel. Ask your operator for the exact limit when booking and see the packing list.

Combining Nyerere With Other Places

Nyerere pairs naturally with the northern circuit, Ruaha, Zanzibar or the south coast. A typical arrangement is a flight from the north to Dar es Salaam, then a connection into the park. Compare options in northern versus southern circuit and a southern Tanzania safari.

Arrival and Transfers

After landing on the airstrip you are met by your camp team, who load luggage into a safari vehicle or boat, depending on the camp's location. The transfer often becomes your first game drive, with elephants, giraffes and antelope seen beside the track. Allow time for a relaxed arrival, a briefing on safety and activities and a first look at the river. Departures work the same way in reverse, with a short drive to meet the aircraft.

Before You Travel

Check entry requirements in the visa guide and plan your timing with best time to visit Nyerere. Transfers on arrival are arranged by your camp or operator, and Dar es Salaam is the usual starting point; see the Tanzania travel guide for general planning.

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