Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Route Guide: Flights, Roads, Ferries and Transfers

This page explains how the pieces fit together. Most routes start at Kilimanjaro or Arusha, run by road and air through the northern parks, then cross water to the island.

We do not quote flight durations, fares or timetables because they change, so always check current schedules with your operator when planning.

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.

Arriving in Tanzania

International flights usually land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, and some itineraries use Dar es Salaam instead. Kilimanjaro is the more convenient entry for the northern parks, with transfers to Arusha taking a short drive. Arrive a day early if possible, particularly on long-haul flights, so you start the safari refreshed.

Moving Between Parks by Road

Within the northern circuit, vehicles travel on a mix of paved and unpaved roads. Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro are connected by relatively straightforward routes, while the road to the Serengeti is longer and passes through the Ngorongoro highlands. You will see more of the landscape and pass Maasai settlements, but a day of driving is a full day. See getting to the Serengeti and getting to Ngorongoro.

Flying to Zanzibar

The fastest link is a scheduled flight from an airstrip in the Serengeti or from Arusha to Zanzibar, often with a connection. Services vary by season and day, so ask your operator which options suit your dates. Luggage limits on light aircraft are strict, usually requiring soft bags, and an oversized hard suitcase may be refused. Read flying safaris for more on how air travel works.

Ferries and the Dar es Salaam Route

Ferries run between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar for travellers who prefer water. This option suits itineraries that finish in the south or that include Dar es Salaam, but it adds a transfer at each end and depends on sea conditions. Most visitors coming from the northern parks fly rather than use the ferry.

Arriving on Zanzibar

Zanzibar airport is a short drive from Stone Town and its hotels. Transfers to the north and east coasts take longer, and in some areas you will drive on rough sections. Ask your lodge to arrange an airport pick-up and confirm the drive time before you book. Check the beaches by region page when choosing where to stay.

Planning Buffers and Weather

Domestic flights in East Africa are generally reliable, but small aircraft depend on weather and runway conditions, and schedules can change at short notice. Avoid placing a tight international departure on the same day as a safari flight. Build one spare night near your departure airport, and share your full itinerary with your operator so that they can monitor changes. If you are driving, leave early in the day to avoid afternoon rain and dust. Keep snacks, water and a charged phone with you on transfers, and carry a printed copy of important confirmations.

Documents and Practical Checks

Carry your passport for domestic flights, keep a copy of your itinerary and confirm baggage allowances before you pack. Visa rules are explained in the practical guide and in the East Africa visa guide. Keep valuables in hand luggage, and allow generous connection times between flights.

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