Getting There & Away: Arusha

Getting to Arusha by Air

Kilimanjaro International Airport JRO

JRO is the main international airport serving northern Tanzania, including Arusha and Moshi. It handles the bulk of tourist arrivals for safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs, providing modern facilities.

JRO Details

Located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of Arusha city.
Serves major international airlines.
Facilities are modern and reasonably equipped for international travelers.

Arusha Airport ARK

ARK is a smaller, domestic airport located much closer to Arusha city, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. It mainly handles domestic flights.

ARK Details

Located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Arusha city center.
Handles domestic flights to Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and various regional safari airstrips.
Convenient for internal transfers within Tanzania.

International Flights

Major carriers to JRO include KLM (Amsterdam), Qatar Airways (Doha), Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Flydubai (Dubai), and Kenya Airways (Nairobi).

Flight Price Trends

Flight prices to JRO are highest during peak safari seasons (June-October, Jan-Feb) and holidays. Book international flights 6-12 months in advance for better fares. Prices drop during long rainy season (March-May) and shoulder seasons.

JRO Facilities

JRO provides duty-free shops, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks, cafes, and airport lounges. Facilities are modern and offer basic comforts.

Airport Transfer Details

JRO to Arusha Transfers

Shuttle Buses: Shared services (e.g., Impala, Riverside) cost USD 15-25 per person.
Taxis: Readily available, negotiate fare beforehand (approx. USD 40-60).
Pre-arranged Transfers: Many hotels/safari operators offer this; often the most convenient and reliable option.
Arrange your airport transfer in advance, especially for late-night arrivals.

ARK to Arusha Transfers

Arusha Airport (ARK) is much closer to the city.
Taxis: Main option, approximately USD 10-20.
Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pickups for ARK.
These options ensure easy access to city accommodations.

Land Border Crossings

Namanga Border Kenya

This is the busiest crossing point on the main road between Arusha and Nairobi. Numerous shuttle bus services connecting the two cities use it. You complete immigration and visa procedures at both Kenyan and Tanzanian border posts.

Taveta-Holili Border Kenya

This crossing, located between Moshi (near Arusha) and Voi in Kenya, presents a less busy option, sometimes used by travelers combining a visit to Amboseli National Park in Kenya with a Tanzanian safari.

General Border Tips

Have all documents (passport, visa, Yellow Fever certificate) readily accessible. Prepare for potential queues and thorough checks. Avoid carrying any plastic bags, as they are banned in Tanzania.

Land Transportation

Intercity Bus Travel

An extensive network of long-distance buses connects Arusha to major Tanzanian cities like Dar es Salaam, Moshi, and Mwanza. This offers a budget-friendly way to travel.

Bus Details

Routes include Dar es Salaam, Moshi, Babati, Mwanza, and other regional centers.
Major operators: Dar Express, Kilimanjaro Express, Scandinavian Express (often offer more comfortable journeys).
Arusha's main bus stand is a busy hub. Opt for "luxury" or "express" buses for better comfort.

Self-Driving Advice

Self-driving for safaris in national parks is generally not recommended for foreign tourists. Hiring a safari vehicle with an experienced driver/guide is the standard approach for park visits.

Considerations for Driving

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed in addition to your national license.
A 4x4 vehicle is essential if planning to enter national parks or traverse rough roads.
Road conditions within parks can be challenging, signage minimal, and vehicle issues in remote areas may leave you stranded.

Road Conditions

Road conditions vary significantly across Tanzania, influencing travel times and comfort.

Surface Types

Main Roads: Major roads between cities (e.g., Arusha to Dar es Salaam, Moshi) are generally paved but can have potholes.
Rural/Park Roads: Roads within national parks and rural areas are unpaved dirt tracks.
These unpaved roads can become extremely dusty in the dry season, reducing visibility.
They can become very muddy or impassable during the wet season.

Driving Safety

Driving standards vary. Awareness of surroundings and local practices is important.

Hazards & Precautions

Be aware of varying traffic rules and sudden stops.
Watch for pedestrians and livestock on the road.
Unmarked speed bumps are common.
Night driving is strongly discouraged due to poor lighting and unlit vehicles.

Departure Essentials

Departure taxes are typically included in your international flight ticket. You usually do not pay a separate cash departure fee at JRO.

Confirm departure tax inclusion with airline.
For international flights from JRO, arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
For domestic flights from ARK/JRO, arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure.

Check airline luggage allowances carefully, especially for souvenirs.
Be aware of restrictions on liquids in carry-on baggage.
Confirm airport transfer time with your hotel or safari operator the day before.

Departure Information

Smooth Departure Tip

Account for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours, when planning your departure to the airport.

Getting There & Away