The closest major cities to Kilimanjaro National Park are the city of Arusha and the town of Moshi. Depending on where you are traveling from, you can usually fly directly to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) via the Gulf (Qatar Airlines, Emirates) or via Europe (KLM).

Arusha (ARK) is a smaller airport that is serviced by internal flights from the national parks and nearby cities / beach-holiday destinations such as Zanzibar (ZNZ), Mombasa (MOI), and Dar es Salaam (DAR).

The Best Option: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

The most direct route is through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This airport is well-connected with major airlines, including KLM/Kenya Airways, Ethiopian, and Condor. Arriving at JRO offers convenience and eliminates the need for extensive travel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking efficiency.

From Dar es Salaam

• By Bus: Buses between Dar es Salaam and Moshi cost around $35 per person for an approximately 9-hour ride. Morning departures are available, and it’s an opportunity to enjoy the Tanzanian landscape.
• By Domestic Flight: Opt for a domestic flight, which takes about 1 hour and costs approximately $240 one way. This option combines convenience and speed.

From Mombasa

• By Flight: Flights to/from Mombasa are around $150, offering a seamless connection between beach paradise and mountain majesty.
• Important Consideration: Tanzania is not considered an “At Risk” country for yellow fever, so no vaccine is required unless you are coming from an “At Risk” country such as Kenya. If you are in Kenya for more than 12 hours, then a yellow fever vaccine will be required to enter Tanzania. Furthermore, the vaccine needs to be administered at least 10 days before entry into Tanzania.

From Zanzibar

• By International Flight: Look for international flights to/from Zanzibar, connecting with ease.
• By Domestic Flight: Domestic flights between Zanzibar (ZNZ) and Kilimanjaro (JRO) are available at around $240 one way per person, ensuring you bridge the gap between island tranquility and mountain splendor.

From Nairobi

• By Flight: Kenya Airways and Precision Airways offer regular connections, making booking a breeze.
• “The Riverside” Shuttle Bus: For an immersive experience, take the “Riverside” bus shuttle between Nairobi and Moshi. Priced at $40 per person each way, this 6-hour journey lets you witness the African landscape. The shuttle departs Nairobi at 8 am daily, with a stop at the Tanzanian border for immigration and customs checks. A visa is necessary for Tanzania entry. The shuttle also stops in Arusha for a switch and lunch, making it a journey full of discovery.
• Private Car Transfer: Tailor your journey with a private car accommodating 7-8 people or a mini-bus for 20-25 passengers. Decide on pickup time and place, and we handle the logistics. The cost for a 7-8 person car is approximately $500 one way, offering flexibility.
• Important Consideration: Tanzania is not considered an “At Risk” country for yellow fever, so no vaccine is required unless you are coming from an “At Risk” country such as Kenya. If you are in Kenya for more than 12 hours, then a yellow fever vaccine will be required to enter Tanzania. Furthermore, the vaccine needs to be administered at least 10 days before entry into Tanzania.

Final Tips and Considerations

• Keep in mind the visa costs if traveling to Kenya or Tanzania. These can vary based on your destination.
• Be aware of the requirement of a yellow fever vaccination to enter Tanzania if you are in Kenya for over 12 hours.
• Arriving at least a day before your trek or safari is recommended to acclimate to the new surroundings.