Yes, The ECOWAS citizens ( Economic Community of West African States ) can come to Tanzania using an ECOWAS passport but a visa is still required, as Tanzania is not an ECOWAS member and does not grant visa-free entry based on ECOWAS citizenship. The data provided below is provided in sufficiently detailed form that may assist you to learn admission conditions, visa procedure, and other useful travelling recommendations.
Traveling to Tanzania with an ECOWAS Passport
Visa Requirement
Most ECOWAS nationals are eligible for a Visa on Arrival or may apply for an eVisa prior to travel. This includes travelers from Nigeria, Ghana, Cote D'Ivoire, Senegal, and others. Unlike travel within ECOWAS member states, ECOWAS citizens do not receive visa-free entry into Tanzania.
Most ECOWAS passport holders are eligible for a Visa on Arrival in Tanzania; only travelers from countries listed under Tanzania’s 'Referral Visa' category (e.g., Afghanistan, Iran, etc.) must apply at a Tanzanian diplomatic mission in advance. It is important to verify if your specific country is listed under the eligible countries for VoA on the Tanzania Immigration website.
You have three options:
Visa on Arrival (VoA):
Several ECOWAS countries are eligible to receive a visa on arrival at the major ports of entry in Tanzania, which include:
Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
Select land border posts (e.g., Namanga, Holili)
Tanzania eVisa (Recommended):
You can also get a visa online through the official Tanzania Immigration services website (https://tanzaniaimmigration.org/). This is a quicker and more secure way to get your visa, especially during peak travel periods when queues for Visa on Arrival can be long, especially during peak travel seasons, when Visa on Arrival queues at airports can be long
Embassy or Consulate Visa:
You can also obtain a visa in one of the TZ embassies or consulates in your home country prior to travel.
Documents Required
No matter which visa mechanism is used, you are expected to possess the following:
A valid ECOWAS passport (having a validity of 6 months)
Visa fees in USD
Airline or forwarding ticket
Accommodation or invitation letter
Enough money to live on during your stay
A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited (over 12 hours), through a country where yellow fever risk exists.
ECOWAS Passport Validity
Your passport is accepted in the ECOWAS zone as a means of travelling internationally under the name ECOWAS passport. Although it aids land travel within West Africa, when going to other states outside the ECOWAS, such as Tanzania, you will be accorded the same status as any ordinary international. This means that you must meet visa and immigration requirements
Key Travel Tips for ECOWAS Passport Holders
Confirms visa requirements: Most residents of ECOWAS are either allowed visa on arrival or eVisa, but make sure to check Tanzania Immigration Department or contact your local Tanzanian consulate before your trip.
Yellow Fever Certificate: In case you are travelling through a country where there are chances of the yellow fever to be spread then you will be required to produce evidence of the yellow fever vaccination. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required only if the traveler is arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country or has transited for more than 12 hours through one.
Follow Entry Rules: Make sure that the documents are in order, more so when you want a visa upon arrival. The Tanzanian entry officers can reject the visas due to missing or incomplete paper work.
Currency: The US dollars are strongly embraced in payment of visa charges and in cases, the other currencies are discouraged.
Although the ECOWAS passport is valid for international travel, it does not provide visa-free access to Tanzania. Before your trip, you will have to obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa in advance. Taking time to make planning will make the entry to this East African treasure easy and stress-free.
Tanzania is not only famous for its magnificent wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro, but it is also known because of its great cultural heritage through colorful festivals. Whether it is music, film, food or ancient traditions, the festivals happening in Tanzania can give the traveler an in-depth look at the soul of the country. Here are the top 5 festivals in Tanzania that you should not miss.
1. Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)
The Zanzibar International Film Festival, the largest cultural event in East Africa, is celebrated in Stone Town, Zanzibar on a yearly basis. Also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries, ZIFF features a wide variety of films from Africa, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean region, and beyond
The festival takes nine days, contains screenings, panel discussions, as well as music concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops. It is not only a paradise of a film lover; it is a cultural festival that takes place and draws international filmmakers, tourists, and local creatives. It is organized annually in July and provides a mix of Swahili culture, cinema, and international narrating.
2. Sauti za Busara
Sauti za Busara, translated Sound of Wisdom, is a four-day music festival that is also hosted in Stone Town, Zanzibar, every February. The festival is famous in promoting African music as live music is performed by talented musicians across the continent.
It is staged in the ancient Old Fort and involves a street parade, traditional dancers and jam sessions. The most remarkable thing about this festival is that it is based on the live music of Africa (with no playback allowed, encouraging artists to express their culture authentically through live music). Both tourists and locals can unite and enjoy this dance under the stars with the background African rhythms.
3. Bagamoyo Arts Festival
The Bagamoyo Arts Festival is held in October in the coastal town of Bagamoyo, which has historical significance in the East African slave trade and rich Swahili culture. The Bagamoyo College of Arts hosts the festival and attracts performers both in Tanzania and other regions of the world.
Other activities involve live music, acrobatics, dance, drama, visual arts and traditional story telling. It is a bright festival in which the ancient sea ways mix with the contemporary art. It is also educational and enjoyable since scholars are in a position to visit historical places as they visit the performance sites.
4. Nane Nane Agricultural Festival
Nane Nane, meaning “eight eight” in Swahili, is celebrated every year on August 8th. Today is the National Farmers Day in Tanzania in honor of the agricultural contribution to the economy of the country.
The festival which is hosted in different regions in the country (the big events being in Morogoro, Mbeya, and Dodoma) brings together innovations in farming, livestock keeping and agribusiness. While it is not a cultural or artistic festival in the traditional sense, Nane Nane remains one of Tanzania’s most significant national events, celebrating the backbone of its economy—agriculture.
5. Mwaka Kogwa Festival
Mwaka Kogwa is a traditional four day New Year festival of the town of Makunduchi in the southern part of Zanzibar. It is held in late July and has a very strong foundation in the Persian Shirazi traditions.
The festival features symbolic rituals, such as mock battles among men using banana stalks to resolve historical feuds and then accompanied by ancestral dances and feeding. Women dress in bright colored kanzu dresses and join in singing songs of love, peace, and community. Mwaka Kogwa is a spiritual and a celebratory event, where it is assumed that it cleanses the misfortunes of the past year and brings good fortune to the new one.
Final Thoughts
These festivals are not just about entertainment—they reflect Tanzania’s rich cultural diversity, but rather a cultural reflection of the diversity that Tanzania possesses. No matter what you have a passion for, be it arts, agriculture, music, or ancient tradition, there is a festival in Tanzania that can satisfy your curiosity. On your trip, you will be able to appreciate it more after attending one of those events because they confirm the unique rhythm of life in the country.
The Kilimanjaro International Airport, also known as JRO, is the major access point for tourists visiting Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and other popular safari sites. While the airport is well-connected through both international and regional airlines, the number of direct long-haul flights is limited, with most routes concentrated from European and Middle Eastern hubs. Most international travelers reach JRO by transiting through major hubs such as Doha, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Addis Ababa, or Nairobi, before continuing on to Kilimanjaro.
1. International Airlines Serving Kilimanjaro
Some international airlines operate both direct or connecting routes to Kilimanjaro with flexible options:
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways operates direct flights from Doha (DOH) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) several times per week. Travelers can also choose to connect via other regional hubs such as Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Nairobi (NBO) if flight schedules require.
While Qatar Airways is known for its high service standards and global connectivity, travelers heading to Kilimanjaro should be prepared for at least one connecting leg within East Africa.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates regular direct flights between Amsterdam (AMS) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), often as part of a loop service that may continue to or originate from Dar es Salaam (DAR). The frequency is several times per week, and some flights include a short stop in DAR depending on the schedule. It is a popular choice for travelers coming from Europe and North America since Amsterdam is a significant international centre.
Many KLM flights to Kilimanjaro involve stopovers in Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Nairobi (NBO), sometimes with a stop in Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Nairobi (NBO). As an example, some of KLM flights are terminated at Kilimanjaro then proceed to Dar es Salaam, or the other way round depending on the route difference. Travelers should also ensure to verify their individual flight schedule, because they are subject to change according to days of the week and time of the year, such as arrival and break journey time.
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines operates 2 to 3 flights per week to Kilimanjaro international airport (JRO) instead of offering daily flights via its hub in Istanbul (IST). These flights are also often combined with other East African destination in East Africa like Zanzibar or Mombasa either as a stopover or multi-leg trip. Nonetheless, having little frequency, Turkish Airlines should still be a popular option because it offers affordable fares, a wide choice of routes to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and a high level of onboard service standards.
Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines has regular lines that fly between Kilimanjaro and Addis Ababa (ADD), which is an African hub. Addis Ababa serves as a key transit hub for travelers from West Africa, Asia, and even the United States.
Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways offers a daily flight between Nairobi (NBO) and Kilimanjaro (JRO), making Nairobi a convenient transit hub for international travelers
2. Regional Airlines Flying to Kilimanjaro
Regional airlines also offer vital connectivity within East Africa:
Precision Air
Precision Air, based in Tanzania, operates regular flights between Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Mwanza. It is one of the reliable domestic airlines.
Air Tanzania
The Tanzanian national carrier is engaged in domestic flights and flights to other regions as well, such as flights between Kilimanjaro and other cities of Tanzania, e.g., Dar es Salaam and Mbeya.
RwandAir
RwandAir connects Kilimanjaro to Kigali (KGL), offering access for travelers from Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other parts of Central Africa
How to plan your flight to Kilimanjaro
When booking a flight to Kilimanjaro, be sure to consider your connecting flights, and baggage policies in case you will be flying with local airlines upon your arrival to an international airport. Also, remember that during the peak seasons for climbing (June–October) and safaris (January–March), the flights tend to be full and they can be booked in advance.
In short, Kilimanjaro can be reached through other parts of the world through a range of well-established airlines. Travelers can choose from various flight options depending on their itinerary and needs, whether it is to come as part of a safari, summit attempts or even cultural exploration exercise.
Zanzibar – a beautiful island lying off the coast of Tanzania, famous for its silky white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich Swahili heritage. Though it enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round there are particular months that are warmer than the others.
For travelers wondering when Zanzibar reaches its peak, sun and for heat-seeking, warm-weather enthusiasts, knowing the hottest month is essential for planning beach days, water activities, or restful escapes. While Zanzibar remains warm throughout the year, February typically stands out as the hottest and sunniest month, characterized by high humidity and long, bright days
The Hottest Month: February
The hottest month in Zanzibar is usually February so it is expected that the average daytime highs reach around 32°C (90°F), with occasional spikes during sunny inland days and may get even warmer as there are days that are very hot particularly in the interior or in the sunshine. It is also one of the warmest times to visit at both daytime and night with the night time temperatures remaining warm at around 26°C (79°F)
February's heat is further intensified by high humidity, which often reaches up to 80% or more. This high temperature and humidity can actually make it even hotter, especially to visitors who are not used to such tropical conditions. Sea breezes on the coast however can be of some relief, late afternoons and early evenings.
Activities During the Hottest Month
February is an amazing month to visit Zanzibar even though the temperatures are really high. The skies are clear, the sea calm and visibility of snorkeling and diving is good. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and see the coral reefs of the archipelago.
It is also a peak tourism month, as it is during dry season hence there are tourist attraction sites that are lively and vibrant such as Nungwi and Kendwa beaches. It is a fine period of cultural festivals and spice tours and sightseeing of the ancient Stone Town.
What to Pack and Prepare
When organizing a trip to Zanzibar in February remember the following tips:
Light-weight / breathable fabric (cotton or linen)
Strong UV rays protection with high-SPF sunscreen products
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
A wide hat and sun glasses to keep out additional sunrays
Evening mosquito repellent
Although most hotels and resorts are air-conditioned, ensure that your hotel has proper ventilation of the fans in case you are not very tolerant to hot weather.
How Does It Compare to Other Months?
March to May marks the long rainy season in Zanzibar, with heavy rainfall and high humidity. While temperatures remain warm, frequent showers help moderate the heat
June to October is the dry and slightly cooler season, with average highs around 28–30°C (82–86°F). It is still warm, but less intense than February
November-December: The short rains come but these are usually short and fall towards the later afternoon. Afterward, temperatures rise again and approach those of February
In conclusion, February is the hottest month of the year, February experiencing hot temperature, bright sun, and humid weather. It is also among the most enjoyable months to hit the outdoors, go exploring the local culture and unwind at the beach, assuming that a person is tolerant of heat. All you have to do is come ready and you will experience all a beautiful Indian ocean destination can offer at the brightest of its days.
Yes, Tanzania stamps your passport and it is a standard procedure in the country’s immigration system. Whether you are entering Tanzania for tourism, business, or transit purposes, it is standard practice to receive a passport stamp at all official entry points, including international airports, land border crossings, and seaports
What the Tanzania Passport Stamp Includes
The Tanzanian entry stamp generally includes the following information:
Date of entry
Port of entry (e.g. Julius Nyerere International Airport, Namanga Border, Port of Zanzibar)
The type of visa issued (e.g. tourist visa, business visa, transit visa or visa on arrival)
Legal amount of time allowed to stay (usually 30 or 90 days to visit, on business or tourist missions)
There is also an exit stamp you get as you leave the country, your date and place of departure are also noted. This assists immigration to monitor the adherence of visitors with the stipulated time of stay given.
Who Gets Their Passport Stamped?
Any foreign nationals arriving in Tanzania will have their passports stamped at the point of entry whether you have an eVisa, a visa on arrival or a pre-approved consular visa. Even the nationals of East African Community (EAC) which can travel without a visa, shall have their travels recorded by way of entry and exit stamp so as to keep a record.
Importance of Getting Your Passport Stamped
Functions as the formal evidence of legal immigration into the nation.
Indicates how long you can stay in Tanzania legally.
Saves you in an event you are asked questions concerning your stay by the immigration authorities.
Prevents overstay fines or future difficulties with a visa.
It is important that travelers ensure that the stamp is readable and right. In case your visa is in order, biometric data may be collected at some ports of entry, particularly for long-term visa holders or when additional verification is required, your return or onward travel ticket from Tanzania, and accommodation details would be checked, once you pass the checks, immigration officers will stamp your passport.
Tanzania eVisa and Passport Stamping
In case you submitted an application for a Tanzania eVisa, remember that you need to print the approval grant notice and bring it when arriving. Even though your passport has been approved in advance, it will still be stamped upon entering the country so as to ensure your physical presence in the country to officially begin the countdown of your approved stay duration in the country
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Stamp?
In case, due to whichever reason, your passport may not be stamped:
You might face the charge of illegal entrant, especially when exiting the country or during routine immigration checks
You might get fined, penalized, or prohibited to travel in the future.
After clearing immigration, always check your passport to ensure that the stamp is present and the details are correct
Conclusion
In summary, Tanzanian immigration officers stamp your passport as a normal occurrence in immigration procedures of every traveler. The stamp affirms your entry or arrival and specifies the type of visa you are having and the duration you are staying in the country as well as guaranteeing that your travels are documented. Be it by air, land or sea, ensure that you are able to receive a clear stamp on your passport that all the information is accurate so that you are able to relax throughout your stay in this East African Paradise.
Yes, you can get a Tanzania visa at the border under some conditions and considerations. The details as given below can guide travelers in knowing the process and other options when applying for a visa-on- arrival.
Visa on Arrival at the Border: What You Need to Know
Many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival in Tanzania (VOA) options which are available at the international airports and a variety of land border points. In this system qualified persons can receive a tourist or a regular visa upon arrival in the country. However, only travelers from countries not listed under Tanzania’s restricted or referral visa list are eligible to apply for a visa upon arrival.
Note: This means not all nationalities are eligible for VOA. Those from countries in Tanzania’s “Referral Visa” list must apply in advance through a Tanzanian embassy or consulate and cannot obtain a visa on arrival.
Who Can Get a Visa on Arrival?
Most non-restricted nationalities are eligible for VOA. These are travellers such as those of the United States, United Kingdom, most European Union countries, Canada, Australia, among other nations. Nonetheless, there are a limited number of countries, which are referred to by Tanzania, and the citizens of these countries need to apply earlier in the Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
Remember: Please visit the official Tanzania Immigration site or visit your local embassy to confirm your eligibility.
Where Can You Get a Tanzania Visa on Arrival?
Travelers can obtain a VOA at:
Airports (most reliable):
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – near Arusha/Moshi
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport – Zanzibar
Land Border Posts (check operational status before travel):
Namanga (Kenya-Tanzania)
Tunduma (Zambia-Tanzania)
Rusumo (Rwanda-Tanzania)
Holili (Kenya-Tanzania) – may be unreliable
Manyovu (Burundi-Tanzania)
Seaports (less common):
Zanzibar Port
Dar es Salaam Port
Some land borders, including Holili, may have inconsistent VOA processing due to technical or staffing issues. Travelers are strongly advised to confirm with immigration authorities before using such crossings
Note: Some minor land border crossings in remote areas do not offer VOA services at all. It's best to enter via major, recognized ports of entry
Recommendation: To ensure a smooth entry process, travelers are advised to arrive via major international airports (e.g., Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport), where visa processing is more reliable and better facilitated
Requirements at the Border
To obtain a visa on arrival, be prepared with:
A valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
Visa fee in USD (preferably cash)
A return or onward ticket
Accommodation details or itinerary
Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Downsides of Getting a VOA
Although it is convenient, obtaining a visa at the border can involve:
Lines during peak seasons of travel
Processing delays caused by shortage of staff or equipment
Occasional confusion or stricter checks at smaller land border
E-Visa: A Better Alternative
The best advice given by the Tanzanian immigration services to travelers who do not want to waste time waiting at the border is to use the services of Tanzania immigration services and request a Tanzania e-Visa online through the Tanzanian immigration services portal. The procedure is simple, safe and enables you to cut queues when you arrive.
Conclusion
It is possible to obtain a Tanzania visa at the border, though it is only recommended if you meet the eligibility criteria and plan to enter through a major and well-equipped entry point. The E-Visa system is a more convenient and predictable option, which is necessary to have a smoother trip, particularly in the high season. Notice the latest entry requirements to make sure that you do not get any surprises.
A trip from Dar es Salaam to Saadani National Park is a special journey combining beach view, wildlife search, and the excitement of visiting one of the most peculiar national parks in Tanzania-where the beach meets the bush.
It is unique in that Saadani is the only East African wildlife park that borders the Indian Ocean, which also makes it a fine place to visit in case one wants to have a wildlife safari along with a beach vacation. This guide provides detailed information on how to reach the park by road, air, or sea
1. By Road: The Most Popular and Budget-Friendly Option
The cheapest way to travel from Dar es Salaam to Saadani is by road, making it ideal for budget-conscious safari-goers. The major road includes two routes that depend on where you would like to go in the park:
a) Via Bagamoyo (Southern Entry)
Distance: Approximately 130–160 km depending on the gate/lodge
Time: 4 to 6 hours (longer during rainy seasons)
Route Description:
Start by heading north toward Bagamoyo, an ancient coastal village around 75 km away from Dar es Salaam.
From Bagamoyo drive northward on rougher roads to the Saadani Park South entrance.
It is recommended to use a 4x4 vehicle due to sandy, bumpy, and occasionally waterlogged roads
This is the perfect travel route to those planning to visit the lodge in the southern regions of Saadani or are going to enter the park through Saadani village.
b) Via Mandera (Northern Entry)
Distance: Around 200 km
Time: 5 to 7 hours
Route Description:
Leave Dar es Salaam going northwest on the Morogoro Road (A7).
At Mandera village, turn off and enter the northern park gates or Wami River region
This northern route is longer but can be more reliable in the rainy season.
2. By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Way
A number of domestic charter flights run the Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) to Saadani airstrips such as Saadani Airstrip or Wami Airstrip. These flights are typically arranged by tour operators or safari lodges
Flight Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Airlines: Coastal Aviation, Auric Air (charters only)
Benefits:
Time saving especially when short safaris are involved.
Provides fantastic sceneries of the Tanzanian coastline and rivers.
Most lodges offer pick-up and drop-off services from nearby airstrips
Note: The flights normally have a minimum number of passengers or fly on demand so one should book beforehand using a tour company or lodge.
3. By Boat: A Scenic Yet Rare Option
Some affordable lodges in Saadani can be reached by boat from Dar es Salaam or Bagamoyo, sailing along the Indian Ocean coast
Time: 2 to 4 hours depending on departure point and sea conditions
Highlights:
Travel along the coastline while enjoying views of mangroves, dolphins, and birdlife.
A romantic or luxury option, often included in premium safari packages.
This is a scenic and adventurous route except it is weather and tide dependent. It can be found mainly in the dry season (June to October, or January to February).
Conclusion
Reaching Saadani National Park is an adventure on its own—one that promises unforgettable memories at the intersection of bush and beach. It will be like no other park and have what many others will not, an opportunity to see elephants in the morning and have your feet back in the ocean by night.
A trip from Zanzibar to Nyerere national park is a journey through the turquoise coast to one of the most primeval and lush safari locations of Tanzania. Although separated by hundreds of kilometers, the two destinations are fairly networked with several means of transport between the two, making them reachable, regardless of your travel abilities and plans.
1. By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Domestic flights are the fastest and most common means of reaching the Nyerere National Park once you arrive in Zanzibar. This direct access does not require roads of the mainland and rather places visitors right in the middle of the park.
Airlines: A number of domestic airlines in Tanzania fly daily between the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar and airstrips within or close to Nyerere National Park such as Mtemere, Siwandu, Beho Beho or Kiba.
Time: About an hour or 1.5 hours.
Carriers: Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Safari Air Link
Baggage: These flights tend to be by small, small aircraft and thus there is a strict luggage restriction (15 kg soft bags).
Traveling by plane is best suited to people who are staying at the mid to higher end lodges in Nyerere, most of which offer transfers to and from nearby airstrips through the adjacent airstrips.
2. By Sea + Road + Boat: The More Adventurous, Budget-Friendly Route
For those who are interested in travelling at a more affordable rate and do not mind extending a bit of travel time, a ferry-road-boat transfer offers a more adventurous alternative.
Step-by-Step Option:
Step 1: Ferry from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam
Ferry operators like Azam Marine offer multiple daily trips.
Duration: Around 2 hours.
Book VIP class in advance for comfort and air-conditioning.
Step 2: Road Transfer from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere Gate
The drive from Dar es Salaam to Mtemere Gate or Matambwe Gate of Nyerere National Park takes about 6–7 hours, depending on the road and weather.
You can book a private 4x4 with a driver or join a group safari tour that includes transport.
Optional: Boat Transfer Across the Rufiji River
Some lodges offer a boat transfer as part of the experience, especially from Mloka village, which connects to Mtemere Gate by river.
This route is a full-day adventure—both scenic and immersive, especially for travelers seeking cultural and natural experiences
3. Arranged Safari Packages
In Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, numerous tour operators sell short safari tours to Nyerere National Park covering 3 to 5 days including round trip flights, accommodation, and park fees and game drives. Sometimes it is easier and sometimes it costs less to book a package than to invest in each part separately.
4.Tips for Planning Your Trip
Book flights in advance: small planes fill up quickly during the peak period (June-October).
Nyerere is huge: there is check park access. Factor in through which gate or airstrip your lodge is nearest.
Travel Light: When traveling by air use carry- on bags and keep weight at minimum.
Malaria prevention: Nyerere is an outbreak prone malaria zone. Bring mosquito repellent with you and visit a travel clinic
Park Fees: Visitors to Nyerere National Park are required to pay an entry fee of approximately USD 50 per adult, per day for non–East African citizens. In addition, if you are spending the night inside the park, an extra concession fee of USD 25 per person, per night is applied.
These fees are either:
Paid directly at the park gate (by card only, cash is not accepted), or
Included in your safari package (always verify this with your lodge or tour operator).
Important: All fees are set by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and are subject to change. It’s strongly recommended to confirm the latest rates before your visit.
In summary, no matter whether you decide to fly or to do an overland adventure on a budget, it is quite possible to visit the Nyerere National Park through Zanzibar and it is very rewarding. The placid style of island life and the rough African wilderness juxtapose this trip to be one of the most peculiar travel combinations in Tanzania.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s commercial capital and largest transport hub, offers several convenient ways to reach Nyerere National Park, formerly part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, is now one of the largest protected areas in Africa and the largest national park in Tanzania
The most common means of making this trip are listed below, and so are the practical tips.
1. By Air – Fastest and Most Convenient
The fastest and also the most comfortable means of traveling is flying between Dar es Salaam and Nyerere National Park. Daily flights to airstrips in or near the park are operated by several domestic airlines via Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). Mtemere, Siwandu and Beho Beho airstrips are among the airstrips in the area.
Flight duration: Approx. 1 hour
Airlines: Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, Safari Air Link
Best for: Tourists with limited time or looking for a luxurious safari experience
These are usually packaged in a safari organized by tour operators and they usually operate with light aircraft. The airstrips are well set up in the areas near favorite safari lodges and camps and the transfer to/from the airstrip is normally provided by your accommodation facility.
Tip: Flights can fill up quickly, especially during the high season (June to October), so book well in advance.
2. By Road – Budget-Friendly but Lengthy
To get to Nyerere National Park, road travel is also available from Dar es Salaam city. Nevertheless, it needs preparation and patience.
Distance: Approx. 230–270 km depending on the entry gate (e.g., Mtemere or Matambwe)
Travel time: 6–8 hours by car, depending on road and weather conditions
Vehicle type: 4x4 is recommended, especially during the rainy season
The road travels through towns such as Kibiti and Mloka and then into the main gates into the park. The last 70–80 km approaching Mtemere Gate, especially from Mloka, are on rough dirt roads that can become muddy and impassable in the rainy season.
Tip: Guided road transfers must be highly encouraged with experienced safari drivers as they are a safety measure as well as convenient.
3. Combined Option – Fly In, Drive Out (or Vice Versa)
Many travelers choose to fly one way and drive the other. As one example, you could possibly fly to the park in order to save on time and then have a picturesque overland drive back to Dar es Salaam at the end of your safari.
The method provides you with an ideal situation- a relatively peaceful arrival and an immersive return journey through rural Tanzania.
4. Travel by Public Transport – Not Recommended for Tourists
Public buses and shared minibuses (daladalas) go between Dar es Salaam and such nearby towns as Kibiti or Mloka, but not into the park. Travelers, in turn, would have to organize their own transports to gates. This option is not recommended for international tourists because of safety questions, uncertainty, and no connections.
Final Tips
Points of Entry: The best entry point open to tourists who want to use Dar es Salaam is called Mtemere Gate.
Park Fees & Permits: All visitors must pay park entry fees through TANAPA, and some activities may require additional permits or ranger escort fees.
The best time to visit: June to October (dry season), the best period to have good road conditions and to see games.
Safari packages: Many licensed safari operators in Dar es Salaam or Arusha offer all-inclusive packages to Nyerere National Park, including flights, accommodation, game drives, and meals
Jambiani and Paje are coastal villages, located near to each other on the southeast coast of Zanzibar Island. The two destinations are well known due to their splendid white sand beaches, the turquoise ocean, and a leisurely pace, and they are also the destinations favored by certain beach lovers, kitesurfers, backpackers, and honeymooners.
The short distance between them makes it very easy to visit one from the other. The main alternatives of transport are as follows:
1. By Taxi or Private Car: Fast and Comfortable
When you want the easiest and most convenient means of transport, hiring a private taxi and going on the road would be the most comfortable way of travelling between Jambiani and Paje.
Duration: Around 15–20 minutes
Price: 10-20 USD (it depends on the season, bargaining and where you are in Jambiani)
Where to find: You can order a taxi via your hotel, via local drivers, or with the app. You can try booking via the ZanQuick app, but note that app coverage may be limited in rural areas like Jambiani. It’s safer to ask your hotel or use a local taxi driver
Why Choose This Option:
Perfect when you are also travelling with luggage or with a family.
Taxi are available 24/7, including late evenings
Air-conditioned cars are available upon request.
Tip: Negotiate the fare in advance or ask your hotel to book at a fair local rate.
2. By Dala-Dala (Shared Minibus): Budget-Friendly Adventure
Dala-dalas are locally owned minibuses which are the main system of transport in Zanzibar. They offer a fun way to experience local culture but are often quite cramped.
Duration: 25–35 minutes
Cost: Expect to pay around 1,000–2,000 TZS, though prices may vary slightly depending on demand and time of day
Where to Find: Stand by the main road in Jambiani and flag down a dala-dala heading north toward Paje.
Why Choose This Option:
Extremely cheap
A cultural experience - talk to the locals and immerse yourself in Zanzibari life.
Drawbacks:
It is usually full and not spacious enough to carry big luggage.
No time table--they go out when full.
3. By Bicycle: Eco-Friendly and Scenic
In case you want to spend some amount of exercise time then hire a bicycle is a great and scenic option to travel between Jambiani to Paje. The coast road is very picturesque and mainly flat.
Duration: 30–45 minutes
Cost: Bike rentals range from $5–$10 per day
Where to Rent: Most hotels and hostels in Jambiani rent out bicycles.
Benefits:
Ideal for photography and taking breaks along the way.
Environmentally friendly
Freedom to explore other nearby beaches.
Note: After dark, avoid cycling or walking between villages due to poor street lighting, stray animals, and limited security
4. On Foot: For the Adventurous
If you're up for a long stroll, you can even walk from Jambiani to Paje along the beach.
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
Tips: Bring water, sunscreen, and wear a hat. Sturdy sandals or well-fitted water shoes are recommended for beach walking, as the sand can get hot and long distances may cause discomfort in flimsy flip-flops.
Note: Check the tide schedule before planning a beach walk, as high tide may limit access to some parts of the coast
Why It’s Worth It:
Unforgettable coastal scenery.
Opportunities to interact with locals and see fishermen at work.
Final Thoughts
You are going to Paje to kiteboard there, because the nightlife is huge. You want a change of scenery, this all works well, as traveling to Paje is easy, cheap and full of options, starting off in Jambiani. Depending on the nature of your travel, you can decide to take a taxi to feel comfortable, dala-dala to get an adventurous experience, bicycle to get a sense of freedom, or travel far and wide by walking.