Nairobi, Kenya to Mount Kilimanjaro in northern Tanzania is a common route among adventurers who are intending to scale up the African highest mountain. Although Mount Kilimanjaro itself is miles away within the Tanzanian borders, it is easy to reach it through Kenya- particularly Nairobi, which is a major and international airport in East Africa. Below is a comprehensive guide on reaching Mount Kilimanjaro from Nairobi, detailing both road and air travel options, along with valuable travel advice.
1. Traveling by Road (Bus or Private Car)
Road is one of the most common and cheapest mode of transport to Mount Kilimanjaro with Nairobi city. The most direct border crossing is via the Namanga post, connecting Nairobi to Arusha and Moshi, the cities that are the principal access of the mountain Kilimanjaro.
Option A: Nairobi to Moshi by Bus
Step 1: Board a bus from Nairobi to Moshi or Arusha, operated by companies such as:
Riverside Shuttle
Impala Shuttle
Modern Coast
Step 2: From Arusha, take a local bus or taxi to Moshi, the town closest to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Travel time: 6 to 8 hours (Nairobi to Arusha), plus 1.5 to 2 hours (Arusha to Moshi)
Cost: Around $25–$35 USD for a one-way trip
Option B: Nairobi to Moshi by Private Car or Tour Operator
You may want to reserve transportation of your own or take a pre-booked tour with hotel transportation in Nairobi and border services and personal drop-off in Moshi.
It is more comfortable and suitable when traveling in groups or when the person has gear.
Border Crossing at Namanga
Take your passport and, depending on the country, a Tanzanian visa (it can be obtained at the border or online on the site with eVisa).
Citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries like Kenya do not require a visa. However, South African nationals must obtain a visa either online or on arrival.
A Yellow Fever certificate may be required, especially if transiting through high-risk countries
2. Traveling by Air (Fastest Option)
In case you are fast and like convenience, flying is the fastest way to get from Nairobi to Mount Kilimanjaro. Direct flights may not operate daily throughout the year and should be checked in advance.
Flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Airlines: Kenya Airways, Precision Air and Air Tanzania have daily direct flights between Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Flight Duration: About 1 hour
Cost: Between $150–$300 USD depending on the season and booking time
It takes between 45 and 60 minutes by road, leaving the Kilimanjaro International Airport and getting to Moshi, the chief town of Kilimanjaro treks.
3. Final Leg: Reaching the Mountain
When you get to Moshi or Arusha then your trekking agency or hotel will normally organize your transfer at the relevant park gate of Kilimanjaro where you will start your climb. It has a number of routes (e.g. Marangu, Machame, Lemosho) and each route has a point of access.
4. Tips for a Smooth Journey
Visa: The majority of foreigners are obliged to apply for Tanzanian visa; it can be done online or get it upon arrival.
Currency: Bring Kenyan Shillings or USD, as they will be exchanged with Tanzanian shillings (TZS) upon arrival.
Yellow Fever Certificate: You should have it, particularly when moving to high-risk areas via air transport.
Reserve: Either a bus or an airplane, book in advance during peak trekking time (June-October, January-March).
Altitude planning: It requires taking time to adjust in case you are climbing Kilimanjaro.
Conclusion
Traveling from Nairobi to Mount Kilimanjaro is easily accomplished with two primary options: a scenic overland route through Arusha and Moshi, or a swift one-hour flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Both paths ultimately bring you to the base of Africa's highest mountain, marking the start of your expedition. Select the route that best suits your time constraints, financial considerations, and personal comfort level, and prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure
The Ngorongoro Crater: it is one of the most outstanding natural attractions in Africa and a World Heritage Site (UNESCO). It is situated in the northern part of Tanzania and belongs to the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area, being famous because of a great concentration of animals, breathtaking landscapes, and the unusual ecosystem. The most common question that most travelers pose is; how many days to spend in Ngorongoro Crater? The answer actually depends on your interest, budget and general itinerary, but generally, 1-2 days would be enough to get the full experience of the crater.
1. One Day – Perfect for a Classic Safari Experience
It takes most of the visitors one day on Ngorongoro Crater and that suffices them to have a perfect safari excursion:
Morning game drive: Go out early enough in the morning so you can see predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards while they are most active
Midday at the lake: Look at flamingos and hippos at Lake Magadi in the middle of the crater.
Afternoon safari: You may encounter elephants, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and possibly the rare black rhino
Since the crater covers an area of just 250 square kilometers and its diameter is only approximately 19 kilometers, one can literally cover all the crater within a day. Game drives typically last 5 to 6 hours, covering all key zones in the crater in one circuit. However, time inside is flexible as long as it remains within the 24-hour permit and one-entry policy.
2. Two Days – For a More Relaxed and Immersive Visit
Spending two days allows you to:
Experience morning and afternoon game drives at a more leisurely pace.
Explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area's surrounding region, including nearby Maasai villages and viewpoints such as the Crater Rim.
Observe diverse weather conditions and wildlife behavior throughout the day.
Stay overnight at a luxurious lodge or tented camp on the rim such as Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or AndBeyond Crater Lodge, offering stunning views and early access to the crater.
Two days is an ideal duration for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers combining Ngorongoro with extended safaris in the Serengeti or Lake Manyara.
3. Travel Tips
Ngorongoro Crater entry permits are valid for 24 hours but allow only one vehicle descent into the crater. If you wish to enter again the next day, a new permit and fee are required.
Accommodation: Reserve early ahead of time- the best lodges on the crater rim can be filled up.
Weather: It is cold during the mornings and evenings, so wear warm clothing.
Conclusion
To most of the people who visit there, a day is sufficient to do a visit in the Ngorongoro Crater and experience a rich safari. But, when you are interested in more in-depth experience or more relaxed game viewing, or you would like to visit the environment of a conservation region, then 2 days will be a better option. Anyway, Ngorongoro Crater is the highlight one will never forget in the Tanzanian safari.
Big Five is the name which implies the five most popular and famous animals in African Wildlife safaris. Big-game hunters originally coined the term, which brings in focus on five animals that are hardest to track by foot. Safari tourism has embraced the term today and it has become an epitome of the ultimate wildlife experience. With vast savannas, protected national parks, and rich biodiversity, Tanzania is regarded as one of the finest countries in Africa to see all the Big Five in their natural habitat.
1. Lion (Panthera leo)
The lion is a symbol of strength, and power; being the King of the Jungle. Tanzania has one of the biggest populations of lions in Africa, especially in Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Ruaha National Park. Lions are known social cats and they live in a pride usually seen around acacia trees or hunting together. Safari visitors are also lucky to encounter lions at close range and this is especially during early morning or late afternoon game drives
2. African Elephant (Loxodonta africana)
The African elephant is the largest land animal in the world. Elephants are widespread in Tarangire National Park in Tanzania that has high concentrations of elephants, Serengeti and Selous Game Reserve. They are highly intelligent and emotional animals that usually travel in herds and are appreciated by their sizable appearance and long tusks.
3. Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)
African buffalo commonly referred to as Cape buffalo are unpredictable and considered among the most dangerous among the Big Five. They are very strong animals and they tend to move in big herds to the extent of 100s of them. Almost all the major parks in Tanzania have buffalos such as Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Katavi National Parks.
4. Leopard (Panthera pardus)
Leopards are elusive, solitary and night predators which have speed, stealth and beautiful looks. Having spotted coats and strong physiques, they like to hunt in the night and will tend to spend sleeping hours in trees. Despite being difficult to sight compared to the lions or the elephants. Leopards can be found in parks such as Serengeti, Ruaha, and Lake Manyara. The appearance of a leopard during the safari can be called a highlight because it is a rare sight.
Serengeti National Park offers the highest chances of seeing leopards, especially in areas like Seronera. Lake Manyara’s forested regions also provide good opportunities.
5. Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)
The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) is critically endangered and the rarest of the Big Five to see. In Tanzania, your best chance of spotting a black rhino is inside the Ngorongoro Crater, which is one of the few places in East Africa where they roam relatively freely under protection. Very limited numbers are also kept under strict protection in parts of the Serengeti and private conservancies.
Conclusion
The safari adventure in Tanzania is considered one of the most real and exciting in Africa where one has a chance to watch the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and black rhino in the picturesque scenes of nature. Whether you find yourself in a remote corner of the Serengeti or exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, the sighting of these wild animals is an experience of a lifetime.
Getting to Zanzibar from South Africa is quite straightforward and is commonly preferred by the holidaymaker who wants a mix of tropical beaches, historical attractions and to go and have fun on the Island. Leaving Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban you can choose out of a variety of convenient flights offering you to fly close to this island paradise in the Indian Ocean.
1. By Air – The Fastest and Most Practical Option
The most convenient way of travelling between South Africa and Zanzibar is by flight. Direct and connecting flights to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), Zanzibar, can be found within the major cities of South Africa.
Direct Flights
Airlines:
There are occasional direct seasonal or charter links within Johannesburg (JNB) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) by FlySafair.
Flight Duration:
Around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours direct.
The direct flights are best suited to the holiday makers who come to Zanzibar as tourists and are more frequent during the South African school holidays or during peak seasons.
Connecting Flights
If a direct flight is not available, travelers can choose from several connecting routes via East African or Middle Eastern cities:
Via Nairobi (Kenya Airways)
Via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines)
Via Doha (Qatar Airways)
Via Dar es Salaam (Air Tanzania or Precision Air)
Flight duration including layovers can range from 7 to 15 hours, depending on the connection time.
2. Visa and Entry Requirements
Visa Requirements
Holders of South African passports do not need a visa to travel to Zanzibar (Tanzania) as tourists, on business motives or family visitations which do not exceed 90 days.
In case you intend to be in the country longer than 90 days, want to work or study in the country, then you have to apply through the immigration authorities in Tanzania to get the correct long term visa or permit.
There is no requirement to apply in advance as well as after travel to apply for a visa in case of upcoming stay less than 90 days and of eligible purpose.
Passport Requirements
You need to have a valid South African passport that must be valid at least 6 months after entry in Zanzibar
Make sure that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages to obtain entry and exit stamps.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Yellow Fever: Potentially mandatory in case of arrival in a country where Yellow Fever has been identified (e.g. Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda), as well as, or transit in a yellow fever-endemic country. Not necessary in direct flights coming to South Africa except one is advised to bring along with a certificate.
COVID-19: As of 2025, there will be no need of COVID-19 testing and vaccination documentation in order to travel to Tanzania, including Zanzibar.
Malaria prevention: Zanzibar is an endangered malaria region. Lather up with mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing and pay attention to anti-malarial drugs.
Arrival in Zanzibar
Port of Entry: All international travelers arrive via Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Unguja Island (Zanzibar).
You may be asked for:
Proof of accommodation booking
Return or onward travel ticket
Sufficient funds to support your stay (not always enforced)
3. Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: Beach holiday and sightseeing is possible in the dry seasons between June and October and December to February.
Currency: The national currency is the Tanzanian Shillings (TZS). Many tourism services in Zanzibar accept US dollars, especially in hotels and tour agencies
Airport Arrival: All the international flights arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), which is located near Stone Town on Unguja Island
Conclusion
Traveling from South Africa to Zanzibar is straightforward, offering both direct and connecting flight options. With visa-free entry for South Africans, breathtaking beaches, and a welcoming island atmosphere, Zanzibar is an ideal holiday destination, only a few hours´ flight away. Whether a quick direct flight or a connecting journey appeals more, reaching Zanzibar from South Africa is easily accomplished and well worth the trip.
Zanzibar has one main international airport, one secondary domestic airport, and several smaller airstrips. Although the most well-known part of the aviation infrastructure in Zanzibar is the main international airport near Stone Town, the other part of it somewhat goes beyond that with the increased tourism sector and inter-island tours.
1. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Main Airport
This is the main airport of Zanzibar and processes almost all the international and domestic commercial flights.
Location: Approximately 5 km from Stone Town, on Unguja Island, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
IATA Code: ZNZ
Role: It is the only international airport in Zanzibar.
Terminals:
Terminal 2: Older terminal and it deals in domestic and regional flights primarily.
Terminal 3: The terminal opened a few years ago which is used in handles international flights
Flight Services:
International Flights: Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, FlyDubai, Ethiopian Airlines, Oman Air, and others perform routes to such cities as Doha, Istanbul, Dubai, Addis Ababa, Muscat, etc.
Domestic Flights: There are regular flights to Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Pemba Island on domestic airlines such as Air Tanzania, Precision Air and Coastal Aviation.
This airport is the key entry point into Zanzibar and it services most passengers, particularly tourists.
2. Pemba Airport (PMA) – Second Airport
Pemba Airport, Wawi or Karume Airport is a small domestic airport, located on the Pemba Island, second largest island of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
IATA Code: PMA
Location: Near the town of Chake Chake in central Pemba.
Services: Limited to domestic flights, mainly from Unguja (ZNZ) and Dar es Salaam.
Aircraft Type: Mostly light aircraft and turboprops.
Runway: Recently upgraded to support better regional service.
Though not international, Pemba Airport plays a critical role in supporting tourism and trade on Pemba Island.
3. Other Airstrips and Charter Services
Apart from the two main airports, Zanzibar has several smaller, private, or resort-affiliated airstrips that are not considered full public airports.
Some luxury resorts and private islands utilize chartered flights or helicopter landings for transport.
These airstrips are normally utilised in fast transfers and are not served by commercial airlines
Conclusion
There are two airports that are recognised in Zanzibar. It is the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) serving both internal and external flights and most visitors to Zanzibar pass through this airport which is set up on the Unguja Island. The second is the Pemba Airport (PMA) that is considered to be a domestic one, situated at Pemba Island and primarily serves regional domestic travel within Tanzania. Besides these, a few smaller airstrips spread throughout the archipelago serve to receive small traffic of private and charter flights and are usually used by luxury resorts or small interisland transfer purposes.
Yes, Arusha is served by an international airport, but with an important distinction. Arusha does not have an international airport within the city limits. Instead, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), servicing Arusha, is situated approximately 50 kilometers (about one hour's drive) from the city center. Therefore, although Arusha lacks a full-fledged international airport within its city limits, it is readily served by a nearby international airport.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Serving Arusha
Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as the primary international airport for travelers seeking destinations in Arusha, Moshi, and Mount Kilimanjaro. JRO is managed by Kilimanjaro Airports Development Company (KADCO), a government-owned entity under the Tanzania Airports Authority
The location: Situated between Arusha and Moshi, near the small town of Boma Ng’ombe.
Distance: Around 45–50 km from Arusha and 40 km from Moshi.
International Flights: JRO handles international flights to and from major destinations such as Amsterdam (with the KLM), Doha (with Qatar Airways), Istanbul (with Turkish Airlines), and Nairobi (with Kenya Airways) among others come to it.
JRO also facilitates the regional and domestic flight services, which connect the customers with Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Mwanza, and Serengeti safari airstrips.
Arusha Airport (ARK): Not International
Arusha Airport (ARK) on the other hand is a local airport only 8 km away in the Arusha city centre. It only deals with smaller aircrafts and domestic flights.
IATA Code: ARK
Airlines: Local companies include Precision Air, Air Tanzania and Coastal Aviation. These airlines mainly serve regional routes and safari destinations
Destinations: Mostly flies to Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Serengeti, and other game reserves.
No immigration/customs: As ARK is not designated as an international airport, it cannot process international arrivals or departures
Transport Between Arusha and JRO
The vast majority of international travellers on their way to Arusha arrive in Kilimanjaro International Airport and proceed on a private transfer, a taxi or a shuttle bus to the city of Arusha. The trip is normally 60-75 minutes depending on the traffic.
A number of safari and hotel companies can also arrange pick up at the airport, particularly those visiting the nearby Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater or the mount Kilimanjaro.
When discussing wealth and economic development in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam stands out as the richest and most economically significant city in the country. But despite the capital being relocated to Dodoma, Dar es Salaam still remains the commercial, as well as, financial centre of Tanzania. It is the largest city with a population of more than 6 million and also a contributor of the GDP to the nation.
Dar es Salaam: Tanzania's Economic Powerhouse
The city of Dar es Salaam has the undisputed economic center of the Tanzanian economy, although Dodoma is the official capital. It is the most populated city, the principal port city, and also the main business and financial center of the country. This is evident in its economic predominance which is evident by its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as its GDP per capita.
As it is reported and statistically shown by such sources as the National Bureau of Statistics (Tanzania), Dar es Salaam consistently ranks first among all regions in Tanzania in terms of both total GDP and GDP per capita. To give an example, recent statistics show that Dar es Salaam heavily outperforms other parts in terms of GDP per capita with numbers that are way above the rest of the country and its other principal cities, such as Arusha or Mwanza. Dar es Salaam is involved in the national economy to a large extent than any other region does as far as total GDP is concerned.
Key Economic Sectors in Dar es Salaam:
The wealth of Dar es Salaam is driven by a diverse and robust economy, primarily centered around:
Services Sector: It is the biggest contributor to the GDP of Dar es Salaam and this includes finance, banking, insurance, real estate, telecommunication and very fast expanding hospitality and tourism. Being the primary point of the entrance of foreign visitors, the city enjoys a number of services that are related to it.
Trade and Commerce: Dar es Salaam as well with a major port located in the strategic position on the Indian Ocean is the main access point of not only Tanzanian imports and exports to but also to a number of neighboring countries including landlocked ones as well. That is why it is an important hub of wholesale and retail trade, distribution and logistics.
Manufacturing: The manufacturing industries that comprise a good percentage of Tanzania including the light industries, consumer goods and processing plants are found in the city. This industry offers a good amount of jobs and adds to the national output.
Construction: Since it is highly urbanized and fast-developing, the construction industry is one of the key industries in Dar es Salaam with constant investment in the infrastructural systems, commercial construction, and residential real estate.
Informal Sector: The informal sector is a major driver of the economy of Dar es Salaam as it is the case of many cities in Africa. Although it can be less measurable and easier to create the whole scope of the contribution to economy of the city, it is the key to creating jobs as well as livelihoods in the city, including street vendors, and small-scale services.
Why Dar es Salaam Stands Out:
Dar es Salaam's rich status is not accidental; it's a culmination of several factors:
Infrastructure: It has the best developed infrastructure in the whole of Tanzania which includes the busiest port, the main international airport and a fairly extensive road network which are requisite to any economic activity.
Population and Workforce: Its large population provides a substantial workforce and a considerable consumer base, fueling demand for goods and services.
Investment Magnet: The city serves as the primary attractor for both domestic and foreign direct investment (FDI) because of its robust commercial activity, well-established networks, and access to a large consumer base.
Historical Role: Being a former capital city and having been the commercial centre in modern times has propelled it to cement itself as being the economic hub of the nation.
Although other regions such as Mwanza (known for agriculture, fishing, and mining) and Arusha (which is a great tourism destination and agricultural hub) are large contributors to the total gross domestic product of Tanzania and also provide greater gross domestic product in some of the sub-regions, none of them can yet compete with Dar es Salaam in the total size of the economy, variety and richness of the economy and the wealth per capita. Dar es Salaam is the wealthiest and the most economically important city of Tanzania.
The journey between Kenya and Tanzania is one of the most popular and convenient for both locals and international travelers since the two nations share their borders and at the same time their cultures. Wherever you are touring the breathtaking sceneries associated with Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park or the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, there are some viable ways of traveling amongst the neighbors of the east African region. Here is a detailed guide to going to Tanzania from Kenya
Travel Options: Road, Air, and Rail
By Road (Bus or Car)
Road travel is one of the most popular and cheap modes of travelling between Kenya and Tanzania. There are a number of international bus services which run everyday between the main cities like Nairobi, Arusha, Moshi or Dar es Salaam.
Famous bus companies: Modern Coast, Riverside Shuttle, and Impala Shuttle provide good quality.
Time: Nairobi to Arusha is approximately 5-6 hours, but the time taken by Nairobi to Dar es Salaam is also dependent on the condition of roads with a normal time being 13-15 hours
Border crossing: Namanga (between Nairobi and Arusha) and TavetaHolili (between Voi and Moshi), are the most frequently used border posts.
Alternatively, you can drive a private or rental vehicle. Ensure the vehicle has the necessary documents, including a valid driving license, insurance (COMESA Yellow Card), and car ownership papers.
By Air
To save time and travel more comfortably, you can fly directly from Nairobi to major cities in Tanzania
Airlines: Kenya Airways, Precision Air and Air Tanzania have direct flights.
Flight time: The flight time to both Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is approximately one hour. Kilimanjaro Airport is situated approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Arusha and 50 kilometers east of Moshi, thus providing a convenient entry point for travelers visiting Mount Kilimanjaro or the northern safari circuit.
Cost: The prices are variable and may be from 150 to 300 dollars one-way ticket depending on the season and the time you book.
Flying is especially recommended if you are traveling to Zanzibar or have limited time to cover the long distances
By Rail
While there is no direct international train yet, the Nairobi–Voi–Taveta segment and the Tanzanian SGR developments toward Arusha may soon offer more integrated rail options. Nevertheless, rail networks in both destinations are becoming better and tourists who are interested in scenic or overland travel can organize inter-modal travel including frequent use of trains and buses.
Entry Requirements for Kenyan Citizens Traveling to Tanzania
1. Visa Requirements
Visa-free: People with a Kenyan passport do not require a visa to enter Tanzania.
Length of Stay: 90 days can be granted at a single visit whether as a tourist, on business or to visit relatives.
Extensions: In case of necessity, extensions can be carried at Tanzania Immigration Office before the granted visa-free period of stay ends.
Required Travel Documents
To enter Tanzania from Kenya, you must carry the following:
Valid Passport: It has to be valid at least in 6 months
National ID (Huduma Namba): Not accepted for international travel — you must have a passport
Return/Onward Ticket : Recommended, especially when entering by air
Accommodation Details: Recommended to show booking confirmations
Travel Purpose: May be asked to declare at immigration
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Vaccine/Test
Requirement
Yellow Fever Certificate
A yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country (such as Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, etc.). Kenya is a yellow fever risk country, so a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required when entering Tanzania from Kenya, especially when traveling by air. This regulation is in place to prevent the spread of yellow fever.
COVID-19 Vaccination
As of now, there is no test or proof of vaccination required for entry, at least until 2025. However, it's essential to verify the latest travel requirements before visiting, as regulations may change.
Malaria Precautions
Recommended: Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider anti-malarials.
Where Can Kenyans Enter Tanzania?
You can enter Tanzania via:
Land borders:
Namanga (to Arusha)
Taveta/Holili (to Moshi/Kilimanjaro)
Lunga Lunga/Horohoro (to Tanga)
Isibania/Sirari (to Tarime/Mwanza region)
Airports:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ)
Sea ports (from ferries if traveling via Mombasa or Zanzibar)
Additional Notes
Driving across the border: Kenyan motorists crossing into Tanzania with a private vehicle must possess a valid driver's license, the vehicle's registration document (proof of ownership), and COMESA insurance (Yellow Card). Furthermore, a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) is required and must be obtained from the Tanzanian Revenue Authority (TRA) or the relevant immigration office at the border crossing. It is highly advised to pre-confirm the specific TIP requirements and to ensure all documents are correctly prepared to prevent delays or penalties at the border.
Currency: t is recommended to exchange some Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) either before your trip or upon arrival. Kenyan Shillings (KES) can have the acceptance close to the border, but not unduly in the rest of the places.
Going to Tanzania from Kenya is not a difficult route with several options available to suit your budget and timeline. When you are traveling through Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti or the Zanzibar, the experience begins with a well arranged border crossing or flight. Choose the travel option that best suits your schedule and sense of adventure
Yes. July is definitely a best time to visit Tanzania, as the weather is ideal, there are excellent moments to observe wildlife and both safari trips and beach holidays can be enjoyed. Anyone hoping to visit the Serengeti, hike Mount Kilimanjaro or enjoy the white beaches of Zanzibar will find July to be an ideal time.
Perfect Weather Conditions
July is in the dry season of Tanzania (from June to October), so it’s the perfect time to visit. You can expect dry, cool air and clear skies with less humidity in the north and center of the country this month.
Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) depending on the region and elevation.
Evenings can be cool, particularly in highland areas like Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater, so packing a light jacket is recommended.
The lack of rain means roads are more accessible, trails are dry, and wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather near water sources.
Ideal for Safaris
July is the peak safari season in Tanzania. Sparse vegetation and limited water sources draw wildlife to rivers and waterholes, making wildlife sightings more reliable and visually striking.
In the Serengeti, July stands out as a top month for the Great Migration, particularly the dramatic river crossings at the Grumeti or Mara Rivers, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras negotiate crocodile-filled waters.
Ngorongoro Crater provides exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year, but the dry season produces the clearest views.
Parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ruaha also offer superb game viewing during this time of year.
For travelers seeking a quieter safari experience, southern and western parks like Nyerere (Selous), Katavi, or Mahale Mountains offer remote wilderness and excellent wildlife in July with fewer crowds
Great for Zanzibar and the Coast
Zanzibar and Tanzania’s mainland coast are delightful in July. The weather is sunny and warm but not overly hot or humid, making it ideal for:
Beach relaxation
Snorkeling and diving
Exploring Stone Town’s cultural sites
Unlike the rainy season, you’re unlikely to face weather-related disruptions to travel or beach activities.
Things to Keep in Mind
July falls within Tanzania's peak tourist season, making popular parks and lodges busy, and increasing the cost of accommodations and safaris.
To secure your trip, it is recommended to book well in advance, especially if you are aiming to see the Great Migration or stay at high-end safari camps.
Certain areas, particularly the southern highlands, experience cool temperatures at night, so pack layers of clothing accordingly.
While July offers clear skies for Kilimanjaro trekking, the higher altitudes can be very cold and windy, so climbers should pack thermal layers and gear suited for sub-zero temperatures
Visiting Tanzania in July is great because the weather is perfect for safaris, it’s clear and many animals are active. No matter if you’re spotting the Great Migration, climbing Kilimanjaro or just relaxing in Zanzibar, July has something unforgettable and fulfilling in store for you.
Arusha, often called the safari capital of Tanzania, is not only a gateway to famous national parks like Serengeti national park and Ngorongoro conservation area but also a vibrant cultural hub offering authentic Tanzanian souvenirs. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning traveler, Arusha is the perfect place to buy unique, locally made crafts and gifts. Below are some of the best things to buy in Arusha
1. Makonde Wood Carvings
They are some of the most famous souvenirs found in Tanzania. Much of the Makonde people’s art features highly detailed ebony wood carvings of human beings, animals, spirits and other imaginary characters.
Why buy: Cultural depth, handmade, durable
Where: Maasai Market (near Clock Tower or Cultural Heritage Centre)
2. Tinga Tinga Paintings
Tinga Tinga is a vibrant and playful artistic style originating in Tanzania. It is distinguished by bold lines and lively depictions of animals and village scenes.
Why buy: Eye-catching, affordable, easy to pack (especially canvas rolls)
Where: Art galleries, local street stalls, or the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
Note: Prices for original Tinga Tinga paintings can vary significantly—larger, signed pieces may be expensive.
3. Kitenge and Kanga Fabrics
These vibrantly patterned cotton fabrics are used throughout East Africa for garments, wraps, and household decoration.
Why buy: Multi-purpose, lightweight, beautiful patterns
Where: Arusha Central Market or local textile shops
4. Tanzanite Gemstones
Tanzanite is a rare blue-violet gemstone found only in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a highly sought-after and elegant gemstone, ideal as a valuable souvenir in the form of rings, necklaces, or loose stones.
Why buy: Unique to Tanzania, high value
Where: Certified dealers like Tanzanite Experience Museum or reputable jewelers in Arusha
Note: Prices vary widely depending on quality; certified stones come at premium rates.
5. Beaded Maasai Jewelry
Handcrafted by Maasai women, these vibrant necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are imbued with colorful beads and carry deep cultural significan
Why buy: Supports local women, traditional design
Where: Maasai Women’s Fair Trade Centers or local Maasai markets
6. Handwoven Baskets and Bowls
Often crafted from natural fibers and dyed with locally sourced pigments, these items serve both decorative and functional purposes.
Why buy: Lightweight, eco-friendly, handmade
Where: Arusha Curio Shops or roadside craft stalls
7. Tanzanian Coffee and Tea
Tanzanian coffee, cultivated in the rich highlands near Arusha and Mount Meru, is renowned worldwide. Packaged beans or ground coffee make a wonderful, aromatic gift
Why buy: Consumable souvenir, high quality
Where: Local coffee shops, Shanga Gift Shop, supermarkets
8. Shanga Workshop & Gift Shop
For meaningful souvenirs, consider visiting the Shanga Workshop in Arusha. This social enterprise employs people with disabilities to create beautiful, high-quality glassware, textiles, and jewelry.
Why buy: Ethical shopping, artisanal quality, social impact
Where: Shanga Village near Arusha Coffee Lodge
If you're seeking the finest souvenirs in Arusha, Makonde carvings, Tinga Tinga art, Maasai beadwork, or a piece of exquisite Tanzanite are sure to please. Whether you're purchasing for personal enjoyment or as presents, Arusha boasts a substantial collection of handcrafted items, imbued with meaning and reflecting the rich artistry and artistry.