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How can you travel from Zimbabwe to Tanzania?

Traveling between Zimbabwe and Tanzania is relatively straightforward, with several transport options depending on your budget, travel style, and time constraints. Although the two countries do not share a direct border, there are regular indirect routes by air and land through neighboring countries. With proper planning, the journey can be smooth and rewarding.

Traveling by Air (Fastest and Most Convenient Option)

The fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Zimbabwe and Tanzania is by air. The vast majority of flights leave Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare) and arrive at major Tanzanian airports such as Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) or Kilimanjaro International Airport.

There are currently no regular direct commercial flights between Zimbabwe and Tanzania, so most journeys require at least one stopover. Common transit hubs include Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Johannesburg, with occasional connections via Kigali depending on the airline. Airlines commonly used on this route include Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Air Tanzania, depending on availability.

Total travel time can range from around 8 hours to over 14 hours, depending on the airline and length of the layover. Flying is the best option for honeymooners, business travelers, or tourists headed straight to the safari locations or Zanzibar.

Traveling by Road (Bus or Private Vehicle)

Overland travel is suitable for budget travelers or those seeking adventure, but it requires more time and careful planning.

By Bus

Zimbabwe does not have direct bus services to Tanzania. Instead, travelers usually take a series of long-distance buses via Harare or Bulawayo, continuing north through Zambia before entering Tanzania.

The border crossings are typical, such as Chirundu or Victoria Falls, Livingstone. From Zambia, travelers typically enter Tanzania through the Nakonde–Tunduma border in northern Zambia.

  • Travel time usually ranges from 3 to 5 days, depending on border procedures, road conditions, and overnight stops.
  • Advantages: More affordable
  • Disadvantages: The distance to the destination is long, several border crossings have to be made, and the comfort is restricted.

It is highly encouraged to select the well-known bus companies and stay overnight at the planned locations.

By Private Car

It is possible to drive between Zimbabwe and Tanzania, but that is only recommended to experienced travelers. The most common driving route passes through Zambia. Drivers have to prepare the following documents:

  • Valid passport and visas
  • International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Valid vehicle registration documents.
  • COMESA Yellow Card insurance.
  • Knowledge of the road conditions and the border procedures.

Although driving is flexible, it needs a lot of planning and patience during border crossings.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Zimbabwean citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania, which can typically be obtained either online as an eVisa or upon arrival, based on the existing policies. Passports must be valid for at least six months before entry.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if the traveler is transiting through or arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever. The travelers also need to be ready to produce accommodation and onward travel evidence.

Choosing the Best Option

  • Tourism or honeymoon travel: flying is the best choice.
  • Budget or backpacking travel: Overland bus travel
  • Flexible or road-trip travel: Private vehicle

Conclusion

You can take a flight to Tanzania, travel by bus, or by car, depending on your priorities and the way you travel. The fastest and most convenient one will be flying, whereas the alternative is road travel, which is more adventurous but more time-consuming. With proper planning, valid travel documents, and awareness of border procedures, traveling between Zimbabwe and Tanzania can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

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