South Africa to Tanzania Distance: Travel Routes and Essential Travel Guide

Planning a trip and wondering how far Tanzania is from South Africa? Find out how far it is to fly between these 2 popular destinations of Africa, the approximate travelling time, road distance, and travel tips for your trip. From safaris to Zanzibar beaches, discover the quickest routes to get there, and begin planning your trip to Tanzania today.

Your complete guide to the South Africa to Tanzania distance

How far is Tanzania from South Africa?

The air distance from South Africa to Tanzania depends on which cities you are flying from and to, but the shortest distance from South Africa (Johannesburg) to Tanzania (Dar es Salaam) is approximately 2400 km or 1500 miles. Direct flights from Johannesburg to Tanzania typically take around 3.5 to 4 hours. Air travel is the quickest and the most convenient way to Tanzania from South Africa.

Tanzania is located in east Africa and South Africa at the southern end of the continent. Although the distance is considerable, strong air connections make travel between the two countries relatively easy. Some popular airports are Dar Es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Flight distance from major South African cities to Tanzania

Travelers can choose direct or connecting flights from several major South African cities to Tanzania.

Departure City (South Africa)	Destination (Tanzania)	Approximate Flight Distance
Johannesburg	Dar es Salaam	2,430 km
Johannesburg	Zanzibar	2,450 km
Johannesburg	Kilimanjaro (Arusha)	2,650 km
Cape Town	Dar es Salaam	4,050 km
Cape Town	Zanzibar	4,100 km
Durban	Dar es Salaam	2,900 km
Durban	Zanzibar	3,000 km
Pretoria	Dar es Salaam	2,420 km

Distances are approximate and may vary slightly depending on flight routing.

How long is the flight from South Africa to Tanzania?

The duration of a flight to Tanzania from South Africa varies depending on the departure city, airline, and whether the route is direct or includes a stopover.

Route	Approximate Flight Time
Johannesburg → Dar es Salaam (Direct)	3.5 – 4 hours
Johannesburg → Zanzibar (Direct)	3.5 – 4 hours
Johannesburg → Kilimanjaro	4 – 5 hours
Cape Town → Dar es Salaam	6 – 9 hours (usually with stopover)
Cape Town → Zanzibar	7 – 10 hours
Durban → Dar es Salaam	5 – 8 hours
Durban → Zanzibar	6 – 9 hours

While choosing for South Africa to Tanzania flight time, it is important to keep in mind that direct flights are usually available from Johannesburg and flights from Cape Town and Durban may be transcontinental through Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa or another regional hub.

Flight times to Tanzania vary depending on your departure city and route

South Africa to Tanzania distance by road

Road travel is a fantastic way to explore a number of African countries along the route.

• Estimated distance: 3,500 to 4,500 km (will vary based on route taken).
• Typical driving hours: About 50-70 hours of driving without long breaks.
• Routed through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi or Mozambique to enter Tanzania.
• Visa requirements and procedures differ from country to country.
• The roads vary from modern highways to rural roads, depending on the route taken.

The road route from South Africa to Tanzania is much longer than by air, but offers the opportunity to discover a variety of landscapes, wildlife reserves, cultural sites and more in Southern Africa and the East African coast.

South Africa to Tanzania distance by bus

You can travel by long-distance bus, but it is a bit time consuming and requires several transfers.

• Approximate road distance: 3,500–4,500 km.
• Total travel time is typically 3-5 days depending on connections, etc. and on processing at the border.
• What is common among travelers is the fact that they keep changing buses in Zambia, Zimbabwe or Malawi.
• The fare of buses is much cheaper than the fare of airplanes, however, they may require an overnight trip.
• Cross-border schedules and immigration requirements require special advance planning, as does other travel.

Flying is still the mode of travel for most tourists because they are more convenient and take less time. For those with an adventurous spirit, however, and wanting to experience Africa overland, bus travel may be an exciting alternative while making the record-breaking South Africa to Tanzania trip through several countries.

A complete guide to traveling from South Africa to Tanzania by bus

South Africa to Tanzania distance by train

Although rail travel between the two countries is possible in theory, there is currently no direct passenger train connecting South Africa and Tanzania.

• Approximate rail distance: 3,500–5,000 km depending on routes and transfers.
• Travelers must combine several rail networks across countries such as Zimbabwe and Zambia.
• The historic TAZARA Railway connects Zambia and Tanzania, ending in Dar es Salaam.
• Multiple train changes and border crossings are required.
• Total travel time can exceed one week, depending on schedules and connections.

For most travelers comparing the South Africa to Tanzania distance, train travel is an adventurous but time-consuming alternative to flying.

Popular destinations in Tanzania for South African travelers

Tanzania has a wide variety of wildlife, beaches, mountains and culture that can be enjoyed by visitors from South Africa.

• Zanzibar – known for its white-sand beaches, diving, and historic Stone Town.
• Serengeti National Park is famous for its abundant wildlife and the annual Great Migration.
• Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular trekking spot.
• UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife sanctuary with beautiful scenery.
• Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and a major gateway to the country's coastal attractions.

A flight to Tanzania from South Africa is a popular option for those looking to explore the world-renowned destinations in Tanzania in a convenient and hassle-free manner.

Top places to visit in Tanzania for South African travelers

Best time to travel from South Africa to Tanzania

Whether you're going on safari, enjoying the beaches, or heading outside for some adventures, selecting the ideal season can add to your enjoyment.

• June-October: Good time for wildlife viewing as the dry season.
• December to February: Great time for beach holidays and Kilimanjaro climbing.
• March to May: Long rainy period, less tourists and lower prices.
• November: Short rains but plenty of attractions can be found.
• Coastal areas like Zanzibar are warm all year round.

Distance from South Africa to Tanzania may not be the main factor to consider when determining the best time to travel, as it is dependent on your interests and planned travel.

Visa requirements for South Africans traveling to Tanzania

It is crucial to know the entry requirements in Tanzania before planning your trip.

• The general requirement for South African passport holders is a passport that is valid for travel and has a long enough validity period.
• Please check visa rules before travelling as they may change.
• Depending on the purpose and duration of travel, an approved visa or entry authorization may be required.
• Onward travel and accommodation may be asked for.
• A requirement to have health documentation before departure should also be reviewed.

Pre-arrival online application can expedite arrival processes and minimise wait times at Tanzanian entry points.

Entry requirements for South Africans visiting Tanzania

Travel tips for visiting Tanzania from South Africa

With a bit of preparation, your experience in Tanzania can be more pleasant and easier.

• Make your booking early to get better fares and schedules.
• Carry some Tanzanian Shillings for purchases in areas where card payments may not be widely accepted.
• Bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen and insect repellents.
• Before traveling, travelers should get comprehensive travel insurance.
• Respect local culture and religion, particularly at religious and cultural events.

Whether you fly or travel overland, proper planning can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

FAQs about South Africa to Tanzania distance

Here are answers to some common questions travelers ask when planning a trip between South Africa and Tanzania. 

Can I drive from South Africa to Tanzania?

Yes. You can drive through several neighboring countries, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, or Mozambique. The journey typically covers 3,500–4,500 km and requires multiple border crossings. 

Is Tanzania close to South Africa?

Tanzania is not immediately neighboring South Africa, but it is relatively accessible by air. The direct flight distance between Johannesburg and Dar es Salaam is around 2,400–2,500 km. 

What airlines fly between South Africa and Tanzania?

Several airlines operate routes between the two countries, including South African Airways, Airlink, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, RwandAir, and various regional carriers. 

Is Zanzibar closer to South Africa than Dar es Salaam?

No. Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam are located close to each other along Tanzania’s coast. Flight distances from South Africa differ only slightly between the two destinations. 

In conclusion

Knowing the South Africa to Tanzania distance makes it easier for travelers to make the choice of the most suitable mode of transportation. The road, rail, or bus journey is where overland experiences lie in Africa; although the fastest and the most convenient option is still flights. There are many reasons why most travelers choose to fly from South Africa to Tanzania rather than travel overland. Be sure to verify passport validity and make sure to apply for Tanzania e-Visa online before your trip, to make your arrival more convenient and get started on your journey with confidence.