Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, with a fascinating height of 19,341 feet. A large number of tourists and climbers flock to it every year. To fully enjoy the adventure, you must first know how to get to Kilimanjaro. The mountain borders Kenya and is in the northern part of Tanzania. Due to its remote location, the most convenient and straightforward way to reach it is by air. Some airports have direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). In other circumstances, you may need to take a connecting flight or go by bus.
Whether you’re flying internationally or travelling overland from neighbouring countries or other parts of Tanzania, understanding the different routes and transport options is key to a smooth and stress-free arrival. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this adventure.
Flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport: Your Gateway
For most travellers, Kilimanjaro Airport is the primary arrival point and serves as the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro and Northern Tanzania’s safari circuit. This airport is between Arusha and Moshi. JRO is 40 minutes away from Moshi, a famous starting point for most climbs. Arusha is a larger city and is 90 minutes away from the airport. It is the centre of safari adventures into the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Most international airlines operate flights to Kilimanjaro, including Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, and Kenya Airways. Travellers coming from Europe, North America, or Asia can book flights with a single stopover at major hubs such as Nairobi (Kenya), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), or Dar es Salaam (Tanzania). With daily flights arriving from these cities, the airport is well-connected, making it convenient for adventurers worldwide.
It is essential to note that JRO is a relatively small airport, which makes immigration and baggage processes smooth and efficient. Upon arrival, visitors can access a range of transportation options, including pre-booked hotel transfers and local taxis waiting at the terminal.
At Zara Tanzania Adventures, our guests are picked up and dropped off in private, comfortable vehicles from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi and transported to various trailheads.
Flights to Kilimanjaro: Choosing the Best Route
When booking your flights to Kilimanjaro, consider both your budget and travel preferences. Direct flights to the airport are the most convenient but may cost slightly more, depending on your location. Otherwise, you can fly into neighbouring countries and use a connecting flight or road trip to JRO. Learn more about how to get to Kilimanjaro by different routes:
- Direct Flights to JRO: Airlines like KLM, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines offer direct or one-stop flights from Europe, the Middle East, and select U.S. cities. Booking well in advance ensures better fares, and travellers can choose between economy and business class for added comfort.
- Via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam: From Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), daily flights to JRO are available with carriers like Precision Air and Kenya Airways. This is a standard route due to its extensive international connections to Nairobi and the low cost of tickets.
- Internal Flights in Tanzania: For those exploring Tanzania before their climb, domestic airlines such as Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Flightlink, Assalaam Air and Coastal Aviation provide regular flights from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar to JRO. They are perfect for you if you wish to combine a Kilimanjaro trek with a beach holiday in Zanzibar.
When booking connecting flights, plan well to avoid tight schedules. Consider allowing a time difference of at least 2-3 hours between flights to avoid potential delays.
Alternatively, you can take an overland route and fly to Nairobi, then drive to Moshi or Arusha, which is a cheaper and more adventurous option. It takes 6-8 hours to get to Moshi town from Nairobi. Ensure you have all the necessary documents and visas as you go through the Namanga border.
If you’re coming from Dar es Salaam, consider taking a more extended road trip to Moshi. You wouldn’t need to get to Kilimanjaro International Airport anymore. The trip is about 10-12 hours. You have the chance of a lifetime to see the Tanzanian countryside. For convenience and safety, you can rent a personal vehicle or utilise a reputable shuttle service.
Buses also run between major cities and Moshi. It’s essential to book reputable companies and use express buses to reduce travel time.
Notable Travel Advice for Reaching Kilimanjaro
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind as you plan your trip. These tips will assist you to learn more about how to get to Kilimanjaro.
- Visas: You can obtain a visa on arrival at JRO; however, it is recommended to visit the Tanzanian embassy’s website to determine the latest requirements for your specific passport. You can also use e-visas for ease and convenience.
- Currency: The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Although US dollars are commonly used to pay for visas and large purchases, it is advisable to carry some local currency to settle small bills.
- JRO Transport: Book your flight with the tour company or hotel. There are taxis at the airport to take you to your destination. You may need to book the taxi service in advance. This guarantees fixed prices and eliminates worries.
- Health Precautions: Consider taking yellow fever vaccinations to prevent illness during the trip. Bring insect repellent to guard against the mosquitoes.
Entry Points and the Mount Kilimanjaro Map
Understanding the Mount Kilimanjaro map can help you plan your arrival and trek more effectively. Moshi is the most common base for most mountaineers and is only 27 miles away from the park gates. However, Arusha offers more luxurious facilities and is a better option if you plan to combine trekking with safari tours.
Kilimanjaro International Airport is conveniently located near the main climbing routes, including the Machame, Marangu, and Lemosho routes. You can better plan transportation to your hotel, gear rental shops, and the National Park entrance gates by taking a look at the area.
Final Thoughts
Kilimanjaro is not just a location. It’s an experience that many climbers crave. Preparing for such an adventure is something to look forward to. You’re taking the first of many steps to the roof of Africa. Knowing how to get to Kilimanjaro is only the beginning of a wholesome experience.
To learn more about the mountain’s location and nearby towns, check out Where is Mount Kilimanjaro? See our trek choices for climbing Kilimanjaro to start your ascent from the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to get to Kilimanjaro from Nairobi
You can take a direct flight from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). It takes about 1 hour to get there. Alternatively, you can drive to the scenic border area at Namanga in about 6-8 hours.
2. Which airlines fly directly to JRO?
Airlines such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, and Ethiopian Airlines provide flights to Kilimanjaro with minimal connections. Precision Air and Kenya Airways also operate regional flights to JRO.
3. Can I get a visa on arrival at the airport?
Yes, the majority of the travellers can get a visa on arrival at JRO. Obtain USD cash, a valid passport, and the details of your return ticket home.
4. Where is it more preferable to stay before climbing between Moshi and Arusha?
Moshi is closer to the National Park gates and is ideal for trekkers. Arusha is also larger, offers a greater choice of accommodations, and has better accessibility to safari locations.
