Flights To Tanzania

Flight Time and Distance to Tanzania: How Long is the Journey?

Flights from London to Tanzania usually involve a stopover, as direct services are currently rare. The journey typically takes around 11 to 14 hours depending on the connection, covering approximately 4,600 miles (≈7,400 km). For example, a flight from London Heathrow (LHR) to Dar es Salaam (DAR) via Amsterdam or Doha usually takes around 12–13 hours. Flights to Zanzibar (for safaris) and Kilimanjaro often use similar routes. Keep in mind that flight times vary by routing—connecting itineraries via Nairobi or Addis Ababa are also popular.

*Times and distances are approximate and depend on aircraft type, routing and winds.

Top Airlines for Tanzania Flights: Best Carriers and Connections

Several major carriers operate flights between the UK and Tanzania. The main airlines are:

• KLM – A popular choice for safari-goers, offering flights from UK regional airports via Amsterdam directly to Kilimanjaro and Dar es Salaam. Their service is reliable, and the schedule is optimised for tourist arrivals.

• Qatar Airways – Connects via Doha with flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. Known for the “World’s Best Business Class” (Q-suite) and excellent economy service with generous legroom.

• Ethiopian Airlines – Offers frequent connections via Addis Ababa. It is often one of the most affordable options and has the most extensive network in Africa, flying to all three major Tanzanian airports.

• Kenya Airways – Connects via Nairobi. This is a great option if you are combining a trip to Kenya and Tanzania. The short hop from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro offers stunning views of the mountain.

• Turkish Airlines – Connects via Istanbul to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. They are known for competitive pricing and delicious onboard catering.

When comparing flights, look at total journey time and stopover duration. While there are no direct flights from the UK at present, one-stop routes via Amsterdam or the Middle East are very efficient.

Travel in Style: Economy and Business Class to Tanzania

Flying long-haul to East Africa can be comfortable if you pick the right cabin:

• Economy – Perfect for budget‑conscious travellers. Seat pitch is generally around 31–32 inches. On flights with Qatar Airways and KLM, meals, soft drinks, and wine are complimentary.

• Business Class – If comfort is key, business cabins (e.g. Qatar Q-suite, KLM World Business Class) provide flat‑bed seats, luxurious bedding, and access to airport lounges. This is highly recommended if you plan to start a physically demanding safari or climb immediately upon arrival.

Baggage Allowance for Tanzania Flights: Luggage Rules and Limits

Baggage rules vary by airline. Below is a general guide for popular carriers:

*Airlines may change their policies; always check your e‑ticket for the most up‑to‑date rules.

Important: If you are taking a small charter flight (bush plane) to parks like the Serengeti or Selous, strict baggage limits apply—usually 15kg total in soft-sided bags only. Hard-shell suitcases are often not allowed.

Best Time to Fly to Tanzania: Finding the Cheapest Flight Months

Tanzania’s climate dictates the safari seasons, which in turn affects flight prices:

• June–October (Dry Season) – This is the peak safari season. The Great Migration is in the Serengeti, and weather is cool and dry. Flights and lodges are at their most expensive.

• December–February (Calving Season) – Another peak time, especially for seeing baby animals in the Southern Serengeti. Prices are high around Christmas.

• March–May (Long Rains) – This is the low season. Heavy rains make some roads impassable, but the landscapes are lush green. Flight prices and accommodation rates are at their lowest (often 30-40% cheaper).

• November (Short Rains) – A “shoulder season” with occasional showers. Good for finding flight deals before the December rush.

For the cheapest flight deals, avoid the July–August European summer holidays and consider travelling in November or early December.

Tanzania Weather Guide: Forecasts and Packing Tips

• Northern Parks (Serengeti/Ngorongoro) – High altitude means mornings and nights are chilly (10–15°C). Days are warm. Pack layers: a fleece for game drives and light clothes for midday.

• The Coast & Zanzibar – Hot and humid year-round (28–32°C). Pack swimwear, loose cotton clothing, and sandals.

• Mount Kilimanjaro – Temperatures range from tropical at the base to arctic (-15°C) at the summit. Specialised thermal gear is essential.

• General tips: The equatorial sun is very strong; use high‑SPF sunscreen. Tsetse flies (in Tarangire/Serengeti) are attracted to dark blue and black, so wear neutral colours like khaki or beige.

Discover Tanzanian Culture: Local Traditions, Cuisine, and History

Tanzania is a union of Tanganyika (mainland) and Zanzibar. It is home to over 120 ethnic groups, yet remains one of the most peaceful countries in Africa.

• Language – Swahili (Kiswahili) is the national language. Learning a few phrases like Jambo (Hello) and Asante (Thank you) goes a long way.

• The Maasai – One of the most famous tribes, known for their red shuka robes and jumping dances. Cultural visits to Maasai Bomas are popular.

• Zanzibar Heritage – A mix of African, Arab, Indian, and Persian influences. Stone Town is famous for its carved wooden doors and winding alleys.

Tanzanian cuisine is simple but filling. Must‑try dishes include:

• Ugali – A stiff maize porridge, the national staple, eaten with hands and served with stew or greens.

• Nyama Choma – Grilled meat (usually goat or beef), synonymous with social gatherings.

• Chipsi Mayai – A “french fry omelette” street food found everywhere.

• Zanzibar Pizza – A unique mix of dough, minced meat, veggies, cheese, and egg, fried crisp on a griddle.

• Pilau – Rice spiced with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger, reflecting the spice trade history.

• Mshikaki – Marinated skewered meat grilled over charcoal.

Major Airports in Tanzania: Your Guide to International Gateways

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) (DAR) – The main commercial hub. Best for business travellers or those heading to the Southern Circuit (Selous/Ruaha).

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – The gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit. Located between Arusha and Moshi, it is the best airport for climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting the Serengeti.

• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) (ZNZ) – Serves the island of Zanzibar. A new international terminal has recently improved the arrival experience for tourists.

Top Attractions in Tanzania: Must‑Visit Places and Landmarks

• Serengeti National Park – Famous for the annual Great Migration of 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras.

• Mount Kilimanjaro – The “Roof of Africa” and the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

• Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage site and volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife, including the rare black rhino.

• Zanzibar (Stone Town & Beaches) – Explore historic spice markets, swim with turtles in Nungwi, or relax on Paje beach.

• Tarangire National Park – Known for its massive herds of elephants and iconic Baobab trees.

• Lake Manyara – Famous for tree-climbing lions and flocks of flamingos.

• Mafia Island – A quieter alternative to Zanzibar, known for whale shark swimming (Oct–Feb).

Where to Stay: Best Hotels and Luxury Accommodation in Tanzania

Tanzania offers incredible accommodation, from tented camps to beach resorts:

Expert Tanzania Travel Tips: Pro Hacks for a Smooth Journey

• Visa Requirements – Most visitors need a visa. The Tanzania eVisa can be applied for online before travel (approx. $50 USD). Processing takes about 10 days.

• Yellow Fever – You may be asked for a Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from a country with risk of transmission (e.g., Kenya). It’s best to carry it.

• Currency – The currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, US Dollars (printed after 2013) are widely accepted for visas, hotels, and safari tips.

• Plastic Ban – Tanzania has a strict ban on single-use plastic bags. Do not pack them; use reusable cloth bags. Ziploc bags for toiletries are generally tolerated if you take them back with you.

• Tipping – Tipping is expected in the tourism industry. Approx. $10–$15 per guest per day for safari guides is standard.