How to get to Dar
So, you’ve considering joining us in Tanzania?! We can’t wait!
Now comes the question: how to get there?
There are several airlines flying from Europe and other international destinations to Dar es Salaam (DAR), and the best option will depend on:
where you’re travelling from
how long you’re happy to spend in transit
and what time you’d like to arrive.
Getting to Dar es Salaam:
Some airlines offering routes to Dar es Salaam include:
KLM – via Amsterdam
Ethiopian Airlines – via Addis Ababa
Qatar Airways – via Doha
Turkish Airlines – via Istanbul
Emirates – via Dubai
There are probably also other routes and airlines available depending on where you are travelling from, so it’s worth comparing a few options.
Your arrival time:
One thing to consider when comparing flights is what time you will actually arrive in Dar.
Arrival times can change depending on the route and season, but as a rough guide, some current routes arrive around:
Turkish Airlines: around 03:00
KLM: around 22:00 - 23:00
Emirates: around 13:00 - 14:00
An afternoon arrival can give you time to check in, eat something and settle in before the evening. A late-night or very early-morning arrival is also perfectly manageable, depending on your hotel or airbnb booking. There are also taxis available at the airport.
Your layover:
There is no single "best" route to Tanzania, since its about your preference. Some flights have relatively short connections, while others involve a longer layover.
If you don't mind spending a few extra hours in transit, a longer layover can sometimes make the journey considerably cheaper and may even give you an opportunity to spend a little time in another city along the way.
Don't forget your visa
Most visitors travelling to Tanzania will need a visa. We recommend sorting this out before you travel, so that one less thing needs to be dealt with when you arrive.
Tanzania offers an eVisa application, for anyone wanting to apply online before the trip. Remember to check the requirements for your nationality before applying.
It’s also possible for travellers to obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. Waiting times at immigration can vary depending on how many international flights have arrived around the same time and how many people are getting their visa upon arrival.
For this reason, we'd recommend getting your visa in advance where possible.
One last thing: visa rules and fees can change, so please check the latest requirements before travelling.
Once you arrive
Dar es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport is about 10–15 km from the city centre, but the journey can take considerably longer depending on traffic. Dar traffic is legendary, be warned and have snacks ;)
We'll share more info about getting from the airport to your accommodation and getting around Dar in another post.
For now, the main thing is to look at flights that works best for you and your budget. Whether you choose a short connection, a long layover, an afternoon arrival or a late-night adventure, we'll be here waiting for you when you get to Dar.
Karibu — we can't wait to welcome you home.
