How To Get Around In Tanzania

Flying - The Quick Way to Explore Tanzania

Flying is the fastest way to Get Around Tanzania, perfect for saving time or avoiding long road trips. Doesn’t matter if you're heading to a far-off safari or checking out Tanzania's beautiful islands, taking a plane is quick and gives you a great view from above.

Main Airports

Tanzania has three big airports: Julius Nyerere in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro Airport, and Abeid Amani Karume in Zanzibar. These Tanzania Airports have flights to and from other parts of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, making it easy to start your adventure.

Local Flights

Airlines like Air Tanzania and Coastal Aviation fly from big cities to places like Arusha and Zanzibar, where many tourists like to go.

Direct to Safari

Some fancy safari lodges have their own small airports. Small planes can take you right there, which is often included in your Tanzania Safari Cost.

Packing Tips

If you're flying to small places, pack light—about 15kg—and use soft bags. This is because many charter airlines have a baggage allowance of 15 kg per passenger.

Flying in Tanzania helps you skip long drives and gives you more time to enjoy the beautiful sights and wildlife.

Exploring Tanzania by 4WD: A Guide to Self-Driving Safaris

Renting a 4WD is an excellent choice for travellers wanting to explore Tanzania at their own pace. With a vast network of roads stretching over 90,000 km, driving yourself allows for an intimate and flexible travel experience. However, it's worth noting only 15% of these roads are paved.

Road Conditions

Most of Tanzania's roads outside major towns are unpaved. Renting a 4WD ensures you can handle rough terrains comfortably.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Try and opt for a Land Cruiser or similar Tanzania Safari Vehicle. These are well-suited for the varied Tanzanian landscape and offer better navigation over potholed roads.

Local Expertise

Hiring a local driver can enhance your journey. Drivers often double as tour guides, providing valuable insights and ensuring safer travel.

Rental Details

In cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, daily rental rates start at US$50 for basic cars and US$150 for a 4WD. This fee does not typically include insurance or driver costs, which can be an additional US$30 to US$50 per day.

Licensing

A driver’s license from your home country is acceptable if it's in English. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit is required.

Travel Tips

Equip your vehicle with necessary camping gear for overnight stays in national parks, and avoid nighttime driving to steer clear of wildlife and unsafe road conditions.

Going for Tanzania Self-Drive Safaris is a unique way to see the country, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes. With the right vehicle and a bit of local knowledge, you can create a tailored safari that fits your pace and preferences, giving you the freedom to explore Tanzania's rich safari routes and breathtaking natural beauty.

Using Taxis and Ride-Shares in Tanzania

Taxis and ride-shares are great options for Getting Around Tanzania within cities or for airport transfers. Services like Uber make it easy to hop between popular spots or head from the hotel to the airport. Some important points to know here are:

• Taxis are easy to find at airports, bus and train stations, and shopping centres in major cities.
• Tanzanian taxis are white or have white license plates, and can be hailed from the roadside or arranged by your hotel.
• Many hotels and lodges offer shuttle services for airport transfers and other transport needs. As we have already said, Uber is also available in Tanzania which provides a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
• Taxi in Tanzania are not metered, so always agree on a price before your trip. Fare lists at airports in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar can help guide pricing.

Taxis and ride-shares are simple and reliable ways to navigate cities and airports during your Safari in Tanzania, making your journey smooth and stress-free.

Travel around Tanzania by Buses

Taking the bus is a cheap way to travel around Tanzania. It's perfect for those watching their budget and wanting to see different parts of the country. Buses go almost everywhere in Tanzania, from big cities to smaller towns, and even to other countries.

• Buses run from the John Magufuli Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam to everywhere in Tanzania.
• You can choose from simple buses to nicer ones with air conditioning and toilets.
• Buses stop often for food and bathroom breaks, which is helpful on long trips.
• You can take a bus from Tanzania to places like Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
• The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system makes getting around the city quicker by using special bus lanes.

When coming for Tanzania Safari Holidays, buy your bus tickets on the third floor of the John Magufuli Bus Terminal to avoid paying extra to touts. The terminal also has food and shops, so you can grab a snack and relax while you wait.