Tanzania Airports Formalities
Arriving in a new country can feel overwhelming, especially after a long international flight. Knowing what to expect at a Tanzanian airport before you land makes the whole process far smoother. This guide walks you through every step, from the moment you step off the plane to the moment you meet your guide in the arrivals hall.
The Two Main International Airports in Tanzania
Most safari travellers arrive at one of two airports. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located between Arusha and Moshi, is the main gateway for the northern safari circuit and Mount Kilimanjaro climbs. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam handles the highest volume of international traffic and serves as a hub for connections to Zanzibar and the southern safari circuit.
Step 1: Public Health Screening
The first stop after leaving the aircraft is the public health port, where all arriving passengers undergo a brief health screening. Officers check for symptoms of infectious diseases, including elevated body temperature, which is assessed using thermal scanning equipment.
You may be asked additional questions if you show any signs of illness such as fever, persistent cough, or gastrointestinal symptoms. Travellers showing symptoms consistent with a notifiable disease may be referred for further assessment before being allowed to proceed to immigration.
COVID-19 Entry Requirements
As of February 2023, Tanzania removed all COVID-19 entry requirements for incoming travellers. You do not need to present a negative PCR test result, proof of vaccination, or any COVID-19 related documentation to enter Tanzania or Zanzibar. This policy remains in effect and applies to all nationalities.
Yellow Fever Requirements
Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease found in tropical regions of Africa and South America. Tanzania classifies itself as a low-risk country for yellow fever, as the virus has not been isolated locally. However, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries considered high-risk for the disease.
If you are travelling to Tanzania directly from Europe, the United States, or other low-risk countries, you do not need a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter.
If you are transiting through a yellow fever high-risk country for 12 hours or more before arriving in Tanzania, you will be required to show proof of vaccination. The yellow fever vaccine is given as a single dose and must be administered at least 10 days before your travel date. A single dose provides lifelong protection.
For the current official list of high-risk countries, refer to the Tanzania Ministry of Health website or consult your travel health clinic before departure.
Malaria
Tanzania does not impose any malaria-related entry requirements on travellers. However, malaria is present in parts of the country, and travellers are strongly advised to consult a doctor before departure regarding appropriate anti-malarial prophylaxis. Taking preventive medication, using insect repellent, and wearing protective clothing during dawn and dusk are the most effective precautions.
Step 2: Passport Control and Immigration
After health screening, proceed to the immigration hall and join the queue for your category, either residents, non-residents, or diplomats, as directed by airport signage.
Present your passport and any supporting travel documents to the immigration officer. If you applied for a Tanzania e-visa in advance, you will be directed to the visa holder lane, which moves considerably faster than the standard queue. An official visa sticker will be placed in your passport at the immigration desk.
If you did not apply for an e-visa in advance, you can obtain a visa on arrival at this stage. Make sure you have the correct cash amount ready: USD 50 for most nationalities and USD 100 for US citizens. Card payments are not accepted at the immigration counter.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Tanzania. Immigration officers will verify this before stamping you through.
Step 3: Baggage Claim
Once you have cleared immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area. Flight information screens will display which carousel your luggage is arriving on. Collect your bags and check them carefully before leaving the area.
If your luggage has been damaged during the flight, report this immediately at the baggage services counter before exiting the baggage hall. If your bag has not arrived, also report this at the same counter. Airlines are responsible for tracing and delivering delayed baggage, and your report must be filed before you leave the airport.
Step 4: Arrivals Hall
After collecting your luggage, you will pass through customs and exit into the arrivals hall. Your Kiwoito Africa Safaris guide will be waiting for you here, holding a sign with your name. From this point, your Tanzania adventure begins.
If you experience any delays at immigration or baggage claim, do not worry. Your guide will wait for you regardless of how long the process takes.
Useful Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Keep your travel documents accessible throughout the process. This includes your passport, printed e-visa confirmation, yellow fever certificate if required, and your safari itinerary. Having these ready speeds up each stage considerably.
If you are arriving on a busy international flight, particularly during peak safari season from June to October, immigration queues can be longer than usual. Travellers with a pre-approved e-visa move through noticeably faster than those obtaining a visa on arrival.
Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available in the arrivals area if you need Tanzanian shillings or US dollars for immediate expenses.
Ready for Your Safari?
Once you walk out of that arrivals hall, everything you planned for is waiting. The Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, your guide knows exactly where to take you next. All you need to do is arrive. Contact us today and let us assist you in your Tanzania travel plans.
