How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro

How to Get to Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro (Kili) is a large dormant volcano situated in East Africa, in the North of Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border. It stands within Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. It is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain above sea level in the world, Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level and 4,900 m (16,100 ft) above its plateau base. It is also the highest volcano in the Eastern Hemisphere and the fourth most prominent peak on Earth.

Reaching the “Roof of Africa” is easier than you might think. 

Mount Kilimanjaro is served by its own international airport, making access straightforward from major hubs in Europe, the Middle East, and the USA.

Here is everything you need to know about booking your flights and arriving in Tanzania.

The Best Option: Fly Directly to Kilimanjaro (JRO)

The most convenient way to start your trek is to fly directly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This airport is situated just 45 minutes from the towns of Moshi and Arusha, the starting points for all climbs.Major Airlines Flying to JRO:
  • KLM: Direct flights from Amsterdam (AMS). This is often the preferred choice for travelers from Europe and North America (via connection).
  • Qatar Airways: Flights via Doha (DOH). Excellent connections for travelers from Asia, Australia, and the UK.
  • Turkish Airlines: Flights via Istanbul (IST). A great option for connectivity across Europe.
  • Ethiopian Airlines: Flights via Addis Ababa (ADD). Extensive network connecting the USA and Europe.
  • Kenya Airways: Flights via Nairobi (NBO).
💡 Pro Tip: If you can, book a flight that lands in the afternoon or evening. This gives you a full night’s rest at your hotel before your briefing and gear check the next morning.

Quick Reference: Airline Guide

AirlineHubBest For...
KLMAmsterdamUSA & Europe Travelers
Qatar AirwaysDohaUK, Asia & Australia Travelers
Turkish AirlinesIstanbulEurope Travelers
Ethiopian AirlinesAddis AbabaBudget-conscious & USA Travelers
Precision AirDar es Salaam / ZanzibarDomestic Connections

Alternative: Fly via Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar

If you are planning to visit the beaches of Zanzibar before your climb, or if you find a significantly cheaper fare, you can fly into Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Zanzibar (ZNZ).

From there, you can take a short domestic flight to Kilimanjaro (JRO). These flights are frequent, safe, and offer stunning views of the mountain as you approach.

  • Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour.

Domestic Airlines: Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation.

The Budget Option: Arriving via Nairobi, Kenya

Some travelers choose to fly into Nairobi (NBO) in Kenya, as fares can sometimes be lower. From Nairobi, you have two options to reach Kilimanjaro:

  1. Connecting Flight (Recommended): Book a short 50-minute flight from NBO to JRO (Kenya Airways or Precision Air). This is the fastest and most comfortable method.
  2. Shuttle Bus (Budget): You can take a shuttle bus from Nairobi airport to Moshi.
    • Duration: 6–7 hours.

Note: This involves crossing the Namanga land border, which can be time-consuming. You will also need a Transit Visa for Kenya. We generally recommend flying to save energy for your climb.

Arrival & Transfers: We’ll Be Waiting for You

  1. Once you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), the hard work is over.
    • Meet & Greet: As you exit the arrivals hall, look for a driver holding a sign with your name or the KilimanjaroJoy.Travel logo.
    • The Drive: We will transfer you directly to your hotel in Moshi (approx. 45 minutes).
    • Relax: Use this time to relax, check in, and recover from your flight. We will meet you later for your pre-climb briefing.
    Day Trip accomodation: “Pre-Climb” walk to Marangu Waterfalls can be the perfect bridge between the traveler’s home world and the mountain world.