Flying in Tanzania: Your Complete Guide to Domestic Flights & Bush Planes

Tanzania offers some of the world's most spectacular flying experiences, from comfortable scheduled flights connecting major destinations to intimate bush plane adventures that offer breathtaking aerial views of the Serengeti's endless plains. Understanding your flight options can transform your safari from a good experience into an unforgettable one.

Scheduled Airlines: Air Tanzania & Precision Air

Air Tanzania, the national carrier, operates domestic routes connecting Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro (JRO), Zanzibar, Mwanza, and other key destinations. With its modern fleet including Airbus A220-300 aircraft, Air Tanzania offers comfortable service and competitive prices, typically ranging from $100-250 USD for domestic sectors. Precision Air also serves major routes and is known for reliable scheduling. Both airlines offer online booking and connect well with international arrivals at Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Bush Flights: The Ultimate Safari Experience

For safari travellers heading to remote destinations like the Serengeti, Ruaha, or Selous, bush flights operated by companies like Coastal Aviation, Safari Airlink, and Auric Air are often the best choice. These small aircraft (typically Cessna Caravans seating 12-14 passengers) land on grass or dirt airstrips right inside the national parks. Flying at low altitudes of 2,000-3,000 feet, you'll witness the landscape unfold below – the Serengeti's wildebeest herds, elephants around Tarangire's baobabs, and the hippo-filled rivers of the Selous. Many guests tell us the bush flight was a highlight of their entire trip.

Understanding the Costs

Bush flights typically cost between $200-500 USD per person per sector depending on the route and season. While this may seem expensive, it's important to understand what's included: you gain precious safari time (a 45-minute flight vs 8+ hours driving), experience unforgettable aerial views, and avoid the fatigue of long road transfers. However, there's an important consideration many travellers overlook: the safari vehicle logistics. When you fly into a park, your safari vehicle and guide must still reach you – either by driving the empty vehicle to meet you (an 'empty run' or 'dead leg'), or by arranging a separate vehicle at your destination. This vehicle positioning can add $200-500 to your overall costs depending on distance.

When Flying Makes Sense

We recommend flying when: you have limited time and want to maximize game viewing days; you're combining distant parks (e.g., Serengeti with Ruaha or Selous); you prefer comfort over the African road adventure; or you want to experience the incredible aerial perspective. Conversely, driving can be wonderful when: you enjoy the journey and changing landscapes; you want flexibility to stop for wildlife along the way; budget is a primary concern; or you're travelling in a group where vehicle costs are shared.

Practical Tips from Experience

Bush flights have strict baggage limits, typically 15-20kg in soft-sided bags only (no hard cases or wheels). Book flights early in peak season (July-October, December-February) as popular routes fill up. Morning flights offer the best views and smoothest air. And don't forget your camera – the window seats offer photography opportunities you won't find anywhere else. We can help you plan the perfect combination of flights and drives to create your ideal Tanzania safari experience.