How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro: Flights, Trains, and Road Travel
This practical guide explains how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro using the three main transport options: flights, trains and road travel.
If you are planning a trek with Eddy Tours and Safaris, understanding how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro helps you arrive on time, avoid unnecessary connections and reduce travel stress.
Your final destination is Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northern Tanzania, close to the towns of Moshi and Arusha.
Why It Is Important to Know How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro
Many travellers focus only on choosing a climbing route and forget the logistics of arrival.
Learning how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro helps you:
- choose the correct international airport
- avoid long and unnecessary road transfers
- connect smoothly to your hotel or trek briefing
- start your climb well rested
How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro by Flight
The easiest and most popular way when planning how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro is flying into
Kilimanjaro International Airport.
This airport is located between Moshi and Arusha and is the main entry point for international trekkers.
Most international travellers reach this airport by connecting through:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport in
Dar es Salaam
From Dar es Salaam, you take a short domestic flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
This is the fastest and most comfortable option when organising how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro.
After arrival, Eddy Tours and Safaris arranges your private transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Good to know
- Kilimanjaro International Airport serves both Moshi and Arusha
- Arrival formalities are usually fast
- Most climbers use this airport
This is the recommended method when you ask professionals how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro.
How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro by Road (Bus or Private Vehicle)
Road travel is a common option if you are already inside Tanzania.
You normally travel by road from:
- Arusha to Moshi
- or from Dar es Salaam to Moshi or Arusha
Typical road travel patterns when planning how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro are:
- Arusha to Moshi – short and easy drive
- Dar es Salaam to Moshi – long full-day journey
Public buses are available, but for comfort and safety, Eddy Tours and Safaris recommends private transfers, especially if you are arriving with trekking luggage.
Road travel is useful if you are combining a safari before your climb and want a smooth connection to your mountain program.
Important road travel advice
- allow enough buffer time before your trek
- avoid night driving
- choose reliable transport providers
Road transport remains a practical solution when learning how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro from other regions of Tanzania.
How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro by Train
Train travel is the least used option when planning how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro, but it is still possible in part.
At the moment:
- there is no direct train line to Moshi
- trains mainly operate between Dar es Salaam and other central regions
If you use a train:
- you must still connect by road to reach Moshi or Arusha
- total travel time becomes much longer
For visitors on limited schedules, train travel is generally not recommended for how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Which Town Should You Stay in Before Climbing?
Most climbers stay in:
- Moshi – closer to the mountain and very calm
- Arusha – better for safari combinations and international hotels
Both towns are good bases when organising how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Eddy Tours and Safaris arranges hotel bookings and transfers based on your arrival point and climbing route.
How Eddy Tours and Safaris Handles Your Arrival
Once you have decided how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro, Eddy Tours and Safaris supports you with:
- airport pick-up at Kilimanjaro International Airport
- road transfers from Arusha or Moshi
- hotel check-in assistance
- clear briefing before your trek
We make sure your travel connects smoothly with your mountain schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro
Avoid these mistakes:
- booking flights to the wrong city without checking road distance
- arriving late at night without pre-arranged transfers
- underestimating long road travel times
- planning train travel as your main connection
These problems are common for travellers who do not research how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro properly.
Frequently Asked Questions – How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro
What is the best airport for Mount Kilimanjaro?
The best airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, located between Moshi and Arusha.
Can I reach Mount Kilimanjaro directly from Dar es Salaam?
Yes. You can fly from Dar es Salaam to Kilimanjaro International Airport or travel by road. Flying is much faster.
Is train travel recommended for reaching Mount Kilimanjaro?
No. Train services do not reach Moshi or Arusha directly and require additional long road transfers.
Which is better before climbing – Moshi or Arusha?
Both are suitable. Moshi is closer to the mountain, while Arusha is better if you combine safari and trekking.
Plan Your Kilimanjaro Arrival with Eddy Tours and Safaris
Now that you understand how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro by flight, road and train, you can confidently plan your arrival and climbing schedule.
Contact Eddy Tours and Safaris and let our local team organise your airport transfers, hotel stays and full trekking logistics to Mount Kilimanjaro.