Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Arrival & Travel Tips
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main international gateway for travelers coming to northern Tanzania for safari and mountain adventures.
Whether you are visiting Arusha, Moshi, or heading to Mount Kilimanjaro, knowing what to expect on arrival helps you save time, money and stress.
This guide shares practical arrival and travel tips so your journey starts smoothly with Eddy Tours and Safaris.
Where is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) located?
Kilimanjaro International Airport is located between Arusha and Moshi.
It is the closest international airport to Mount Kilimanjaro, and serves most visitors coming for:
- Kilimanjaro climbing
- Serengeti and Ngorongoro safaris
- Cultural and photography tours
1. Immigration and visa process at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
After landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you go directly to immigration.
Main points to remember:
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
- You will need a visa unless your nationality is visa-exempt.
- You may use online visa approval or apply on arrival.
- Keep your hotel or tour confirmation ready.
The process is normally simple, but queues can be long when several international flights arrive at the same time.
Tip: Have your documents printed as well as saved on your phone.
2. Luggage collection and customs
After immigration at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you collect your luggage and pass through customs.
If you are not carrying restricted items, you simply walk through the green channel.
Avoid packing drones or professional communication equipment without official clearance, as this may cause delays.
3. Currency exchange and ATM access
Inside Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you can:
- exchange a small amount of money
- withdraw Tanzanian shillings using an ATM
Rates inside the airport are usually lower than in town.
Smart tip:
Only exchange enough money for immediate use. You can get better exchange rates later in Arusha or Moshi.
4. SIM cards and mobile internet at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Local SIM cards are sold inside the arrivals area.
You will need:
- your passport
- biometric registration (fingerprint)
Mobile internet is good around the airport and towns, but may be weak inside some parks and remote areas.
5. Transport from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
This is one of the most important travel tips.
You have three main options:
- hotel transfer
- private tour company transfer
- taxi (limited availability and fixed pricing is not guaranteed)
For safety, timing and comfort, pre-arranged transfers are always recommended.
With Eddy Tours and Safaris, your driver will:
- wait for you inside the arrival area
- display your name clearly
- assist with luggage
- take you directly to your hotel
This avoids bargaining and confusion after a long flight.
6. How long does it take to reach your hotel?
From Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO):
- to Arusha town: about 1 hour
- to Moshi town: about 45 minutes
Driving time depends on traffic and weather conditions.
7. Safety and personal security on arrival
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is considered safe for international visitors.
However, follow these simple rules:
- do not accept help from unknown people
- avoid showing large amounts of cash
- only use pre-arranged transfers
- keep your passport secure
Your first contact in Tanzania should always be your tour company representative.
8. Best arrival tip for safari and Kilimanjaro travelers
If you are coming for a safari or mountain trek, it is best to:
- arrive one day before your main activity
- sleep near Arusha or Moshi
This allows you to rest and handle any luggage delays before starting your program.
Eddy Tours and Safaris always plans itineraries with buffer time to avoid rushed departures.
9. Important documents to prepare before landing
Before arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), prepare:
- passport
- visa confirmation (if applicable)
- travel insurance
- tour confirmation
- hotel booking details
Keeping all documents together will make your arrival much faster.
Helpful official travel references
For official airport and aviation information, you may also consult:
- Tanzania Airports Authority
These sources provide neutral and official updates related to airports and operations.
Why arrive with Eddy Tours and Safaris?
Arriving at a new airport can be stressful.
With Eddy Tours and Safaris, your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is organized professionally from the moment you land.
We provide:
- private airport pick-up
- professional English-speaking drivers
- reliable vehicles
- clear communication before your flight
Book your airport transfer and tour with Eddy Tours and Safaris
If you are flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for a safari or Mount Kilimanjaro trip, let us organize your arrival and full travel program.
👉 Contact Eddy Tours and Safaris today to arrange your airport transfer, hotel booking, safari or Kilimanjaro climbing package with a trusted local team.
Your journey in northern Tanzania starts smoothly the moment you land.