Kilimanjaro International  Airport (KIA), located in Arusha, Tanzania, is a key gateway to northern Tanzania and serves both domestic and international flights. It is a vital hub for travelers heading to popular safari destinations in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. 

Here’s an in-depth review of Arusha Airport, focusing on various aspects of my travel experience. This blog is solely based on a national trip from Arusha to Zanzibar.

I will briefly mention Zanzibar international airport at the end.

Accessibility and Transportation to the Kilimanjaro International  Airport

Arusha Airport is conveniently situated about 10 kilometers from Arusha’s city center. Here’s how you can get to and from the airport:

– Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport, offering a direct and convenient way to reach the city or nearby lodges and safari parks. It’s a good idea to negotiate the fare or use a metered taxi. 

– Shuttle Services: Some hotels and safari operators provide shuttle services to and from the airport. Confirm this with your accommodation beforehand. 

For me, l was dropped off by the safari agency. It was really convenient because the airport is not located beside the main road where one can easily walk.

– Car Rentals: Car rental services are available at the airport, allowing travelers to explore the region independently. I didn’t inquire about this but given the thousads of tourists who come to Tanzania regularly, l think it’s possible.

Facilities and Services

Arusha Airport is relatively small. It was a tiny building with only one 1 floor, but it  offers essential facilities and services:

– Dining: There are limited dining options at the airport. Travelers can find basic snacks and beverages, but options are minimal compared to larger airports. I was expecting to see more dining facilities. I recommend you eat before going there like we did.

– Shopping: The shopping facilities are basic, with a few souvenir shops and kiosks offering essential items. I didn’t have time to explore in detail because l arrived a few minutes before my flight.

– Banking Services: Limited banking services are available, with a few ATMs for cash withdrawals. I recall seeing only two stations. It’s advisable to bring dollars from anywhere and exchange them into Tanzania shillings.

– Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available, but connectivity can be inconsistent.  I had a local SIM card so it’s advisable to have a local SIM card or offline entertainment if you need reliable internet access.

Check-In and Security at KIA

– Check-In: The check-in process at Arusha Airport is generally smooth, though it can be busy during peak travel times.  Peak travel periods are the holidays. There are check-in counters for various airlines, and the process is straightforward. Most of them are located directly in the main hall, so l identified it within minutes.

As for Air Tanzania Airline, make sure that you check the weight limit when you buy your ticket. My sister and l had a serious unexpected situation we could have avoided if she had checked that detail beforehand . We were compelled to pay more than a hundred dollars extra for what they termed extra luggage. Apparently the planes going to Zanzibar are very small, therefore the limit for luggage is reduced to accommodate more passengers.

It felt like a big bus with very tiny seats and only two lines for each corner. The flight was short so it didn’t feel stressful.

We were served a cup of juice and a tiny sachet of nuts as snacks.

–Security: Security procedures are standard and efficient. While the airport is not as large as major international hubs, security measures are in place to ensure passenger safety. Before every passenger entered the airport, there were security guards at the main doors checking and scanning luggage. I felt very safe.

Lounge and Waiting Areas at the Arusha International  Airport

– Lounge: Arusha Airport does not have dedicated lounges. Waiting areas are basic, with seating that can become crowded during peak times. I remember seeing a few available spots in a tiny hall with not very comfortable chairs.

– Comfort: The general waiting areas are functional but lack amenities. Travelers might need to be patient if the airport is busy.

Cleanliness and Maintenance

The airport is generally clean and well-maintained. However, due to its smaller size, the facilities might not be as modern as those in larger airports. Regular cleaning is carried out, but occasional maintenance issues may arise. I noticed some corners with dust and slight moisture. I think it’s also a very old airport.

Customer Service

Customer service at Kilimanjaro International  Airport is generally helpful and polite. Staff members assist with inquiries and provide information about flights and services. However, as with many smaller airports, staff may be more limited in number and experience. The few who spoke were very polite and welcoming.

Baggage Handling

Baggage handling at Kilimanjaro International  Airport is generally reliable. However, during busy times, there might be occasional delays. It’s advisable to keep valuable items in your carry-on luggage and monitor the baggage claim area for your belongings.

Zanzibar International Airport 

Zanzibar is sometimes considered as a different part of mainland Tanzania. This means, landing there, you’ll be expected to show your visa regardless of whether you have been to other parts of the country. I remember filing the small immigration form, showing my visa and yellow fever card. It was easy to go out daily because this airport is as tiny as the Arusha one. 

It had only a single ground level with everything easy to find.  I don’t recall seeing any dining inside except for the baggage pickup and control areas. However, outside there was a big parking lot with many cars heading to the center of the Island city. 

There was also an atm machine at this parking lot area, l was able to withdraw money from there with my international bank card.

Conclusion

Arusha Airport serves as a crucial gateway for travelers heading to northern Tanzania’s renowned safari destinations. While it may not offer the extensive amenities of larger airports, it provides essential services with a convenient location and generally efficient operations. For travelers planning to explore Tanzania’s wildlife and natural beauty, Arusha Airport offers a functional and accessible entry point to their adventures.

I was in Kilimanjaro in September 2022. Please let me know if you have been there. What is your experience now?

If you want to know about other airports around the world, check out this link.

Here’s the website of KIA and some thousands of Google reviews online.