Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) serves as the main gateway for tourists visiting Tanzania’s northern circuit, the arrival hub for travelers heading to world-renowned destinations such as Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar Island. Conveniently located between the cities of Arusha and Moshi, this airport welcomes adventurers, business travelers, and holidaymakers from across the globe. Below, we provide a detailed guide covering every aspect of Kilimanjaro Airport.
It is a small, single-terminal airport offering basic amenities such as shops, restaurants, ATMs, and currency exchange. Travelers can access transportation through pre-booked private transfers (recommended), on-site taxis, or limited shuttle buses. The airport also provides facilities like a baggage wrapping service, a few boarding gates, and both business and VIP lounges.
Key Information of Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Location: Between Arusha and Moshi, providing direct access to the northern tourism circuit.
- Terminal: A single, smaller terminal building.
- Amenities: Shops, restaurants, cafes, ATMs, and currency exchange services are available.
Arrival Procedures at Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Security: Be prepared for potential queues at the entrance; have your passport and e-ticket ready.
- Baggage: A baggage wrapping service is available for wrapping suitcases in stretch film (payment is in cash).
- Check-in & Boarding: After check-in and baggage drop-off, proceed to the waiting area with access to boarding gates and lounges.
Getting to Your Kilimanjaro International Airport Destination
- Private Transfers: Recommended for convenience; can be arranged through your tour operator.
- Taxis: Available 24/7 at the arrivals area; negotiate the fare beforehand.
- Shuttle Buses: A budget-friendly option but with limited departures.
Best Kilimanjaro International Airport Services
- Shopping: A variety of shops offer electronics, clothing, souvenirs, and last-minute purchases of items like Tanzanite.
- Dining: A restaurant, cafe, and lounge area are available for quick bites or meals.
- Lounges: Business and VIP lounges are accessible in the departure area.
- Baggage Wrapping: A service is available to wrap your luggage in stretch film.
- Visa: You can obtain a visa upon arrival at JRO, but be prepared with the necessary documents and cash for the fee.
The Kilimanjaro Airport Location
Kilimanjaro International Airport is strategically located between Arusha and Moshi, two vibrant towns in northern Tanzania. It sits about 45 kilometers from Arusha (a major safari hub) and 40 kilometers from Moshi (the base town for Kilimanjaro treks). The airport sits along the Arusha–Moshi highway, offering easy access to both cities and connecting routes to national parks. The airport is positioned in the heart of Tanzania’s northern tourism circuit, making it the ideal arrival point for visitors heading straight to the Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, or Mount Meru. The surrounding landscapes are breathtaking, with the airport offering stunning first glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak on clear days.
International Flights to Kilimanjaro Airport
JRO is well-connected internationally, offering direct and connecting flights from major cities worldwide. These international connections make it easy to fly to Kilimanjaro from Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia and North America with minimal transfers. Airlines operating long-haul flights to Kilimanjaro include:
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Amsterdam – JRO, direct)
- Qatar Airways (via Doha)
- Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa)
- Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
- Kenya Airways (via Nairobi)
- RwandAir (via Kigali)
- Condor Airlines (seasonal flights from Frankfurt)
Domestic Flights to Kilimanjaro Airport
For travelers already within Tanzania, Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as a hub for domestic connections. Airlines such as Precision Air, Auric Air, Regional Air Services, Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, ZanAir, and Air Tanzania operate daily flights to:
- Dar es Salaam (DAR) – Tanzania’s largest city and main business hub
- Zanzibar (ZNZ) – Famous for its white sandy beaches and cultural history.
- Serengeti National Park (SEU, Grumeti, Lobo & other airstrips) – Direct safari access.
- Dodoma (DOD) – The country’s political capital.
These domestic flights are particularly useful for safari itineraries, offering seamless travel between the coast, the mountains, and the wildlife-rich plains.
Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival, travelers will undergo immigration and visa processing. Tanzania offers visa-on-arrival services for many nationalities, though e-visas are recommended for faster entry. The airport has a relatively small terminal, which allows for quick movement between immigration, baggage claim, and customs. Transport options on arrival include:
- Airport taxis to Arusha and Moshi
- Private transfers booked through safari operators or hotels
- Shuttle buses running between JRO, Arusha, and Moshi
- Health Requirements: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if arriving from a high-risk country. COVID-19 protocols may also apply depending on current regulations.
- Immigration & Visas: Travelers can obtain a visa on arrival, though applying online in advance via Tanzania’s official e-visa portal is recommended.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
- Customs: Standard customs checks are conducted.
- Declaring large sums of cash or restricted items is mandatory.
- Transport Options: Upon exiting, travelers will find taxis, shuttle buses, and private transfers waiting. Many safari companies and climbing operators arrange pick-up services directly from the airport.
Most tour companies arrange personal pick-ups, ensuring a smooth transition from arrival to your safari or climb.
Departure from Kilimanjaro Airport
Departing from JRO is straightforward. Passengers should arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights. The airport has a single main terminal with designated check-in counters, security checks, and a departure lounge.
- Check-in Counters: Clearly marked with designated airline staff.
- Security Screening: Standard procedures apply, with checks for liquids and electronics
- Departure Lounge: Offers comfortable seating, duty-free shops, and restaurants.
Duty-free shopping, a small café, and seating areas are available. Travelers should note that while facilities are limited compared to larger international airports, efficiency and friendly service are prioritized.
What’s Available at Kilimanjaro Airport: Extra Services
Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) offers standard amenities like free WiFi, currency exchange, ATMs, shops, restaurants, and a paid parking lot. For enhanced comfort, passengers can access the Twiga Lounge by Aspire with food, drinks, showers, and business facilities. Various VIP services are available, including meet and greet, fast-track immigration, luggage assistance, and porter services, which can be arranged through booking services like or Vip Escape. Transportation services, including taxis, shuttle buses, and private transfers, are also available for getting to and from the airport. While not as large as major international hubs, Kilimanjaro Airport offers a range of facilities and services:
Currency Exchange & ATMs – Available in both arrival and departure halls.
Duty-Free Shops – Selling liquor, tobacco, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Restaurants & Cafés – Serving local and international dishes, along with coffee and refreshments.
Wi-Fi – Available in certain areas, though coverage may vary.
Car Rental Services – Several agencies operate directly from the airport.
Medical Assistance – Basic medical facilities are available for emergencies
Lost & Found – A designated desk to report lost items.
VIP Lounge – For business travelers and premium passengers seeking a quieter environment.
Though modest compared to global mega-airports, JRO provides all the essentials for a convenient start or end to your Tanzanian journey.
History of Kilimanjaro Airport
Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) opened in December 1971 after its construction was financed by the Italian government and was built as a key gateway to Tanzania’s northern tourism circuit. It was famously privatized in 1998, becoming the first international airport in Africa to do so, a status held by KADCO, though it is government-owned. Years of expansion and upgrades followed, including a significant renovation program in 2003 and a major €37 million project in 2015 that added new terminals, taxiways, and runway safety improvements, with additional domestic funding allocated in 2024 for more renovations and a new VIP lounge. Today, it handles over 700,000 passengers annually and is a crucial link for Tanzania’s safari tourism industry.
How to Get to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
To get to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you can fly direct to JRO from major European and Gulf hubs like Amsterdam (KLM) or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), or fly into a connecting hub like Nairobi (NBO), Kenya, and then take a short domestic flight or a bus to JRO. Once at JRO, you can reach your final destination in nearby cities like Moshi or Arusha via taxi, shuttle, rental car, or private transfer. There are several ways to reach JRO:
- Road: From Arusha (45–60 minutes) and Moshi (40–50 minutes) via paved highways.
- Shuttle buses: Daily services operate between JRO, Arusha, and Moshi.
- Private transfer: Safari operators often include airport pick-ups/drop-offs.
- Domestic flight: Travelers can connect from other Tanzanian airports to JRO.
Top Activities and Things to Do Nearby from Kilimanjaro International Airport
Top activities near Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) include the Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Plantation Tour, a visit to the scenic Kikuletwa Hot Springs (Chemka), and cultural experiences at the Olpopongi Maasai Cultural Village. You can also explore the Moshi region for bike tours and city walks, take a day trip to Arusha National Park for canoeing and crater walks, or even embark on a day hike on Mount Kilimanjaro. Travelers arriving at JRO can quickly access some of Tanzania’s most iconic attractions:
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro – the Roof of Africa
Safari in Serengeti National Park – home to the Great Migration
Explore Ngorongoro Crater – a UNESCO World Heritage site
Visit Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks – famous for elephants and tree-climbing lions
Cultural tours in Moshi and Arusha – experience local markets, coffee plantations, and Maasai villages
Day trips to waterfalls and hot springs near Moshi
What is the Closest City to Kilimanjaro Airport?
The two closest cities are Moshi and Arusha. Moshi is closer (40 km) and serves as the base town for Kilimanjaro treks. Arusha (46 km) is considered the safari capital, offering accommodations, restaurants, and safari company headquarters.
How Do I Get to Kilimanjaro from the USA?
To reach Kilimanjaro from the USA, fly from a major U.S. airport to a European or Middle Eastern hub like Amsterdam, Doha, or Istanbul. From there, catch a connecting flight on airlines like KLM, Qatar Airways, or Turkish Airlines to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). There are no direct flights from the United States to JRO, so a multi-leg journey is necessary. There are no direct flights from the USA to JRO. However, American travelers can fly via:
- Amsterdam with KLM
- Doha with Qatar Airways
- Istanbul with Turkish Airlines
- Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines
Popular departure cities include New York (JFK), Atlanta, Chicago, and Washington D.C. with one or two layovers before arriving at JRO.
Lounges of Kilimanjaro Airport: Standard, Business, and VIP
Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) features various lounges, including the Twiga Lounge by Aspire (a business lounge accessible to all passengers via a fee or membership programs like Priority Pass), and a dedicated VIP Lounge for a premium experience with personalized meet-and-greet services, private facilities, and priority handling for an additional cost. There isn’t a separately named “Standard” lounge; instead, a general waiting area provides basic facilities, and access to the Twiga Lounge or VIP services offers a standard upgrade. JRO offers different lounges for travelers:
- Standard Lounge: Comfortable seating with basic refreshments.
- Business Lounge: Enhanced services, Wi-Fi, workstations, snacks, and beverages.
- VIP Lounge: Private space with premium service, luxury seating, and priority boarding.
These lounges provide much-needed relaxation, especially for long-haul travelers.
How Do I Get to Kilimanjaro from Asia?
To reach Kilimanjaro from Asia, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania, likely with a layover in a major hub like Doha (with Qatar Airways), Istanbul (with Turkish Airlines), or Addis Ababa (with Ethiopian Airlines), or use a cheaper flight to Nairobi (NBO) in Kenya and take a shuttle bus or transfer to Arusha or Moshi. From the airport, take a short transfer to the towns of Moshi or Arusha, which serve as the starting points for Kilimanjaro treks. Travelers from Asia can reach Kilimanjaro through connecting flights:
- Qatar Airways via Doha
- Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
- Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa
- Kenya Airways via Nairobi
Popular departure cities include Delhi, Mumbai, Bangkok, Beijing, and Tokyo, with one or two stopovers.
How Do I Get to Kilimanjaro from Europe?
To reach Kilimanjaro from Europe, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) via a connecting flight from a major European hub like Amsterdam (KLM), Paris (Air France), or Zurich (Edelweiss Air). Alternatively, fly into a major African hub like Nairobi, Kenya (NBO) or Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (ADD) and then take a domestic flight or bus to the Kilimanjaro region. Europe enjoys some of the most convenient routes to Kilimanjaro. Options include:
- Direct flights from Amsterdam with KLM
- Seasonal direct flights from Frankfurt with Condor Airlines
- Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa
London, Paris, Rome, and Madrid also offer easy connections via Amsterdam or Istanbul.
How Do I Get to Kilimanjaro from South America?
To travel from South America to Kilimanjaro, you must first book a flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania, typically with one or more connecting flights through a major European or African hub city like Amsterdam (KLM), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines). Once at JRO, arrange a taxi or shuttle to your lodging in the nearby towns of Moshi or Arusha, which are the main departure points for Kilimanjaro expeditions. There are no direct flights from South America to Kilimanjaro. However, travelers can connect via:
- São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro to Europe (Amsterdam/Frankfurt), then onward to JRO.
- Via Middle East hubs such as Doha or Istanbul.
Brazil, Argentina, and Chile are common starting points for travelers heading to Tanzania.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) on the map
The Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is conveniently located between Arusha (45 km) and Moshi (40 km) in northern Tanzania. Positioned on the map near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, it serves as the main gateway to Tanzania’s top attractions, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for both international and domestic travelers, offering seamless connections for safaris, mountain treks, and beach holidays.
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Final Thoughts on Kilimanjaro International Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport is more than just a transit point—it is the gateway to unforgettable adventures. From its strategic location between Arusha and Moshi to its international and domestic flight connections, the airport plays a pivotal role in welcoming travelers from around the globe. Whether you are arriving to climb the Roof of Africa, embark on a Big Five safari, or relax on Zanzibar’s beaches, JRO ensures your journey begins and ends smoothly.
