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Book Local Flights in Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Book local flights in Tanzania

Tanzania is vast, and flying is often the quickest way to move between cities, coastal regions and safari parks.

At Alternative Airlines, you can search, compare and book domestic flights across Tanzania in one place. Choose from a range of local airlines, view real-time availability and pay how you want, including flexible options to spread the cost over time.

Alternative Airlines works with trusted Tanzanian airlines such as Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation and Auric Air. This gives you access to routes between Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Dodoma and more, with options to connect directly to safari airstrips and island getaways.

Why book with Alternative Airlines?

Wherever you’re heading, from national parks to the Swahili coast, Alternative Airlines makes booking local flights in Tanzania simpler, faster and more flexible.

A Precision Air plane flying high in the blue sky

Domestic airlines in Tanzania

A number of domestic airlines operate across the country, offering scheduled and charter flights to suit different types of journeys. At Alternative Airlines, you can book with these trusted Tanzanian carriers:

  • Air Tanzania - As the national airline, Air Tanzania runs frequent services between major cities like Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Mwanza and Mbeya. It’s a go-to choice for straightforward domestic routes and business travel.
  • Precision Air - This privately owned airline connects key destinations such as Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Bukoba, with reliable links to the coast and islands. It's well-regarded for its service and extensive domestic reach.
  • Auric Air - A leading safari airline, Auric flies smaller planes to airstrips deep inside Tanzania’s parks and reserves. You can fly directly to places like Serengeti, Ruaha and Mahale, making it ideal for wildlife-focused trips.
  • Coastal Aviation - If you're planning a safari, Coastal is one of the most flexible options. It connects cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha to remote lodges and bush airstrips, with a strong reputation among tour operators.
  • Regional Air - Based in Arusha, Regional Air runs a mix of scheduled and charter flights to iconic safari locations including Grumeti and Tarangire. It's often used by travellers linking up with Kilimanjaro arrivals.
  • Flightlink - This modern domestic airline focuses on connecting Tanzania’s top destinations with daily services between Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Arusha. It also offers scenic flights and regional charters.

All these local airlines in Tanzania (and 600+ others) are available to book through Alternative Airlines. Compare flights, check availability in real time and choose how to pay - it's super simple!

A plane at a gate at Zanzibar Airport in Tanzania

Recommended domestic airports in Tanzania

If you’re flying within Tanzania, these five airports stand out for their connectivity, convenience and access to key destinations:

  • Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) - Tanzania’s busiest airport and the main gateway for domestic flights. Most routes to Zanzibar, Mwanza and the south begin here.
  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) - The ideal airport for travellers heading to Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro or the northern safari circuit. It connects easily with flights to the Serengeti and beyond.
  • Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) - The main airport on Zanzibar Island, ZNZ links the archipelago with the mainland. It’s well-connected and frequently used by locals and tourists alike.
  • Arusha Airport (ARK) - A domestic-only airport located near Arusha town. It’s the jump-off point for safari flights to Seronera, Manyara and other airstrips in northern Tanzania.
  • Seronera Airstrip (SEU) - Located in the heart of Serengeti National Park, this airstrip makes safari access simple. It’s served by airlines like Coastal and Auric, with daily flights from Arusha and Zanzibar.

These airports offer the best coverage for internal flights in Tanzania and are all available to book through Alternative Airlines.

An Airlink safari aircraft

What is a local flight in Tanzania?

A local flight in Tanzania is any flight that starts and ends within the country. Whether you’re flying from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar or Arusha to the Serengeti, your journey stays inside Tanzania’s borders. You won’t go through immigration or need a visa for these flights, but you’ll still need to show valid ID at check-in.

Tips for flying domestically in Tanzania

  • Arrival time: Plan to arrive at the airport or airstrip at least 90 minutes before departure, especially if flying from a smaller terminal or safari strip.
  • Baggage rules: Luggage allowances vary by airline, and safari aircraft often have tighter weight limits. Check your ticket carefully.
  • Documents required: Tanzanian citizens can travel with a national ID. International visitors should carry their passport, even for local flights.
  • Weather considerations: During the rainy seasons, some flights, particularly to remote parks, can be delayed or rescheduled. Morning departures tend to be more reliable.
A tropical white sandy beach in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Why book local flights in Tanzania?

Getting around Tanzania by air can save hours, even days, of overland travel. Roads can be long, bumpy and weather-dependent, especially if you’re heading to remote parks or island destinations. Local flights give you back time and make your journey easier from start to finish.

Reasons to book a domestic flight in Tanzania:

  • Avoid long drives - Skip 8-12 hour road journeys by flying between major hubs like Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Mwanza.
  • Access remote regions - Reach areas like the Serengeti, Ruaha or Zanzibar without relying on unpredictable road connections.
  • Connect to international arrivals - Many local flights are timed to connect with long-haul arrivals into DAR or JRO.
  • Travel in comfort - Domestic aircraft offer a smoother, quicker experience than buses or off-road vehicles.
  • Plan flexibly - Flights run daily between most destinations and can be booked online in advance with multiple payment options.

If you're heading off on safari, visiting family or flying to the coast, local flights are often the best way to travel across Tanzania. With Alternative Airlines, you can compare routes, book in minutes and choose how you want to pay, including options to split the cost!

Ready to book your local flight in Tanzania?

Search and book domestic flights across Tanzania in just a few steps.
With over 600 airlines to choose from, 40+ flexible ways to pay and real support when you need it, Alternative Airlines makes flying around Tanzania simple, secure and friction-free.

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Frequently asked questions

What is considered a local flight in Tanzania?

A local or domestic flight in Tanzania is one that starts and ends within the country. Common routes include Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar, Arusha to Seronera, or Kilimanjaro to Mwanza.

Do I need a passport for domestic flights in Tanzania?

Tanzanian citizens can use a national ID. Foreign travellers should carry a valid passport, even for internal flights, as it's the primary form of identification accepted by most airlines.

Which airlines operate domestic routes in Tanzania?

Local airlines include Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Regional Air and Flightlink. Each one serves a different mix of city routes, remote airstrips and safari connections.

How much luggage can I bring on a local flight?

Baggage policies vary by airline and aircraft size. Safari flights often use smaller planes with strict limits (sometimes as low as 15kg total). Always check your booking for what’s included.

Are internal flights in Tanzania safe?

Yes. Domestic flights in Tanzania are operated by licensed, regulated airlines and follow international safety standards. Most flights are short-haul and operated by experienced local crews.

Can I book local flights online?

Absolutely! Alternative Airlines lets you search, compare and book local flights across Tanzania online. You can filter by route, airline or price, and choose from 40+ payment options, including PayPal, M-Pesa and Buy Now Pay Later.

How early should I arrive for a domestic flight in Tanzania?

Aim to get to the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight. If you're flying from a remote airstrip or small terminal, arriving early ensures time for check-in and aircraft boarding.

Is it better to fly or drive in Tanzania?

Flying saves significant time, especially if you're covering long distances or heading to remote regions. While road travel is possible, it can be slow, weather-affected and tiring.