Nairobi is a major gateway to East Africa, and some travellers end a Kenyan holiday by crossing into northern Tanzania for the Serengeti, Ngorongoro or Kilimanjaro. Others simply find a convenient flight into Nairobi first. This page explains the general idea of travelling between Nairobi and northern Tanzania, what to confirm before you go, and how our Arusha team arranges the Tanzanian side once you arrive on our side of the border.
Two general ways to cross
You can travel between Nairobi and northern Tanzania by road or by air. Road travel is a long day and gives a sense of the landscape, while flying is faster but depends on schedules and baggage rules.
We do not state border post names, times or flight details here, because they change. Please confirm current border rules, entry requirements and any health paperwork with official sources before you travel.
If you cross by road, expect a long day with formalities along the way, and keep your passport and any health documents within reach rather than in your main bag. Plan to arrive in daylight and avoid tight onward connections on the same day. If you fly, check the baggage allowance carefully, as small aircraft often require soft bags, and consider how it affects your safari luggage.
Where we pick you up
Our team is based in Arusha, so we plan the Tanzanian part of the trip from there. Tell us how and when you intend to arrive and we arrange the meeting point, transfers and your first accommodation.
If you prefer to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport directly, we can plan that instead.
Time is the main thing to protect. Border days can be unpredictable, so avoid scheduling a game drive or a flight on the same afternoon. A relaxed overnight in Arusha after crossing gives you a margin and lets you meet your guide and check the plan. If you are short of time, flying may be simpler, though it brings its own limits on luggage.
- Share your crossing plans early
- Keep passports and documents handy
- Allow buffer time on travel days
Building the Tanzanian itinerary
After a Kenyan safari, many travellers want something different rather than a repeat. Tanzania offers the Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire's elephants and Lake Manyara, along with Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.
We tailor a route to your dates and budget; ask us for a current quote.
Because you will already know something about safaris, we can take a more tailored approach, avoiding repetition of what you have seen. If you have visited the Masai Mara, for example, the Serengeti may feel like its continuation, while Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire offer very different scenery. We are glad to compare notes on what you liked and design a route with something new.
Practical reminders
Do not assume a vehicle from one country can continue across the border; arrangements differ, so plan the handover with us in advance. Carry travel insurance and check that your documents are valid.
Related pages on our site
- Road travel in Tanzania
- Domestic flights in Tanzania
- Immigration and customs on arrival
- Tanzania safari tours
Frequently asked questions
Can I start my Tanzania safari from Nairobi?
Yes, many travellers do. You can cross by road or fly, then we handle the Tanzanian side. Confirm current border and entry rules with official sources first. Border rules and processes change from time to time, so please check the latest guidance rather than relying on older advice.
Will my Kenyan safari vehicle continue into Tanzania?
Do not assume so. Cross-border vehicle arrangements vary, so we normally plan a handover on the Tanzanian side. Tell us your plans and we will advise. Your own vehicle and driver may not be able to continue, so tell us your plans early and we will advise on handover.
Is it easier to fly to Kilimanjaro instead?
For many travellers it is simpler, because you land close to Arusha. It depends on your wider Kenya plans, and we can compare both approaches. If you are already planning a safari in Kenya, the choice often depends on time, budget and how you like to travel.
