Flying to Mount Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the most convenient way to begin your Kilimanjaro trekking adventure. The airport sits between Arusha and Moshi, approximately 45 km from the mountain's main entry points. Whether you are traveling from the US, UK, Europe, Asia, or Africa, several airlines provide direct or connecting flights to JRO.
This guide explains the best flight routes, alternative airports, domestic airline options, and essential travel tips to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
For climbers traveling from the UK, the USA, or Europe, the easiest and most reliable route is to connect through Amsterdam, then fly directly to JRO with KLM. This is the most popular option among international trekkers because of the simple connection and daily reliability.
The most convenient option is to book a flight arriving directly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Airlines that frequently operate routes to JRO include:
KLM
Turkish Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines
Qatar Airways
Emirates
Schedules may change, so it is best to confirm with your airline or booking platform before travel.
If direct flights to JRO are unavailable or you prefer alternatives, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam. From here, you can connect to Kilimanjaro via domestic carriers such as:
Precision Air
Fastjet
RwandAir
Kenya Airways
Zanair
Dar es Salaam offers easy access to beaches like Kipepeo, Coco Beach, and Mbezi Beach if you'd like to relax before heading to Moshi or Arusha.
Flying into Nairobi (NBO) can be a cost-effective alternative. Many travelers choose this route due to frequent flight availability and competitive fares.
From Nairobi, you can:
Take a one-hour connecting flight to JRO
Travel by road via shuttle bus or private transfer to Arusha or Moshi
However, additional costs such as Kenya visas and extra transfers should be considered.
IATA: JRO
ICAO: HTKJ
This is the closest international airport to Mount Kilimanjaro and the main entry point for trekkers.
After landing, most climbers stay in Moshi or Arusha, the two major towns serving as gateways to Kilimanjaro National Park.
Common flight routes to Kilimanjaro from different regions:
Via Kenya Airways: South Africa → Nairobi → Kilimanjaro (JNB / CPT → NBO → JRO)
Via Ethiopian Airlines: South Africa → Addis Ababa → Kilimanjaro (JNB / CPT → ADD → JRO)
Via Qatar Airways: South Africa → Doha → Kilimanjaro (JNB / CPT → DOH → JRO)
Via KLM: Direct flights from Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro (AMS → JRO)
Via CondorAir: Direct flights from Frankfurt to Kilimanjaro (FRA → JRO)
Via Turkish Airlines: Direct flights from Istanbul to Kilimanjaro (IST → JRO)
Via Kenya Airways: Direct flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro (NBO → JRO)
Via PrecisionAir: Direct flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro (NBO → JRO)
Via Qatar Airways: Direct flights from Doha to Kilimanjaro (DOH → JRO)
Via Ethiopian Airlines: Direct flights from Addis Ababa to Kilimanjaro (ADD → JRO)
Via RwandAir: Direct flights from Kigali to Kilimanjaro (KGL → JRO)
All Kilimanjaro climbing itineraries begin from one of two towns:
1. Moshi: Closest town to Kilimanjaro Airport, Approximately 45 km (40 minutes) from JRO, Ideal for routes like Marangu, Rongai, and Lemosho
2. Arusha: About 70 km (90 minutes) from JRO, Best for routes such as Machame, Lemosho, and Northern Circuit
Both towns offer excellent hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour operator offices.
Check visa and passport requirements early
Ensure your Yellow Fever and COVID-19 vaccinations are up to date
Arrive 1–2 days before your climb for rest and acclimatization
Climbers must be accompanied by a licensed mountain operator
Routes have limited daily capacity, managed by park authorities
Minimum climbing age: 10 years
No maximum age, but medical advice is recommended for climbers over 60
Most nationalities can obtain a visa in advance via Tanzania's e-Visa portal. Prices range from $50–$100, valid for up to three months.