Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main gateway for travellers visiting northern Tanzania. It serves as the primary arrival point for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or embark on a safari across the country’s famous national parks.
Located between Arusha and Moshi, the airport offers convenient access to Tanzania’s most popular destinations, making it a strategic hub for both adventure and leisure travellers.
Location and Accessibility
Kilimanjaro International Airport is situated approximately 33 kilometres from Mount Kilimanjaro, on the border of the Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions.
Arusha is about 50 kilometres away (approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by road) and serves as the starting point for most safari itineraries.
Moshi, located 40 kilometres away (around 1 hour's drive), is the main base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbers and offers a wide range of accommodations with mountain views.
This central location makes JRO ideal for both safari travellers and trekkers.
International Flights to JRO
Kilimanjaro Airport is well connected to major international hubs. Key airlines operating flights to JRO include the following:
For travellers coming from the United States or Canada, there are no direct flights to JRO. The most convenient route is typically via Amsterdam with KLM, which offers reliable connections.
Flights from Nairobi (Kenya) are also available via Kenya Airways and Airkenya Express, though delays can occasionally occur.
Domestic Flights in Tanzania
Many travellers connect to JRO from other parts of Tanzania such as Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Recommended domestic airlines include:
These carriers also operate flights to national parks such as Serengeti, Ruaha, and Selous.
Domestic flights usually have luggage limits of 15–20 kg, including carry-on baggage.
Arrival Process at Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival, travellers enter a single terminal building and proceed through immigration.
Steps include:
Presenting a passport and visa (either pre-approved e-visa or obtained on arrival)
Completing a customs declaration form if necessary
After immigration:
Collect luggage at baggage claim
Exit the terminal where drivers and guides will be waiting
Additional services available on arrival:
Currency exchange and ATMs (dispense Tanzanian shillings only)
Free Wi-Fi inside the terminal
Clinic offering yellow fever vaccination
Restroom facilities near the exit
Kilisherpas Travel provides airport pick-up services, ensuring a smooth transfer to your hotel or lodge.
Departure Information
Travellers are advised to arrive:
3 hours before international flights
2 hours before domestic flights
Check-in counters open approximately 3 hours before departure. After check-in and security screening, passengers proceed to the waiting and boarding areas.
Airport Facilities and Services
Kilimanjaro Airport offers essential facilities for a comfortable travel experience:
Restaurant and café with local and international food
Souvenir shops with handmade crafts
Bookstore with English-language books and magazines
Jewelry shops featuring Tanzanite
There is also a baggage wrapping service available for an additional fee.
Airport Lounges
Passengers can access several lounge options:
Standard Lounge – Basic seating area, entry approximately $15
Business Lounge – Comfortable seating, food, drinks, and quiet areas; entry approximately $35
VIP Lounge – Private facility with premium services including fast-track immigration, snacks, drinks, and dedicated assistance
VIP lounge access must be booked in advance and offers a high level of privacy and comfort.
History of Kilimanjaro Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport was established in 1971. Often referred to as KIA or JRO, it was built in an area that was once open savannah inhabited by wildlife.
Today, the surrounding region is also known for tanzanite mining, a rare gemstone found only in northern Tanzania.
The airport’s runway is capable of handling large aircraft, including Boeing 747 and Antonov models.
Other International Airports in Tanzania
In addition to JRO, Tanzania has two other major international airports:
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar
