Facebook Instagram
PLAN TREK NOW

Mount Kilimanjaro Airport

How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)

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.

Flights from London / USA to Mount Kilimanjaro

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.

Flights to Mount Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)

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.

Alternative Option: Flying to Dar es Salaam (DAR)

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.

Alternative Option: Flying to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO)

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.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) — Codes

  • 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.

Region Flight Route Description Airport Codes
South Africa Via Kenya Airways: South Africa → Nairobi → Kilimanjaro
Via Ethiopian Airlines: South Africa → Addis Ababa → Kilimanjaro
Via Qatar Airways: South Africa → Doha → Kilimanjaro 		JNB / CPT → NBO → JRO
JNB / CPT → ADD → JRO
JNB / CPT → DOH → JRO
Amsterdam Via KLM: Direct flights from Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro AMS → JRO
Frankfurt Via CondorAir: Direct flights from Frankfurt to Kilimanjaro FRA → JRO
Istanbul Via Turkish Airlines: Direct flights from Istanbul to Kilimanjaro IST → JRO
Kenya Via Kenya Airways: Direct flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro
Via PrecisionAir: Direct flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro 		NBO → JRO
Qatar Via Qatar Airways: Direct flights from Doha to Kilimanjaro DOH → JRO
Ethiopia Via Ethiopian Airlines: Direct flights from Addis Ababa to Kilimanjaro ADD → JRO
Rwanda Via RwandAir: Direct flights from Kigali to Kilimanjaro KGL → JRO
Which Town Do Kilimanjaro Climbs Start From?

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.

Important Travel Tips

  • 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

Climbing Permits & Restrictions

  • 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

Can You Get a Visa at Kilimanjaro Airport?

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.