What is the best way to get to Kilimanjaro?

The best way to get to Mount Kilimanjaro is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and then transfer to Moshi, the main gateway town for climbers.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) just 45 minutes away from Moshi is the best way to get to Mount Kilimanjaro since Moshi is the closest town to the mountain. The airport located between Moshi and Arusha only receives direct flights from the Netherlands, the Middle East and Turkey. From Europe, the best options are with KLM via Amsterdam or Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.

Travellers from North America, the United States (USA), or the Far East, the best options are to fly via the Middle East. You can read more about flights to Tanzania for climbing Kilimanjaro and Kilimanjaro International Airport transfers.

Click here to read more about how to get to Kilimanjaro.

Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- This is by far the most convenient airport.
- Located between Moshi and Arusha.
- Direct or one-stop flights from many major hubs (Amsterdam via KLM, Addis Ababa via Ethiopian, Doha via Qatar, Istanbul via Turkish, etc.).
- No direct flights from the US or UK, but connections are straightforward.
Transfer to Moshi (45–60 minutes)
- Most operators (including Tranquil Kilimanjaro) include a private transfer from JRO to your hotel in Moshi.
- Moshi is the practical base town for the climb — closer to the mountain than Arusha.
Alternative Airports (Less Ideal)
- Arusha (ARK) — Smaller airport, then longer transfer.
- Nairobi (NBO), Kenya — Then a long bus or shuttle (8–10+ hours) + border crossing. Only consider if flights are significantly cheaper.

Recommended Flight Strategy

Book early — Especially for peak seasons (June–October, December–February).
Arrive 1–2 days early in Moshi to rest, acclimate, and do a gear check/briefing.
Depart 1 day after the climb for a buffer.

What Your Operator Usually Handles

Airport pickup and drop-off (included in most packages).
Hotel in Moshi before and after the climb.
All transport to and from the mountain.

Pro tip: When booking your flight, try to sit on the left side of the plane when approaching JRO — you may get your first amazing view of Kilimanjaro!