Tanzania Fly-In Safari: Your Gateway to Unparalleled Wilderness
Tanzania Fly-in Safari Packages – Fast Access to Iconic Parks
A Tanzania fly-in safari is truly the ideal solution for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking wilderness without enduring the long hours typically associated with overland driving. With the convenience of direct flights into some of the most iconic national parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Ruaha, you not only save precious time but also get to enjoy stunning aerial views that showcase Tanzania’s diverse and picturesque landscapes from above. Whether you are flying from the beautiful island of Zanzibar, the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, or the vibrant town of Arusha, our carefully curated fly-in and fly-out safari options provide a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and unparalleled game-viewing opportunities.
This means you can spend more time experiencing the incredible wildlife and natural beauty that Tanzania has to offer, making your safari adventure both memorable and hassle-free. Embrace the thrill of the wild with ease and comfort!
Ready to start planning your fly-in safari?
Get in touch today and receive a custom quote tailored to your travel dates, preferences, and budget.
🚁 What Is a Tanzania Fly-in Safari?
A fly-in safari is an exciting and convenient way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania, as it involves taking domestic flights that transport you directly into the country's remote and stunning safari parks. Typically, these flights land on bush airstrips that are conveniently located near your chosen lodge or camp, allowing you to bypass the long and often bumpy hours spent on dusty roads. This means you can maximize your time enjoying thrilling game drives and indulging in well-deserved relaxation amidst the beautiful wilderness.
On the other hand, a fly-in and fly-out safari takes this experience to the next level by ensuring that your entire safari route is covered by air travel. This option is particularly ideal for guests who may be short on time or those who are in search of the ultimate luxury safari experience. With this approach, you can enjoy the best of Tanzania without the hassle of lengthy transfers.
Our Fly-In Safari Packages?
Explore our Fly-in & Out, Fly-in Drive-out, and Drive-in Fly-out safari packages—crafted to match your travel style and schedule. Whether you want to fly both ways for maximum comfort, enjoy a mix of road adventure and scenic flights, or begin with a drive and return by air, we offer the perfect Tanzania safari experience. Choose your ideal route and book now for an unforgettable journey through Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
3 Days Fly-in Safari Options
Here are the 3-Day Fly-in Safari Options. Choose the one that works best for you. You can also ask for a quote for any or all of them. We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure!
🛩️ Popular Tanzania Fly-In Safari Routes
Explore the most convenient, scenic, and time-saving ways to access Tanzania’s top national parks and remote wilderness areas.
🏖️ Zanzibar to Serengeti Fly-In Safari
Perfect for travelers looking to combine beach relaxation with thrilling wildlife adventures, this route takes you from the white sands of Zanzibar to the iconic plains of the Serengeti National Park in just 90 minutes. Skip the layovers and overland transfers—this direct flight lands at airstrips like Seronera, Kogatende, or Ndutu, placing you right in the heart of the action.
Popular for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and beach-to-bush itineraries.
Best For: 3 to 5-Day Fly-In & Fly-Out Serengeti Safaris
🛬 Arusha to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater by Air
Want to avoid the 6–8 hour drive from Arusha to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro? Flying from Arusha Airport to the Serengeti is the fastest way to begin your safari without fatigue. You can also fly into Lake Manyara Airstrip, close to Ngorongoro Crater. This route is great for travelers landing internationally in Kilimanjaro or Arusha and heading straight into the wild.
Popular for: Those short on time or looking for a comfortable start to their safari.
Best For: 4 to 6-Day Fly-In Drive-Out or Fly-In Fly-Out Safari Options
🌿 Dar es Salaam to Ruaha or Nyerere (Selous) by Air
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path safari experiences, flying from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha National Park or Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) offers access to vast, wild, and uncrowded terrain. These routes cater to experienced safari-goers or those looking for something beyond the northern circuit.
Popular for: Photographers, seasoned travelers, and nature lovers.
Best For: 4 to 6-Day Fly-In Safari Itineraries in Southern Tanzania
🚁 Fly-In, Drive-Out Safari
This popular hybrid route lets you fly into Serengeti National Park. This saves time and energy. After that, you can drive out through Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. This completes the northern circuit. This method balances comfort and coverage, giving you the best of both aerial access and overland exploration.
Popular for: Adventurers who want to see it all in 5–6 days.
Best For: 5 to 6-Day Fly-In, Drive-Out Tanzania Safaris
🛩️ Fly-In and Fly-Out Luxury Safari
For the ultimate in convenience and style, choose a fly-in and fly-out safari to the Serengeti. You will fly straight to remote airstrips. You will stay in nice tented camps or safari lodges. This way, you can avoid long drives. This option is perfect for travellers prioritising time, comfort, and exceptional service throughout their safari.
Popular for: VIP guests, couples, and luxury seekers.
Best For: 3 to 5-Day Serengeti Fly-In & Fly-Out Safari Packages
💰 Fly-In Safari Pricing Guide
The cost of a fly-in safari in Tanzania depends on the travel route, length of stay, season, and type of lodging you pick. For travelers looking to save time while still enjoying an authentic safari experience, fly-in safaris offer a premium, efficient way to explore Tanzania’s top parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Ruaha.
For a Fly-In Only Safari (one-way), prices usually range from $1,850 to $2,900 per person. This is for a 3 to 4-day package. You will fly into the Serengeti and leave by land. This option is ideal for travelers who want to begin their journey in comfort but enjoy a scenic return through Tanzania's northern safari circuit.
A Fly-In & Drive-Out Safari, generally lasting 5 days, costs between $2,300 and $3,800 per person. This hybrid itinerary lets you fly directly into the Serengeti and drive out through iconic stops like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, creating a diverse and immersive experience.
If you want a convenient and luxurious choice, try the Fly-In & Fly-Out Safari. This package lasts 5 to 7 days. Prices range from $3,200 to over $6,000 per person. This includes round-trip bush flights, luxury accommodations, all meals, park fees, and exclusive access to remote wildlife areas without the need for long drives.
✨ Rates may fluctuate depending on the time of year, your chosen lodge or camp (budget, mid-range, or luxury), and your domestic flight route.
🎯 Looking for the best value? Ask us about exclusive last-minute deals on flights from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, or Arusha to Serengeti.
🧳 What to Pack for a Fly-in Safari
When gearing up for an unforgettable fly-in safari adventure in Tanzania—particularly to the more remote and breathtaking parks such as the Serengeti—it's crucial to pack efficiently while still being strategic about your choices. Most domestic bush flights impose a weight limit of 15kg (33 lbs) per person, and they require that you use soft-sided duffel bags for your luggage. This means you need to be thoughtful about what you bring along. To ensure that your safari experience is both comfortable and practical, consider including lightweight clothing suitable for varying temperatures, essential toiletries, a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing, and any necessary medications. Planning ahead will enhance your journey significantly!
🧵 Clothing & Luggage
-
Soft-sided duffel bag (15kg limit; no hard-shell suitcases)
-
Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral tones (khaki, beige, olive)
-
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun protection and cooler evenings
-
Lightweight jacket or fleece for early morning and evening game drives
-
Comfortable walking shoes or closed-toe safari shoes
-
Swimsuit (some lodges have pools)
🧢 Sun & Weather Protection
-
Wide-brimmed hat or safari cap
-
Polarized sunglasses
-
High-SPF sunscreen for face and body
-
Lip balm with sun protection
🦟 Health & Hygiene
-
Insect repellent (preferably with DEET)
-
Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
-
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
-
Reusable water bottle
📸 Safari Essentials
-
Camera with zoom lens (200mm or more recommended)
-
Extra memory cards and batteries
-
Binoculars for game viewing and bird watching
-
Flashlight or headlamp (some camps have limited lighting)
-
Travel adapter and power bank
✅ Tip: Pack valuables, documents, and essentials in your carry-on bag for easy access during short bush flights.
5 Questions About Tanzania Fly-in Safaris
What is the cost of a Fly-in Safari in Tanzania?
Traveling by air between various locations is usually pricier than embarking on a road safari in Tanzania. Although fly-in safaris present numerous advantages, budget-minded travelers frequently opt for more economical alternatives. Thankfully, several local airlines now offer scheduled flights connecting different parks, and the rise in competition among carriers servicing popular routes has resulted in reduced fares.
Additionally, flying from one park to another is typically more time-efficient, enabling you to complete your safari in a shorter timeframe compared to a road journey. With this in mind, a fly-in package may not be drastically more expensive than a road safari. However, it’s essential to recognize that these packages often include exclusive, upscale lodges, which carry a higher cost
What are the pros and cons of driver-guide vs. fly-in safaris in Tanzania?
There are two primary methods for exploring the country. One option is to arrange a safari where a driver-guide accompanies you throughout your journey. This individual will transport you from one park to another and typically lead the game drives as well. In this scenario, the guide will remain a consistent presence during your vacation. However, you may have to cover considerable distances between parks, which can be exhausting, but it allows you to experience much of rural Tanzania, away from the crowded tourist hotspots.
On the other hand, you can choose a Tanzanian fly-in safari, which allows you to travel between parks via light aircraft. This option significantly reduces travel time by eliminating many extra kilometres spent on the road, often on uneven terrain. When you arrive at each park by air, a local guide will be waiting for you at the airstrip. They will assist you throughout your stay at that location, meaning you will have a different guide at each destination. These local guides are typically more knowledgeable about the area than the general guides based in urban centres. During a fly-in safari, your game drives will take place in the lodge’s open-sided vehicles, which are more spacious and comfortable compared to the pop-up-roof 4x4s used for road safaris.
Additionally, it is feasible to combine both safari types. You might book a road safari to either Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro National Park, previously known as Selous Game Reserve. You can also include a fly-in excursion to a more secluded area, such as visiting chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains National Park
What are the luggage restrictions for a fly-in trip to Tanzania?
Safari flights generally utilize smaller planes, which impose strict baggage allowances of 20 kg (33 lb) per individual. Given the limited storage capacity, travelers are advised to opt for soft-sided bags, such as duffel bags, to facilitate easier packing. While international flights permit a greater amount of luggage, you have the option to either adhere to the smaller aircraft's limitations or leave some bags with your tour operator or hotel upon your arrival.
To assist with these baggage constraints, numerous lodges provide same-day laundry services, and certain upscale lodges even incorporate this service into their packages. However, these luggage restrictions can create difficulties for passionate photographers who need to transport large lenses and additional gear. If you have any doubts regarding your luggage, it’s wise to reach out to your tour operator in advance. In some instances, you might need to reserve an additional seat for your equipment
What is the reliability and safety of small aircraft for fly-in safaris in Tanzania?
A fly-in safari with US Travel Wise provides a secure and enjoyable adventure in Tanzania. The nation boasts a well-established safari sector, featuring numerous local airlines that have been in operation for many years. These carriers adhere to stringent safety measures and are recognized for their dependability.
Multiple airlines provide scheduled flights to popular parks and reserves, adjusting their services according to demand. Although routes are pre-planned, stops at different airstrips are contingent upon the reservations made. Consequently, flight schedules are typically confirmed the day before departure. Lodges collaborate closely with the airlines to keep guests updated and facilitate transfers to and from the airstrips.
Which parks in Tanzania are best for this safari?
Most parks and reserves can be reached by road or fly-in safari. At Travel Wise Safari, we support both ways for the Northern circuit. This circuit includes Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks. Given that the Ngorongoro Conservation Area lies en route to the Serengeti, consider driving one way and flying back. This strategy not only saves time but also helps you avoid retracing your journey.
The Southern circuit, which includes Mikumi, Nyerere, and Ruaha National Parks, is somewhat more isolated. Many of our visitors opt for flying in, but a road trip serves as a more economical option, particularly if you plan to visit just one reserve.
For the Western circuit, which features Katavi, Mahale Mountains, and Gombe National Parks, fly-in safaris are the standard. Katavi provides a quintessential savannah experience with sightings of lions and elephants, while Mahale and Gombe offer the rare chance for chimp trekking along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. We frequently suggest visiting both Katavi and Mahale together due to their convenient flight connections.
Although it is theoretically feasible to reach Katavi by road, it is seldom attempted due to its seclusion. Mahale and Gombe lack access roads, so travellers usually arrive by air and then take a private boat transfer. The exclusivity of the Western circuit, with its limited rustic lodges, guarantees a genuinely wild experience away from the crowds. At Travel Wise Safari, we are dedicated to crafting unforgettable adventures customized just for you.
What locations are accessible through a fly-in safari?
You have the option to fly straight to:
-
Serengeti National Park (various airstrips: Seronera, Kogatende, etc.)
-
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
-
Tarangire National Park
-
Ruaha and Selous (for southern circuit safaris)
-
Zanzibar (for safari and beach combination trips)
Is flying domestically in Tanzania considered safe?
Certainly. We partner with well-respected national airlines that comply with stringent international safety regulations. Our pilots have significant experience in bush flying, making them adept at managing diverse conditions. Moreover, they operate under strict guidelines, which enhances the safety and dependability of our offerings.
Can I combine a fly-in safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar?
Absolutely! A significant number of travelers choose to embark on an unforgettable journey by taking a flight from the stunning island of Zanzibar to the awe-inspiring Serengeti or other nearby national parks. After experiencing the thrill of a safari, many of these adventurers return to unwind and relax on the pristine beaches that Zanzibar is famous for.
Our expertise lies in meticulously designing and crafting exceptional Zanzibar-to-safari packages that cater to your adventurous spirit while ensuring you enjoy the best of both worlds. We understand the importance of balancing excitement with relaxation, and our tailored packages are created to provide you with a seamless experience. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters or serene beach days, we have the perfect itinerary to make your dream vacation a reality.