Getting around Tanzania without taking a flight for every hop is achievable on the main tourist routes. The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar fast ferry is a popular option, taking roughly 90 minutes to 2 hours and costing USD 35 for an economy ticket. This makes it a more affordable and efficient option compared to flying, which costs around USD 60-80 and requires airport transfers. However, the ferry can be uncomfortable during rough seas.
The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar crossing is one of the most-used water routes in East Africa, with Azam Marine and Zan Fast Ferries operating multiple departures daily. Travelers can book online in advance, especially during peak seasons in July-August and December-January, to secure tickets. It is recommended to arrive at the Sokoine Drive terminal at least an hour before departure and buy tickets only at official port ticket offices or the carrier's website.
For those traveling from Dar es Salaam to Arusha, the Kilimanjaro Express bus is a viable option, taking around 10-12 hours and costing USD 30 for a one-way first-class ticket. Other operators, such as Royal Coach, Riverside Coach, and Dar Express, also offer air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats from Ubungo terminal in northwest Dar. However, travelers should be cautious when taking overnight services due to road safety concerns.
Travelers heading to Zanzibar from Arusha can take a two-day route, involving an overnight stop in Dar es Salaam. This involves taking an express bus from Arusha to Dar es Salaam on the first day, followed by a fast ferry to Zanzibar on the second day. While it is possible to compress this into one day, a delay on the bus or traffic through Dar can result in an unplanned night in Dar.
The TAZARA railway offers a unique overland experience from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, covering a distance of around 1,860 km. The Mukuba Express takes around 46-48 hours, with cross-border passenger service resuming on February 10, 2026. First-class sleeper compartments are recommended, with tickets costing around USD 40. However, services have changed in recent years, and travelers should check what is available on board before traveling.
Tanzania's road network has improved in the last decade, but quality varies by route. Travelers should research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey. The TAZARA railway, while slow and sometimes delayed, offers a remarkable train journey through the southern Nyerere/Selous ecosystem and the Udzungwa Mountains.
When planning a trip to Tanzania, travelers should consider their time, budget, and personal preferences. The bus-and-ferry option makes sense when time is flexible, and travelers enjoy the journey. However, when schedule reliability matters, or travelers want to arrive in Zanzibar in the morning, flying may be a better option. Researching and booking in advance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Key points
- The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar fast ferry is a popular and affordable option, taking roughly 90 minutes to 2 hours and costing USD 35 for an economy ticket.
- The TAZARA railway offers a unique overland experience from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, covering a distance of around 1,860 km.
- Travelers should research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey, considering factors such as road quality, bus and ferry schedules, and personal preferences.
