Julius Nyerere International Airport

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is not just the main air gateway to Tanzania, but the starting point for unforgettable adventures across East Africa. Named after the country's first president, this airport serves as a bridge connecting the world with Tanzania's exotic nature and rich culture. It is from here that most travellers begin their journey to the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro, the endless savannahs of the Serengeti, or the pristine white beaches of Zanzibar. The airport is located in the country's largest city, Dar es Salaam, and is a key transport hub serving flights from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Julius Nyerere Airport consists of three terminals, each serving a specific function. Terminal 1 handles charter and private flights, Terminal 2 serves domestic flights, and the ultra-modern Terminal 3, opened in 2019, accommodates all international flights. It is in Terminal 3 that passengers will find everything needed for a comfortable wait: duty-free shops, restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine, currency exchange counters, ATMs, and comfortable business lounges. The airport is well-equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, offering ramps, elevators, and special assistance upon request. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is the main hub for national carriers such as Air Tanzania and Precision Air, ensuring convenient connections for further travel across the country.

To contact representatives of Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), you can use the following details:

• Official Website: www.taa.go.tz (Airport page on the Tanzania Airports Authority website).
• Help Desk Phone: +255 22 2844212.
• Address: Julius K. Nyerere Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
• Email: info@taa.go.tz (General email of the Tanzania Airports Authority).
• Social Media: News and updates are frequently published on the official Tanzania Airports Authority social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly; their counters are located in the arrival terminal.
• Passenger Support Service: Information desks to assist passengers are located in the terminal halls. You may also use the general helpline for enquiries.

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is located approximately 12 kilometres southwest of the business centre of Dar es Salaam, the main economic hub of Tanzania. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport or vice versa, depending on your budget, time, and amount of luggage. On average, the journey takes from 30 minutes to an hour, but during peak hours, it may take longer due to heavy traffic.

Taxi and Transfer — the simplest and most comfortable option. You can use official taxis waiting for passengers at the terminal exits or book a car via popular international ride-hailing apps. It is highly recommended to agree on the fare with the driver in advance or use apps with fixed rates to avoid inflated prices. Many hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which is convenient but may be slightly more expensive.

Public Transport — the most budget-friendly method. The city operates the DART (Dar Rapid Transit) bus system, one route of which connects the city centre with the airport. This is a modern, relatively fast, and very cheap option. For full immersion in the local atmosphere, you can take the "dala-dala" minibuses, however, they are often overcrowded and can be inconvenient if you have large luggage.

Car Rental is suitable for those planning independent trips around the country. Offices of several major international and local rental companies are located at Julius Nyerere Airport. It is better to book a car online in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. For those arriving at the airport by private or rented transport, paid parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is available on the premises.

When planning your trip across Tanzania, note that other airports might be more convenient for certain destinations. For example, for a holiday on the famous archipelago, the main entry point is Zanzibar International Airport, and for diving on the namesake island — Mafia Airport.

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam consists of three main terminals, each serving different types of flights. Understanding their structure will help you navigate easily upon arrival or before departure.

Terminal 3 — this is the newest and most modern complex, handling the majority of international flights. If you are flying into Tanzania from abroad or departing from it, your flight will most likely be here. Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated: arriving passengers pass through passport control and collect luggage on the ground floor, while check-in counters and security screening for departing passengers are on the first floor. Terminal 3 features spacious halls, shops, cafes, and business lounges.

Terminal 2 is used primarily for domestic flights within the country, as well as for some regional flights to neighbouring African states. It is older and smaller than Terminal 3 but has all the necessary infrastructure: check-in counters, a waiting area, and food outlets. If you have a connecting flight to Zanzibar, Arusha, or another Tanzanian city, you will need to transfer here.

Terminal 1 — the oldest airport building, which currently serves mainly charter and private flights. For most tourists, it is not of interest, but it is important to know of its existence to avoid confusing the terminals.

A key feature of the airport is that Terminals 2 and 3 are located in separate buildings at some distance from each other (about 10-15 minutes on foot). A shuttle runs between them, and taxis are also available. When planning a transfer between international and domestic flights, be sure to allow extra time for this transfer. It is recommended to arrive for check-in and security screening 2.5-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights, especially during peak hours.

The history of Julius Nyerere International Airport reflects the growth and development not only of the city of Dar es Salaam but of all Tanzania. The airport was officially opened in 1954 under the name Dar es Salaam Airport. At that time, it was a small airfield built for the needs of the British colonial administration and to serve a limited number of flights.

A key stage in development was the late 1970s and early 1980s when the Tanzanian government decided to build a new passenger terminal to meet the growing demand for international travel. The new terminal, known today as Terminal 2, was inaugurated in 1984. Its design was handled by French engineers, creating a complex modern for its time, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.

An important historical event was the renaming of the airport in 2006. It received its current name in honour of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the first president of independent Tanzania, who was also known as the "Father of the Nation". This step highlighted the national significance of the country's main air harbour.

The latest and most large-scale modernization was completed in 2019 with the opening of the ultra-modern Terminal 3. This project significantly increased the airport's capacity to 6 million passengers per year. With the launch of the new terminal, which now serves all international flights, Terminal 2 was repurposed for domestic airlines. This reorganization has turned Julius Nyerere Airport into a major and convenient hub for travel across East Africa.

Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminals, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can grab a quick snack or have a full meal, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine. Duty-Free shops offer a standard assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, and alcohol, while souvenir shops sell locally made handicrafts, Tanzanian coffee, or tea as keepsakes.

For passengers who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available at the airport. Charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting halls. If you require a more comfortable environment for rest or work, several premium lounges are at your service, including VIP lounges, access to which can be obtained for a fee or via airline loyalty cards.

Financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport: there are bank branches, 24-hour currency exchange bureaus, and ATMs. You can easily exchange money for Tanzanian shillings upon arrival. In case of unforeseen situations, a medical centre is available within the terminal to provide first aid.

Travellers with children will appreciate the mother and child rooms, equipped with everything necessary for baby care. For passengers with reduced mobility, special assistance is provided, including escort through the airport and provision of wheelchairs. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

If you have a long layover, an early departure, or a late arrival, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, some of which offer free transfers. For business travellers, conference rooms and other meeting facilities may be available in the business lounges and nearby hotels.

At Julius Nyerere International Airport, passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, especially in the modern Terminal 3, which serves most international flights. While Terminal 2 (domestic flights) offers a more modest selection, the main terminal features cafes, restaurants, and bars to suit every taste and budget.

For those wishing to experience local cuisine, this is a great opportunity to try authentic Tanzanian dishes. Look for establishments offering Nyama Choma (grilled meat) or aromatic Pilau (spiced rice). Samosas and fresh juices made from tropical fruits are also popular. If you prefer something more familiar, restaurants serving international cuisine offer pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Numerous coffee shops offer excellent local coffee and pastries — an ideal option for a quick breakfast.

Most establishments are located in the "airside" zone, that is, after passing passport control and security checks. Here you will find restaurants for a leisurely lunch and bars where you can relax before your flight. In the public zone (landside), before check-in, the choice is usually limited to a few cafes, which is convenient for those seeing passengers off. Regarding dietary preferences, many local rice and vegetable-based dishes are suitable for vegetarians, and finding Halal food is very easy. For gluten-free options, it is best to check directly with the staff.

The price range varies from moderate at fast-food outlets to higher at full-service restaurants, which is standard for major international airports. Main establishments in Terminal 3 often operate 24/7 or adjust their schedule to flight times, so you won't go hungry even during a night departure. If you are short on time, grab a coffee and a sandwich at one of the cafes. If time permits, settle into a restaurant in the departure hall to enjoy the final taste of Tanzania before your journey.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of Dar es Salaam goes smoothly, use these proven tips. They will help save time and reduce stress, making your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. Check-in and security queues can be long, and procedures may be leisurely. If the airline offers online check-in, be sure to use this opportunity to save time.

Hand Luggage: Important Rule. Remember that Tanzania has a strict ban on the import and use of plastic bags. This rule applies to hand luggage as well. Ensure you do not have ordinary plastic bags with you to avoid fines and delays. Liquids (up to 100 ml per container) must be packed in a transparent reusable toiletry bag.

Security Checks and Seat Selection. Be prepared for multiple security checks. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. When choosing a seat on the plane, if you are departing from Dar es Salaam, window seats on the right side may offer a beautiful farewell view of the Indian Ocean coast.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a long layover, check if you need a transit visa to exit into the city. The airport transit zone has basic amenities: cafes and shops. For short transfers, it is better not to leave the secure area and proceed immediately to the boarding gate of your next flight.

Customs Control on Arrival. Fill out the migration card in advance, which is usually distributed on the plane. Have your passport, visa (if obtained in advance), and yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required for your country of departure) ready. Be prepared for a possible luggage inspection.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (water, meals). The airport has Wi-Fi (often paid) and rest areas where you can pass the time.