Mwanza Airport

Mwanza Airport is the main air gateway to Tanzania's Lake Zone and a key transport hub for travel around the famous "Rock City". Located practically on the shores of the majestic Lake Victoria, it welcomes guests with picturesque views upon approach and serves as a convenient starting point for trips to the Serengeti and Rubondo Island national parks. The airport plays a vital role in the region's life, connecting the north of the country with Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and neighbouring East African states. Despite its compact size, the terminal provides passengers with necessary comfort and quick service before departure.

Mwanza Airport is actively developing and modernising to meet the growing flow of tourists and business travellers. Among its features and advantages are:

• Strategic Location: Proximity to the city centre (just a 15–20 minute drive) and Lake Victoria makes logistics for travellers as simple and convenient as possible.
• Safari Gateway: It is one of the closest major airports to the western part of Serengeti National Park, making it a popular choice for starting safari tours.
• Base Hub: The airport serves as a home base for Auric Air and an important hub for Precision Air, ensuring excellent connections to small airstrips within national parks.
• Terminal Services: Passengers have access to cafes (such as the Flamingo restaurant overlooking the airfield), souvenir shops, and a VIP lounge with free Wi-Fi for a comfortable wait.
• Important Tip: Travellers should note that ATMs are located in the public area before security control, so it is best to withdraw cash in advance.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Mwanza Airport. Please note that the airport is managed by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), and some enquiries may be redirected to the central office.

• Official Website: Mwanza Airport does not have a separate website. All official information is published on the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) website: www.taa.go.tz.
• Information Desk Phone: You can contact the airport information desk by phone: +255 28 2500609.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Mwanza, Tanzania. The airport is located approximately 10 km northeast of the city centre.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the email: info.mwanza@taa.go.tz.
• Social Media: It is recommended to follow the official pages of the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) on social media for the latest news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly at the airport. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For on-site assistance, please approach the information desk in the terminal or call the main airport phone number.

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) is located approximately 11 kilometres from the centre of Mwanza city, on the shores of Lake Victoria. You can get from the city to the airport or vice versa in several ways, suitable for different budgets and preferences. Although the city does not have a metro or direct rail link to the airport, transport accessibility is ensured by taxis and local minibuses.

Taxi and Private Transfer. This is the easiest, safest, and most popular way to get to the airport. The journey from the centre of Mwanza usually takes 20-30 minutes, but time may vary depending on traffic. It is recommended to discuss the trip cost with the driver in advance, as not all cars are equipped with meters. For added convenience, especially if travelling with family or large luggage, you can book a transfer through your hotel.

Public Transport (Dala-dala). For those seeking a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, there are local route taxis known as dala-dala. This is the cheapest option, but it requires more time and may not be very comfortable, especially during peak hours. Note that there may not be a direct route to the terminal entrance itself, and you might have to walk a short distance from the nearest stop. This method is best suited for travellers with light luggage.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Lake Victoria or visit the national parks of Tanzania on your own, renting a car is an excellent solution. Some rental agencies offer pick-up and drop-off services directly at the airport. Mwanza Airport has a car park where you can safely leave your vehicle during your absence.

For thrill-seekers and quick travel over short distances, there are motorcycle taxis, or boda-boda. This is a fast way to move around, especially for a single passenger with a small backpack, but it comes with certain risks. If you decide to use a boda-boda, strictly request a helmet and agree on the price before the ride begins.

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) is a compact and functional airport serving both domestic and international flights. The airport structure is quite simple, making navigation intuitive even for first-time visitors.

In fact, the airport operates with one main terminal, which is divided into several functional zones. You do not need to worry about transfers between terminals—all procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place within a single building. The airport layout is linear: departure and arrival zones are located next to each other, minimising movement time.

The departure zone includes airline check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a general waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival zone consists of a baggage claim hall and customs control for international passengers. Due to the small size of the terminal, the path from the entrance to the boarding gate or from the aircraft to the city exit is very short.

Passing through check-in and security at Mwanza Airport usually takes less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. For navigation, follow the signs (in English and Swahili) and do not hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) has a rich history closely linked to the development of the city and the entire Lake Region of Tanzania. Its story began in the 1950s, when a small airfield was built on the shores of Lake Victoria. At that time, it served mainly administrative and transport needs, connecting the remote region with other parts of the country.

After Tanzania gained independence, the airport began to develop gradually alongside the growing economic importance of Mwanza as a centre for fishing, agriculture, and mining. For decades, it remained a modest air harbour serving predominantly domestic flights. A key stage in its history was the massive modernisation and expansion programme that began in 2012. This ambitious project aimed to transform the airport into a modern international hub.

During the reconstruction, the runway was significantly lengthened and strengthened, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft, including wide-body jets. A new modern passenger terminal was built, capable of handling up to 1 million passengers per year, as well as new cargo processing facilities. These improvements not only increased safety and comfort but also opened new opportunities for tourism and trade.

Today, Mwanza Airport is one of the busiest in the country and plays a key role as the main gateway to the western corridor of the world-renowned Serengeti National Park. It also serves as a vital logistics hub for the region's thriving gold mining industry. While its history may not feature dramatic records, its consistent development is a shining example of how infrastructure fosters economic growth and makes remote corners of the world accessible to travellers.

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) offers passengers a set of essential services to make waiting for flights comfortable. Although the airport is not a major international hub, it has everything necessary for travellers setting off to explore the beauties of Tanzania or the business centre—the city of Mwanza.

In the terminal, you will find several cafes and small eateries where you can grab a snack with sandwiches, pastries, and light meals, as well as enjoy coffee or soft drinks. Souvenir stalls and shops are also available, offering travel essentials and local products. The selection here is not vast, but it allows you to purchase necessities.

For passengers preferring privacy, a VIP lounge is usually available, offering more comfortable conditions. Wi-Fi access is provided in the airport building, though it may be paid or time-limited. Power outlets for charging mobile devices can be found in waiting areas, but their number may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Currency exchange points and ATMs operate within the airport, making it easy to handle financial matters upon arrival or before departure. For emergencies, there is a medical post at the airport where first aid can be provided.

The airport provides services for passengers with special needs. Staff will assist with movement through the terminal and boarding for people with reduced mobility. Mother and child rooms are equipped for the convenience of travellers with small children. It is best to notify your airline in advance if special assistance is required.

There are no hotels or business centres directly inside the airport building. However, a wide selection of hotels for any budget, as well as conference rooms for business meetings, can be found in Mwanza city, which is just a few kilometres from the terminal.

Mwanza Airport (MWZ) is an important regional air hub in Tanzania; however, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited, consistent with the status of a small airport. Travellers should plan their lunch or dinner in advance, as opportunities for a full meal directly in the terminal are modest.

In the main airport building, typically in the area before security control (landside), there are one or two small cafes or snack bars. Here, passengers can purchase a standard set for a quick bite:

• Drinks: Bottled water, carbonated drinks, juices, tea, and instant coffee.
• Snacks: Packaged crisps, biscuits, chocolate, as well as sandwiches or pastries.
• Local Flavour: Sometimes the assortment includes local snacks such as samosa (sambusa) or mandazi (similar to doughnuts), which is a great option for getting to know the local cuisine "on the go".

There are no specialised restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes at Mwanza Airport. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are strongly recommended to bring food with them. Regarding Halal food, most meat products in the region are Halal by default, but one should not expect certified establishments within the airport. Prices in cafes will be higher than in the city but generally remain at an acceptable level. Opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule, and they may be closed at night or between flights. For a full meal, it is better to choose a restaurant in the city before heading to the airport.

When planning a departure from Mwanza Airport, arrive early. For domestic flights within Tanzania, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allow 2.5–3 hours. This time will be enough to go through all formalities without rushing, even if there are small queues.

Keep your passport and ticket (or its electronic version) ready. The check-in and security process at Mwanza Airport is usually calm but may not be as automated as in major hubs. Be polite to the staff, and all procedures will go faster. At security control, be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage, and observe restrictions on carrying liquids.

If there is an option to select a seat during online check-in, take advantage of it. Window seats will offer you stunning views of Lake Victoria during take-off or landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to stand up during the flight or are travelling with hand luggage in the overhead bin.

Sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (except for baby food and medicines) are prohibited in hand luggage. Ensure that all valuables, documents, money, and necessary electronics are with you. Before travelling, strictly check the weight and size limits for hand luggage on your airline's website, as they may differ.

Mwanza Airport is not a major transit hub. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Also, find out if you will need to go through security control again between flights.

When entering the country via an international flight, be prepared for customs control. Familiarise yourself in advance with the rules for importing and exporting currency, as well as restrictions on carrying certain goods (e.g., products of animal origin). Honestly declare everything that is subject to declaration to avoid misunderstandings.

To save time, check in for your flight online. To save money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance through trusted services—this is often cheaper than taking a car on the spot. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security if there are drinking fountains in the terminal.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (e.g., food vouchers). Keep a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you to pass the waiting time.