From Dar es Salaam to Ruaha: air or road
Ruaha is far from the coast, so plan the way in as part of the trip. There are two main options. A scheduled flight lands on an airstrip inside the park, at Msembe or Jongomero. The alternative is the road by way of Iringa and Tungamalenga, which takes longer but lets you stop in the town.
Dar es Salaam is about 625 km from the park by road. From Iringa it is roughly 108 km, and the drive takes about 2 to 3.5 hours depending on the track. A 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rains. The park is open all year and the gates close at 18:00, so arrive in daylight. Most visitors then book a Ruaha safari that includes the transfer.
Flights to the Ruaha airstrips
Times follow the schedule valid to 31 May 2027. They include stops and are not nonstop flight times.
| Route | Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dar es Salaam to Ruaha | 08:30 to 11:00, daily | Via the Selous area. Needs a minimum of 2 seats from Dar es Salaam |
| Zanzibar to Ruaha | 07:50 to 11:00, daily | Via Dar es Salaam and the Selous area |
| Arusha to Ruaha | 08:15 to 11:30 | Confirm the day and the stops for your date |
| Ruaha to the Selous area | 11:45 to 13:05, daily | About 1 hour 20 minutes. Minimum of 2 seats. Ask which landing strip is used, as Nyerere is a separate park |
A sample fare from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha is $433 for adults and $346 for children aged 2 to 12, plus $39 in charges. Under 2 is free. The standard baggage allowance is 15 kg, and XL baggage is 30 kg with confirmation. This is an example, not a final price for your date. For most travelers who want a short trip, the flight is the better choice. For those who want to see the country, the road is.
If you are starting in Arusha, our sister guide covers the Arusha airports.
Our pick: fly to Iringa, then drive
Return flights to Iringa are part of this trip, followed by about three hours by road into Ruaha.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Ruaha safaris with transfers
Ruaha National Park trips from Dar es Salaam, Iringa and nearby towns, with live prices and availability. Check whether flights, transfers and park fees are included.
By road and bus
The overland way through Iringa.
Dar es Salaam to Iringa by coach
In 2026 coaches leave at 14:00 and 13:00 and arrive at 22:00 and 21:30, for TZS 35,000 and TZS 55,000. Schedules and fares change, so check them before you go. See the Iringa guide for the town.
Iringa to the park
The road runs by way of Tungamalenga and takes about 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on its state. A 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rains. Do not plan on a regular bus all the way to the park.
Msembe and Jongomero
These are the two airstrips of the park. Which one you use depends on where your camp is. Ask your camp or operator which airstrip suits your stay.
Gates and timing
The gates close at 18:00. Leave Iringa early so you arrive in good time. The park is open all year.
Entry rules for Tanzania in 2026
Check your own situation before you book.
Visa
An eVisa for a single entry costs $50, and US citizens pay $100 for multiple entry. Rules differ by nationality, so confirm yours. German travelers are advised to apply for the eVisa through the immigration service.
Travel insurance
Since October 2026, mandatory travel insurance also applies on the mainland. The cost is $44 for up to 92 days. One policy covers a trip to both the mainland and Zanzibar. Some residents of East African and southern African countries are exempt, so check your status.
Yellow fever
Travelers coming directly from Germany need no vaccination proof. Proof is needed if you arrive from yellow fever areas, for travelers aged 1 year and over. A transit stay of under 12 hours at an airport is exempt.
Park fees
The park entry is paid separately. See the park fees guide.
Getting to Ruaha: frequently asked questions
How do I get from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha?
By scheduled flight to Msembe or Jongomero, 08:30 to 11:00 via the Selous area, or by road by way of Iringa. The road is about 625 km.
How long is the drive from Iringa to Ruaha?
About 2 to 3.5 hours by way of Tungamalenga, depending on the track. A 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rains.
How much is the flight to Ruaha?
An example fare from Dar es Salaam is $433 for an adult and $346 for a child aged 2 to 12, plus $39 in charges. Check the current price for your date.
Is there a public bus to the park?
There are coaches from Dar es Salaam to Iringa. Do not plan on a regular bus all the way to the park.
Do I need travel insurance for Tanzania?
Since October 2026, mandatory insurance applies on the mainland as well. The cost is $44 for up to 92 days, with exceptions for some residents.
Is this the official Ruaha transport page?
No. This is an independent guide. It is not run by TANAPA or by any airline or transport company, and it does not sell tickets.