Tanzania Border Crossing Guide

Essential information about Tanzania's border crossings, entry procedures, and requirements for smooth international travel.

Tanzania Border Crossing Checkpoint

Tanzania Entry Points

Air Entry Points

Major International Airports:
  • Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) - Dar es Salaam
  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) - Moshi/Arusha
  • Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) - Zanzibar
  • Mwanza Airport (MWZ)
Note: All international airports accept eVisa and visa on arrival.

Land Border Crossings

Major Land Borders:
  • Namanga - Kenya border (Arusha region)
  • Sirari - Kenya border (Mara region)
  • Tunduma - Zambia border
  • Kasumulu - Malawi border
  • Mutukula - Uganda border
  • Kabanga - Burundi border
Important: Check border operating hours before travel.

Sea Entry Points

Major Ports:
  • Dar es Salaam Port - Main commercial port
  • Zanzibar Port - Stone Town
  • Mtwara Port - Southern Tanzania
  • Tanga Port - Northern coast
Tip: Ferry services operate between Zanzibar and mainland.

Border Crossing Procedures

Entry Requirements

Essential Documents:
  • Valid Passport: At least 6 months validity
  • Valid Visa: eVisa or visa on arrival
  • Yellow Fever Certificate: If coming from endemic areas
  • Return Ticket: Proof of onward travel
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or invitation
Health Requirements:
  • Yellow fever vaccination (if applicable)
  • COVID-19 requirements (check current status)
  • Health declaration forms

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Approach Border: Follow signs to immigration
  2. Document Check: Present passport and visa
  3. Immigration Interview: Answer questions about your visit
  4. Stamp Entry: Receive entry stamp in passport
  5. Customs Declaration: Declare goods if required
  6. Health Screening: If applicable
  7. Proceed: Enter Tanzania
Processing Time: 15-45 minutes depending on queue and documentation.

Border Operating Hours

Border Crossing Country Operating Hours Notes
Namanga Kenya 24 hours Busiest crossing, expect queues
Sirari Kenya 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Popular for Serengeti access
Tunduma Zambia 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Main southern border
Kasumulu Malawi 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Lake region access
Mutukula Uganda 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Northwestern border

Tips for Smooth Border Crossing

Do's

  • Apply for eVisa in advance to avoid delays
  • Carry all documents in original form
  • Have sufficient cash for fees (USD preferred)
  • Arrive during operating hours
  • Be patient and polite with officials
  • Keep vaccination certificates handy
  • Have contact details of accommodation

Don'ts

  • Don't arrive without proper documentation
  • Don't carry prohibited items
  • Don't attempt to bribe officials
  • Don't take photos at border posts
  • Don't argue with immigration officers
  • Don't carry expired documents
  • Don't exceed currency limits without declaration

Prepare for Your Tanzania Entry

Get your eVisa ready before traveling to ensure smooth border crossing at any entry point.

Apply for eVisa