Arusha Airport (ARK)

Arusha Airport (ARK) acts as the domestic nerve center for Tanzania's safari tourism, conveniently located on the western outskirts of the city of Arusha. While international long-haul flights land at the larger Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) roughly 50 kilometers away, ARK is the primary launchpad for light aircraft heading to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar. The terminal is a compact, bustling facility that often teems with travelers in safari gear during the morning departure peak. Its layout is simple, with open-air waiting areas and check-in counters specifically designed for the high-volume, quick-turnaround operations of bush pilots.

Operational procedures at Arusha Airport are distinct from major international hubs. The airlines here, such as Coastal Aviation, Regional Air, and Precision Air, operate smaller turboprops like the Cessna Grand Caravan and ATR 42/72. Consequently, baggage weight restrictions are strictly enforced, and passengers are often weighed alongside their luggage. Security screening is present at the terminal entrance and before the boarding area, but the overall atmosphere is more informal. Boarding involves a short walk across the tarmac to the waiting aircraft, offering great photo opportunities of Mount Meru in the background.

Amenities are tailored to the transit nature of the airport. There is a popular coffee shop serving fresh Tanzanian brew and light snacks, along with several souvenir stalls selling local crafts and artifacts. Seating is available both indoors and in a covered outdoor area. Travelers should be aware that transfers between ARK and JRO require a road journey of approximately 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic, so ample time should be buffered when connecting between international arrivals and domestic safari flights.