Travelling from Kenya to Tanzania

Do You Need a Visa to Travel from Kenya to Tanzania?

Travelling from Kenya to Tanzania? Understanding the visa requirements is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Here’s what you need to know:

• Kenyan Citizens: Kenyan passport holders can enter Tanzania visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes.
• Non-Kenyan Citizens: Foreign nationals travelling from Kenya to Tanzania may require a visa, depending on nationality. Travellers should check Tanzania’s visa policy before departure.

Tanzania Visa Options for Non-Kenyan Travelers

Here are the main visa options available:

• Tanzania eVisa: Apply online before travelling for a smoother entry process. Suitable for tourism, business, and transit purposes.
• Visa on Arrival: Available at major entry points but may involve longer wait times. Recommended only if you cannot apply online in advance.
• Transit Visa: Ideal for travellers stopping in Tanzania for up to 7 days before continuing to another destination.

2. By Road (Most Affordable Option)

Many travellers choose to travel by bus, private car, or taxi from Kenya to Tanzania. Major Land Border Crossings Include:

Note: Namanga is the busiest and most commonly used border, especially for those heading to Arusha or Serengeti.

Bus Companies Operating Kenya-Tanzania Routes:

• Riverside Shuttle- Nairobi to Arusha/Moshi
• Impala Shuttle- Nairobi to Arusha/Moshi
• Tahmeed Coach- Mombasa to Dar es Salaam
• Modern Coast- Nairobi to Dar es Salaam

Book bus tickets in advance and travel during the day for safety.

3. By Train (Scenic but Slow)

There is no direct train service between Kenya and Tanzania.

Alternative Route:

• Take the SGR Train from Nairobi to Mombasa, then cross by road into Tanzania via the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border.
• Take the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) from Dar es Salaam to other parts of Tanzania.

Required Vaccinations for Travelling from Kenya to Tanzania

Some vaccinations are mandatory, while others are recommended when travelling from Kenya to Tanzania.

Mandatory Vaccination

• Yellow Fever Vaccine: Travelers coming from or transiting through a Yellow Fever-endemic country (including Kenya) must show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required at the border and airports.

Recommended Vaccinations

While not mandatory, the following vaccinations are highly recommended for travellers to Tanzania:

• Hepatitis A & B: Protects against foodborne and bloodborne infections.
• Typhoid: Recommended if you plan to eat street food or visit rural areas.
• Rabies: If engaging in outdoor activities or visiting remote regions.
• Meningitis: Advised, especially during the dry season (June to October).
• Tetanus & Diphtheria: Essential for general health protection.
• Malaria Prevention: Tanzania is a malaria-risk country. Consider taking anti-malarial medication, using mosquito repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

Border Crossing Procedures: What to Expect

At the Border (Road & Bus Travelers):

• Arrive at the Kenyan border post (e.g., Namanga, Isebania).
• Get an exit stamp from Kenya Immigration.
• Walk or drive to the Tanzanian side.
• Show your passport and visa to the Immigration.
• Pay the visa fee (if required).
• Receive your entry stamp and proceed into Tanzania.

Tip: Carry USD cash if applying for a Visa on Arrival, as card payments may not be available.

Currency & Payments at the Kenya-Tanzania Border

When crossing the Kenya-Tanzania border, understanding currency exchange and payment options is essential to ensure a smooth journey.

Accepted Currencies

• Tanzanian Shilling (TZS): The official currency of Tanzania used for daily transactions
• Kenyan Shilling (KES): Some businesses near the border, especially at Namanga, may accept KES, but exchange rates may not be favourable.
• US Dollars (USD): Widely accepted for visa fees, hotels and tourist services. Ensure your USD notes are in good condition and printed after 2006, as older or damaged bills may not be accepted.

Currency Exchange

• Border Exchange Bureaus: Both Namanga and other major border crossings have exchange offices where you can convert KES, USD, or other major currencies into TZS.
• Banks: Some border towns have bank branches that offer currency exchange services, though they may have limited hours of operation.
• Mobile Money & Digital Payments: Mobile money services such as M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and Tigo Pesa are widely used in both Kenya and Tanzania.

Payment Methods

• Cash: Always carry some Tanzanian shillings, essential for small vendors and transport services.
• Cards: Accepted at larger hotels, restuarants and supermarkets. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted.
• ATMs: Available in major towns like Arusha and Moshi, where you can withdraw TZS using international cards.

Travel Tips for Kenya-Tanzania Border Crossings

With proper preparation, travellers can enjoy a smooth journey between Kenya and Tanzania. Follow these key travel tips for crossing the Kenya-Tanzania border.

Best Destinations in Tanzania After Crossing from Kenya

Travelling from Kenya to Tanzania offers diverse landscapes, from wildlife-rich savannas to coastal paradises. Depending on your border entry point, here are some top destinations to explore:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Kenyan SIM Card While Travelling in Tanzania?

Yes, Kenyan SIM cards may work in Tanzania through international roaming, but roaming charges can be high. Many travellers choose to buy a local Tanzanian SIM card at the border or in major towns for cheaper data and calls. Major networks include Vodacom, Airtel, and Tigo.

Is Passport Validity Important When Travelling from Kenya to Tanzania?

Yes. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Tanzania and have at least one blank page for entry stamps. Travellers with damaged or near-expiry passports may be denied entry.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in October 2026, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.