Flights UK to Dar es Salaam: Tips for Booking & Saving

If you’re looking to explore East Africa’s coastal charm, rich culture, and tropical climate, Dar es Salaam should be on your travel bucket list. Whether you’re planning a beachside holiday, a business trip, or a safari adventure in Tanzania, flying from the UK to Dar es Salaam in 2025 can be smooth and affordable — if you follow the right booking strategies.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: flights from the UK to Dar es Salaam, the best airlines to choose, booking tips, and what to expect once you land in this vibrant port city.

Why Dar es Salaam is Worth the Flight

Dar es Salaam is much more than a gateway to safaris. It’s the cultural and economic hub of Tanzania, full of contrasts — where traditional Swahili markets sit next to modern hotels and Indian Ocean beaches.

Here’s why more travellers are flying from the UK to Dar es Salaam:

• Beach Vibes: White sandy beaches like Coco Beach and Mbudya Island are perfect for relaxation.

• Cultural Diversity: A melting pot of African, Indian, and Arab influences, the city offers unique cuisine, music, and architecture.

• Business Opportunities: It’s a growing hub for finance, construction, and shipping.

• Gateway to Zanzibar & National Parks: Many travellers use Dar as a jumping-off point for Zanzibar or safaris in Serengeti and Selous.

UK Airports Offering Flights to Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam’s main international gateway is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). While there are no direct flights from the UK yet, one-stop options are frequent and reliable from the following airports:

• London Heathrow (LHR): The busiest departure point, connecting via Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and KLM.

• Manchester (MAN): Great for northern travellers, with layovers in Amsterdam, Doha, or Istanbul.

• Birmingham & Glasgow: These offer two-stop options but can be more affordable if booked early.

Best Airlines Flying UK to Dar es Salaam (2025)

Here’s a quick comparison of the top airlines operating flights from the UK to Dar es Salaam:

Airline	Route	Travel Time	Why Choose It
Qatar Airways	LHR – Doha – DAR	~14 hrs	Exceptional service, good transit times
Turkish Airlines	LHR – Istanbul – DAR	~13.5 hrs	Strong on price, reliable schedule
KLM	MAN/LHR – Amsterdam – DAR	~13–14 hrs	Efficient transfers, consistent quality
Emirates	LHR – Dubai – DAR	~15 hrs	Comfortable cabins, wide entertainment options
Ethiopian Airlines	LHR – Addis Ababa – DAR	~14 hrs	Budget-friendly, good Africa network

All these options are available on trusted booking platforms like Outlook Travel UK, where you can compare prices and timings easily.

When to Book for the Best Fares

Scoring a good deal on flights to Dar es Salaam is all about timing. Here’s what you need to know:

 ✅ Ideal time to book: 8–12 weeks in advance
✅ Cheapest months to fly: March, May, and early November
❌ Avoid: July to September (peak safari season and school holidays)
Pro Tip: Use flexible date tools on travel platforms to view entire months of pricing and find the best day to fly.

What to Expect Onboard (and What to Pack)

Long-haul flights to Dar es Salaam typically range between 13 to 15 hours including layovers. Here’s what most airlines provide:

• In-flight entertainment and meals

• Charging ports or USB access

• Free blankets and headsets

• Wi-Fi on select routes

Essentials to pack in your carry-on:

• Passport + Yellow Fever certificate (if applicable)

• Travel pillow and light scarf

• Basic toiletries and sanitizer

• Lightweight jacket (planes can get chilly)

• Refillable water bottle (fill after security)

Where to Stay in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam offers a wide range of hotels for every budget:

• Luxury: Hyatt Regency, Johari Rotana, or Serena Hotel

• Mid-range: Holiday Inn, Ramada Encore, or Coral Beach Hotel

• Budget: Sleep Inn, Hotel Nikko Tower, or local Airbnbs near Kariakoo or Masaki

Travel tip: Choose accommodation close to the city center or ferry terminal if you plan to visit Zanzibar.

Getting Around the City

Transport in Dar es Salaam is improving, though traffic can be intense during rush hours.

• Bajaji (Tuk-Tuks): Ideal for short rides in local areas

• BRT Bus Rapid Transit: Efficient for getting around central routes

• Car Hire: Best if you’re planning to explore outside the city

• Ride Apps: Bolt and Uber operate in most parts of the city

Effortless Travel Planning Made Simple

Outlook Travel simplifies your search for flights UK to Dar es Salaam by offering a one-stop platform to compare prices, dates, and airlines. Whether you’re looking for flexible ticket options or last-minute deals, Outlook Travel ensures you get both value and convenience when booking.

You can also explore hotel recommendations, travel tips, and visa guidance — all in one place.

Final Thoughts

Flying from the UK to Dar es Salaam opens up a world of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. With the right booking tips, trusted platforms like Outlook Travel, and smart planning, your Tanzanian journey can be both smooth and budget-friendly.

So pack your bags, prep your documents, and get ready to experience the warm shores and vibrant spirit of Dar es Salaam.