From Arusha to Dar Es Salaam

Hello all,

I am a little unsure of how much time to give getting back to Dar Es Salaam from Arusha after a tour of the Serengeti. If we do a 7 day tour then it would end on Friday and our flight back to the UK is on the sunday (afternoon).

Is this enough time to get from Arusha to Dar Es Salaam? I guess my concerns centre around delays either on the trip or on the journey back to Dar...

Does anyone have any advise on what method of transport to take or the length of time to get from Arusha to Dar?

thanks,

JM

There are quite a few buses that leave from Arusha each day for Dar. If all goes well, stops and a bit of traffice once reaching Dar included, the trip takes between 8-9 hours. Theres Scandinavian and Royal Bus lines which will cost you about 25$ (as of a year ago). They are known for being "slow" but thats becuase they drive safer. If your in a real rush, you could try Saibaba or theres any number of other local lines though sometimes you dont get a seat (or have to share one). Since the trip takes most of the day and buses arent allowed on the roads after dark-the last bus leaves Arusha around 10 I think.

Im not sure how else you would even go unless you would rent a car yourself. There arent trains, though flying is possible.

Safari njema

Both the bus and flying will give you plenty of time to get to Dar - even if the bus break down, you will still have all of Saturday night and Sunday morning to complete the journey. Flying only takes just over an hour, and if money isn't an issue, I would probably fly. There are several daily flights on various airlines, both from Kilimanjaro airport and from Arusha itself (anyone know if the airport is still closed for construction or whatever?). Get your (trustworthy) tour operator to arrange a bus or flight for you while you are on Safari, or do it yourself before you leave, to make sure you have a ticket when you get back on Friday.

You should have plenty of time.

Some tips: don't be scammed into paying more for your luggage. People tried to get me to do that many times. They show you a reciept pad and everything. Just say no. They won't kick you off. It does not cost extra to put it in the carrier below, which is probably where you'll be required to put it. Try to get your pack a slot in the far back. Also, don't drink a lot of water! The buses don't stop very often. Do bring food or small change for the vendors.

-Sarah-