Are There Direct Flights Between Entebbe and Zanzibar?

The dream of combining a Ugandan wildlife adventure with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar has become one of the most popular travel itineraries in East Africa. After days spent trekking through misty forests to see mountain gorillas or gliding along the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park, many travelers long for a tranquil escape on the white sands of the Indian Ocean. Naturally, the question arises: Are there direct flights between Entebbe and Zanzibar? The answer is yes—direct flights now connect these two incredible destinations, making it easier than ever to blend the wild heart of Uganda with the tropical charm of Tanzania’s most famous island.

The Beauty of an Entebbe–Zanzibar Journey

Entebbe International Airport, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, is Uganda’s main international gateway. It’s a hub for travelers arriving for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, or game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Zanzibar, meanwhile, sits off the coast of Tanzania as a world-renowned island paradise, known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, spice plantations, and the historical allure of Stone Town.

A journey between Entebbe and Zanzibar is not just a transfer between two places—it’s a transition between worlds. From the green highlands and forested mountains of Uganda, you descend into the humid, palm-fringed coastline of East Africa’s Indian Ocean. The route itself has become a favorite among honeymooners, families, and adventure travelers who want to experience both the safari and the sea without the hassle of long layovers or multiple connections.

Direct Flight Options from Entebbe to Zanzibar

Direct air connectivity between Uganda and Zanzibar has improved significantly in recent years. As of now, several airlines operate non-stop or short direct flights between Entebbe International Airport (EBB) and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. These flights typically take about two hours, making the journey fast, easy, and convenient.

1. Uganda Airlines

Uganda’s national carrier, Uganda Airlines, operates regular direct flights between Entebbe and Zanzibar. These flights are among the most reliable options, offering a comfortable, short connection that eliminates the need to transit through Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, or Kilimanjaro.

Uganda Airlines’ schedule often includes two to four flights per week, depending on the season and demand. The aircraft are modern, the service is efficient, and the route caters primarily to leisure travelers connecting safari circuits in Uganda with beach destinations in Tanzania.

Typical flight duration: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes
Frequency: Multiple weekly flights
Aircraft: CRJ-900 regional jets

Flying with Uganda Airlines offers the added benefit of convenient domestic connections within Uganda. Travelers can connect from other Ugandan destinations like Kihihi (near Bwindi) or Kasese (near Queen Elizabeth National Park) to Entebbe, then continue directly to Zanzibar.

2. Air Tanzania

Air Tanzania, the Tanzanian national carrier, also operates direct flights between Entebbe and Zanzibar. These flights typically run several times a week, depending on seasonality and demand. Air Tanzania’s route network connects Zanzibar to major East African cities, making it a strong alternative for travelers flying from Uganda.

Flights are non-stop and provide a seamless experience for those who wish to go directly to Zanzibar without transiting through the mainland. This option is especially popular with travelers ending their Uganda safaris and heading straight to the island to unwind.

Typical flight duration: Around 2 hours
Frequency: 2–3 times weekly

3. Charter and Seasonal Flights

In addition to scheduled airlines, several charter operators and tour companies organize private or group charter flights between Entebbe and Zanzibar. These flights are ideal for larger groups, honeymooners, or travelers who want maximum flexibility in timing.

During peak tourism months (June to October and December to February), seasonal flights may be added by smaller regional carriers such as Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, or Precision Air via brief stopovers. These charters can often land at smaller airstrips in Zanzibar or even on nearby islands like Pemba for exclusive resort access.

Indirect Routes and Alternatives

While direct flights are available, travelers can also choose connecting routes via Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, or Kilimanjaro International Airport if direct flight schedules don’t align with their itinerary.

Via Nairobi (Kenya Airways)

Many travelers fly from Entebbe to Zanzibar with a short layover in Nairobi using Kenya Airways or its partner, Precision Air. The connection is smooth, with Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport serving as a central hub for East African routes.

Travel time: 4–5 hours total (including a short stop in Nairobi)

Via Dar es Salaam (Air Tanzania or Precision Air)

Another option is to fly from Entebbe to Dar es Salaam, then take a short 25-minute domestic flight or ferry to Zanzibar. This route can be useful for travelers who wish to explore mainland Tanzania before heading to the coast.

Travel time: 3–5 hours, depending on connections

While indirect routes may take longer, they sometimes offer greater schedule flexibility and opportunities to explore other destinations along the way.

What to Expect During the Flight

Flying from Entebbe to Zanzibar is a scenic experience in itself. Shortly after takeoff, the view reveals Lake Victoria—the world’s largest tropical lake—shimmering beneath the clouds. As you cross over Tanzania, the landscape changes dramatically: rolling savannas give way to volcanic highlands, and finally, as you descend, the Indian Ocean appears—a vast expanse of turquoise fringed with coral reefs and white sand.

Most flights serve light refreshments or snacks, and the two-hour journey is smooth. Upon arrival in Zanzibar, you’ll disembark at the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, located just outside Stone Town. The airport is small but modern and efficient, with quick immigration and customs procedures for international arrivals.

Travel Documents and Entry Requirements

Because the Entebbe–Zanzibar route crosses an international border, travelers must carry valid travel documents and comply with Tanzanian immigration rules. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A valid passport (at least six months before expiry).

• A Tanzania tourist visa, which can be obtained online in advance through the official Tanzanian e-visa portal or on arrival for eligible nationalities.

• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, as both Uganda and Tanzania are considered Yellow Fever risk areas.

If you are continuing your trip between Uganda and Zanzibar as part of a safari itinerary, make sure your travel agent or safari company assists with these details to avoid any delays at the airport.

Best Time to Travel Between Entebbe and Zanzibar

Flights operate year-round, but the best time to combine Uganda and Zanzibar depends on your interests.

• June to October: This is the dry season in both Uganda and Tanzania, making it ideal for safaris and beach holidays. Gorilla trekking is at its best, and Zanzibar enjoys sunny skies and calm seas.

• December to February: Another excellent window for combining the two destinations. Uganda’s forests are accessible, and Zanzibar’s beaches are warm and vibrant.

• March to May: The long rains affect both countries during this period, leading to fewer tourists and lower prices. While it’s still possible to travel, beach conditions can be unpredictable.

The Ultimate Safari–Beach Combination

The beauty of the Entebbe–Zanzibar connection lies in how perfectly the two destinations complement each other. Uganda offers lush green jungles, dramatic waterfalls, and intimate wildlife experiences like gorilla tracking, chimpanzee trekking, and game drives. After days of adventure, flying to Zanzibar offers a gentle shift in tempo—sun-drenched beaches, soothing ocean breezes, and cultural experiences in Stone Town and the spice plantations.

It’s one of East Africa’s most complete travel combinations: the wild and the serene, the forest and the sea, the thrill and the tranquility—all within a two-hour flight.

Why Book with Muhiga Safaris

Planning a multi-country journey across East Africa involves coordinating flights, permits, park entries, and transfers—details that can easily become overwhelming. That’s where Muhiga Safaris comes in. As an experienced East African tour operator, Muhiga Safaris designs seamless itineraries that blend Uganda’s wilderness with Zanzibar’s idyllic coastline.

Their team handles every detail of your journey, including flight bookings between Entebbe and Zanzibar, airport transfers, and customized safari experiences. Whether you want to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi, explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, or end your trip with a luxurious beach stay in Zanzibar, Muhiga Safaris ensures everything flows effortlessly.

They work with trusted airline partners and lodges, ensuring you travel safely and comfortably from the heart of the jungle to the edge of the ocean. For travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and authentic East African charm, Muhiga Safaris is your ideal partner.