Air Tanzania’s route from Dar es Salaam to China links Tanzania directly with Guangzhou, one of China’s biggest trading cities. For business travellers, traders and students, the Air Tanzania Dar to China flight removes the need to change planes in the Middle East or elsewhere. This guide explains the route, schedule, aircraft, booking tips and entry requirements.
The Dar es Salaam to Guangzhou route
Air Tanzania launched direct passenger flights between Dar es Salaam and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in May 2021. After a suspension, the airline resumed the route from 25 November 2023 with three flights a week. Schedule data for 2026 continues to show about three weekly flights, with some return flights from Guangzhou stopping in Zanzibar.
Air Tanzania does not fly to Beijing or Shanghai; travellers heading there connect in Guangzhou to Chinese domestic flights or high-speed trains, or fly another airline via a hub. Our article on Air Tanzania’s routes to China covers the history of the service.
Aircraft and on-board experience
The route is flown with Air Tanzania’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, which have about 262 seats with business and economy cabins. Meals are served on board, and Air Tanzania’s cabin crew provide service in both cabins. See our guide to Air Tanzania 787 business class if you are considering the premium cabin.
Booking your flight
- Book on the official Air Tanzania website, at an Air Tanzania office or through a travel agent.
- Check the flight days, as the route does not operate daily.
- Compare fare families for baggage, which matters for traders carrying goods.
- Book early around Chinese New Year, the Canton Fair seasons and Tanzanian holidays.
For more on prices and ticket options, see our guide to air ticket options from Tanzania to China.
Departure and arrival airports
Flights leave from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and arrive at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Arrive at least three hours before an international departure to allow time for check-in and document checks.
Visas and entry requirements for China
Most Tanzanian passport holders need a visa to enter China, which is applied for through the Chinese embassy or visa centre before travel. Visa rules and any transit exemptions change from time to time, so check the latest requirements with the Chinese embassy in Dar es Salaam well before booking. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
Travelling onward within China
Guangzhou has excellent onward connections: domestic flights to all major Chinese cities, high-speed trains across the country and fast links to Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Many traders also visit Guangzhou’s wholesale markets and the Canton Fair directly.
Flying from China to Tanzania
The same route works in reverse for Chinese visitors and returning Tanzanians. Our guide to flights from China to Tanzania explains the options, including connections via other airlines.
Final thoughts
Air Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam to Guangzhou service is the only direct passenger link between Tanzania and mainland China. Check the current schedule, arrange your visa early and book ahead for busy trade seasons to get the most from the route.
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