You Might Have a Stop… or Not!
Bush flying in Africa comes with an element of surprise. While you could have a direct flight to your safari destination, there’s also a chance you’ll touch down at a few airstrips along the way. The flight routes are designed for efficiency, often making stops to drop off or pick up other passengers.
These unscheduled pauses can add to the adventure, giving you glimpses of remote airstrips and local landscapes you might not have seen otherwise. But whether it’s a direct or multi-stop journey, you’ll have plenty to enjoy from your window seat!
Luggage Space? What’s That?
Space on a bush plane is minimal. Forget about overhead bins. On bush planes, all your hand luggage will need to be kept on your lap. You might be able to squeeze a small bag or camera gear into a space at the back, but even that is limited.
To make your flight more comfortable, pack as light as possible. Most bush plane operators have strict weight limits for checked luggage as well, so consider this when packing for your trip. Traveling light ensures a smoother experience and keeps the plane within safe weight limits.
How Will I Know When It’s My Stop?
There’s no need to worry about missing your stop or figuring out when to get off the plane. The pilot, who’ll be sitting just a few feet away from you, will call out the stops. There's no separate cabin for the pilot, so you’ll hear every word as they call out the stops, and they’ll let you know when it’s time to disembark.
The proximity to the pilot also gives you a more personal experience - don’t be surprised if they even give commentary on the sights below! Bush planes are small, close-quarters environments where communication is easy.
Small, Cozy Planes
If you’re used to flying on large commercial jets, the size of a bush plane might be a shock. These planes are compact, often carrying only a handful of passengers. This intimate setup is part of the charm, making it feel more like a personal tour than a commercial flight.
The small size means you’ll have incredible views from every seat, and the low altitude provides a closer look at Tanzania’s diverse landscapes. You might even catch a glimpse of wildlife below as you fly over the plains, rivers, and forests.
Why Choose a Flying Safari in Tanzania?
African bush flying saves time and energy. Instead of spending hours driving between parks and lodges, you can reach your destination in a fraction of the time. This means more time spent exploring, relaxing, or enjoying the incredible wildlife sightings. It’s an efficient, yet adventurous way to experience the full breadth of Tanzania's natural beauty.
It’s a unique way to experience stunning landscapes and wildlife. Unlike traditional game drives, flying safaris in Tanzania allow you to cover vast distances quickly while providing an aerial perspective of the country’s most iconic sights. It’s the perfect way to explore remote areas like the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara or the Ngorongoro Crater, where ground travel would take much longer.
Pro Tip: Capture the Moment
Keep your camera in hand, ready to go. The views from a bush plane are nothing short of spectacular. It’s a chance to see and capture the beauty of Tanzania from another perspective. Whether you’re flying over the sprawling Serengeti, the winding rivers of the Selous, or the iconic peaks of Kilimanjaro, there’s always something amazing to see.
The flight might be short, but the scenery will provide lasting memories. Get some aerial shots of vast savannahs and keep your eyes out for potential wildlife sightings - this is one of the best opportunities to document your Tanzanian adventure.
Kilimanjaro mountain plane viewThe Unexpected Thrill
Bush flying in Africa isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B - it’s an adventure in itself. The feeling of boarding a small aircraft, the up-close interaction with the pilot, and the stunning aerial views along the way make it a unique and memorable part of any safari trip.
For many of our travelers, the African flying safari is one of the highlights of their visit to Tanzania. It’s a raw, unfiltered experience that brings you closer to the landscapes and the remote areas you’re exploring.
If you’re ready to embrace the spontaneity and the thrill of flying low over some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, a bush plane ride in Tanzania will not disappoint. So pack light, keep your camera ready, and enjoy the ride!
