AFCON Tanzania 2027

AFCON 2027 FAQ — Every Question Fans Are Asking Answered

Every question fans are asking about AFCON 2027 — answered directly. From tickets and dates to host cities, stadiums and how to watch, this is the complete reference guide for TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027.

The Basics

When does AFCON 2027 start?

AFCON 2027 starts on 19 June 2027 with the opening match at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

When does AFCON 2027 end?

AFCON 2027 ends on 17 July 2027 with the final. The tournament runs for 29 days across three co-host nations.

Which country is hosting AFCON 2027?

Three countries are co-hosting AFCON 2027 — Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda — under the name TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027. PAMOJA means “together” in Swahili. It is the first time AFCON has been co-hosted by more than one nation.

Why is it called PAMOJA 2027?

PAMOJA is the Swahili word for “together.” The name reflects the three-nation East African co-hosting arrangement and Tanzania’s lead host status. It is the most significant AFCON branding innovation since CAF rebranded the tournament in 2019.

When was the last time East Africa hosted AFCON?

1976 — when Ethiopia hosted the tournament. AFCON 2027 ends a 51-year wait for East African football fans.

How many teams are at AFCON 2027?

24 teams — the same format used since AFCON 2019. Three co-host nations qualify automatically. The remaining 21 teams qualify through the qualifying campaign which runs from September 2026 to March 2027.

How many matches are played at AFCON 2027?

52 matches in total — 36 group stage matches, 8 Round of 16, 4 Quarter-finals, 2 Semi-finals, 1 Third Place play-off and 1 Final.

Host Cities and Stadiums

Where are the AFCON 2027 matches being played?

Matches are played across seven stadiums in three countries:

Where is the AFCON 2027 opening match?

The opening match is at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on 19 June 2027. It is expected to feature Tanzania Taifa Stars as the lead host nation.

Where is the AFCON 2027 final?

The final venue has not been officially confirmed by CAF. Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam — the largest venue at 60,000 capacity — is the most likely host for the final on 17 July 2027.

Is AFCON 2027 really being played in Zanzibar?

Yes — confirmed. AFCON 2027 will be the first Africa Cup of Nations in history to play matches on an island. Zanzibar hosts group stage matches at both the Fumba City Stadium (36,500) and the renovated New Amaan Sports Complex (15,000). For the complete guide see our AFCON 2027 Zanzibar guide.

How far is Benjamin Mkapa Stadium from the city centre?

Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is in Miburani ward, Temeke District — approximately 6km from Dar es Salaam city centre and 15km from the Msasani and Masaki hotel areas. Use Bolt or Uber to get there. Do not walk from the stadium area at night.

Tickets

How much are AFCON 2027 tickets?

Official prices have not been confirmed by CAF. Based on AFCON 2025 pricing in Morocco, group stage tickets are expected to cost $10 to $50 USD (26,500 to 132,500 TZS / 1,290 to 6,450 KES / 37,500 to 187,500 UGX) depending on category. See our complete ticket prices guide for the full breakdown.

When do AFCON 2027 tickets go on sale?

CAF has not confirmed the official sale date. Based on previous tournaments, tickets are expected to go on sale between August and October 2026 via the official CAF ticketing portal at tickets.cafonline.com. See our ticket release date guide for full details.

How do I buy AFCON 2027 tickets?

Based on AFCON 2025 the process is:

1. Download the official CAF tournament app when launched
2. Register for a Fan ID — mandatory before any purchase
3. Add a Visa card for exclusive 48-hour presale access
4. Buy at tickets.cafonline.com when sales open
5. Access your digital ticket via the app on match day

See our complete step by step ticket buying guide for everything you need to know.

Can I buy AFCON 2027 tickets now?

No. Official sales have not opened as of June 2026. Any website claiming to sell AFCON 2027 tickets right now is fraudulent. Register your CAF account at tickets.cafonline.com now so you are ready the moment sales open.

Will Tanzania home matches sell out?

Yes — very quickly. Tanzania vs Nigeria and Tanzania vs Algeria at a sold-out 60,000-capacity Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will be among the most in-demand tickets in the tournament. Expect Phase 1 Visa presale tickets to sell out within hours.

How many tickets can I buy?

Based on AFCON 2025 — one ticket per match per Fan ID, maximum four tickets per transaction, maximum 30 tickets per user across the whole tournament. Each ticket is personalised and non-transferable.

Are there cheaper tickets for Tanzania residents?

CAF offered resident pricing at AFCON 2025 in Morocco. A similar provision is expected for Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan residents for AFCON 2027. Official confirmation will come when the ticketing portal opens.

Groups and Fixtures

Which group is Tanzania in?

Tanzania are in Group L alongside Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar. As co-hosts Tanzania qualify automatically regardless of their qualifying results. See our complete Group L guide.

When are Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 matches?

What are the kick-off times for AFCON 2027 matches?

CAF has not confirmed all kick-off times. Based on AFCON 2025, matches are typically played at three daily slots in East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3):

When does AFCON 2027 qualifying start?

The qualifying campaign runs across three windows — Matchdays 1 and 2 (21 September to 6 October 2026), Matchdays 3 and 4 (9 to 17 November 2026) and the final Matchdays 5 and 6 (22 to 30 March 2027).

Travel and Practical

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Most African nationals can apply for a Tanzania eVisa online at visa.immigration.go.tz. Cost is $50 USD for a single entry visa. Apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel. See our complete practical info guide.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate for Tanzania?

Only if you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country — including Nigeria, Ghana, DR Congo, Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire. If flying from these countries your yellow fever certificate is mandatory at Tanzania immigration. See our health guide for the full list.

How much does it cost to attend AFCON 2027?

A realistic budget for a single fan attending 3 to 4 matches:

See our complete budget guide for the full breakdown including flights, accommodation, food and transport in TZS, KES and UGX.

Which airlines fly to Dar es Salaam?

25 airlines serve Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) including Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, EgyptAir and Oman Air. See our complete flights guide.

Where should I stay in Dar es Salaam?

The best areas for AFCON 2027 fans are Msasani, Masaki and Oyster Bay on the Msasani Peninsula. Note that Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is in Temeke — 15km from these hotel areas. Use Bolt or Uber to the stadium on match days. See our complete accommodation guide.

Is Tanzania safe for AFCON 2027 fans?

Yes — with standard precautions. Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. The main risks are opportunistic petty crime — pickpocketing and phone snatching — rather than violence. Use Bolt exclusively, avoid walking alone at night outside tourist areas and keep valuables secure. See our complete safety guide.

What currency should I use in Tanzania?

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency. USD is widely accepted at hotels, safari operators and major restaurants. Fan zones and street food vendors are cash TZS only. Current rate: approximately 1 USD = 2,600 TZS. See our money guide for ATMs, exchange and daily budgets.

Which SIM card should I buy in Tanzania?

Vodacom is the market leader with the best 4G and 5G coverage across Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar. Yas (formerly Tigo) is a strong second. Buy at the airport on arrival — bring your passport for mandatory SIM registration. See our SIM card guide.

Watching AFCON 2027

How do I watch AFCON 2027 on TV?

Confirmed broadcast partners include TBC Tanzania (free to air), KBC Kenya (free to air), SuperSport on DStv and GOtv across Africa, beIN Sports in North Africa, MENA and USA, and Channel 4 in the UK (based on AFCON 2025 rights). See our complete broadcast guide by country.

Can I watch AFCON 2027 for free?

Yes — if you are in Tanzania, Kenya or the UK. TBC Tanzania and KBC Kenya both broadcast free to air. In the UK Channel 4 is expected to hold rights as it did for AFCON 2025 — free on TV and streaming. Fans in the USA and most other territories require a subscription to beIN Sports or equivalent.

Where can I watch AFCON 2027 in Tanzania without a ticket?

Fan zones across Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar will screen all matches on giant outdoor screens free of charge. The Slipway complex in Msasani is the main fan zone in DSM. See our complete Where to Watch guide.

AFCON 2027 Records and History

Who has won the most AFCONs?

Egypt — with 7 titles (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010). The top five:

Who won AFCON 2025?

Morocco won AFCON 2025 on home soil, defeating Egypt in the final. Nigeria finished third, beating Egypt in the bronze medal match.

Has Tanzania ever won AFCON?

No. Tanzania have appeared at four AFCONs — 1980, 2019, 2023 and 2025 — and have never progressed beyond the group stage. AFCON 2027 on home soil is the most significant tournament in Tanzania football history.

Still Have Questions?

If your question is not answered here visit our contact page and we will answer it directly. We update this FAQ regularly as new information is confirmed by CAF.

For the complete AFCON 2027 Tanzania planning guide — tickets, flights, accommodation, safety and match day tips — visit our practical info page. For the full fixture list visit our fixtures page. For ticket information visit our tickets guide.

Last updated: June 2026. All information based on CAF official announcements and verified sources. This page is updated as new details are confirmed.

How to Start a Business Near Mkapa Stadium for AFCON 2027 — Complete Guide for Tanzanian Entrepreneurs

AFCON 2027 brings 60,000 fans to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for every Tanzania home match. That is 60,000 people who need food, drinks, transport, services and products — and most of them will be spending money within walking distance of the stadium. For Tanzanian entrepreneurs this is the most significant local business opportunity in a generation. Here is exactly how to set up legally and position yourself to capture it.

The Opportunity

Tanzania is expected to receive 300,000 tourists per day during AFCON 2027. Benjamin Mkapa Stadium hosts Tanzania’s three group stage matches plus knockout rounds — potentially five or more matches in total. Each match brings 60,000 fans to Temeke District, the majority spending money before and after the game.

Beyond match days the tournament runs 29 days — 19 June to 17 July 2027. Fans staying in Dar es Salaam for multiple matches generate daily spending throughout that entire period.

Business Ideas Near Mkapa Stadium

Step 1 — Register Your Business with BRELA

Every business operating legally in Tanzania must be registered with the Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA). This is your first step before applying for any other permit or licence.

How to register:

• Visit brela.go.tz to register online or visit the BRELA office in Dar es Salaam
• Choose your business structure — sole proprietorship is simplest for a single-person operation
• Submit your national ID, proposed business name and business address
• Pay the registration fee — approximately TZS 30,000 to 50,000
• Receive your Certificate of Registration

Keep your BRELA certificate — you will need it for every subsequent application.

Step 2 — Get Your Trading Licence

A trading licence from the relevant local authority is required to operate any commercial activity in Tanzania. For businesses near Benjamin Mkapa Stadium the relevant authority is Temeke Municipal Council.

How to apply:

• Visit Temeke Municipal Council offices with your BRELA certificate and national ID
• Apply for a business licence appropriate to your activity
• Pay the licence fee — varies by business type, budget TZS 50,000 to 200,000 per year
• Receive your trading licence

Do not operate without a trading licence during AFCON 2027. Enforcement around the stadium will be significantly heightened and unlicensed vendors risk having their goods confiscated.

Step 3 — Register with the AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee

This is the most important step for any business wanting to trade in official match day zones around Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. The AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee (LOC) manages all official vendor positions, concession rights and business permits within the tournament perimeter.

Only LOC-registered vendors can trade in official stadium zones on match days. Unregistered vendors in restricted zones will be removed by security.

How to register:

• Contact the Tanzania Football Federation at tff.or.tz
• Follow @TFF_Tz on Twitter/X — LOC vendor registration announcements will come through official channels
• Prepare your BRELA certificate and trading licence for the application
• Apply as early as possible — official vendor positions are limited

LOC vendor registration has not yet opened as of June 2026. Follow TFF channels for the announcement — this window will be competitive and short.

Step 4 — Plan Your Setup and Infrastructure

The area around Mkapa Stadium in Temeke is a local residential and commercial district — not a tourist zone with ready-made infrastructure. Plan your setup independently.

Step 5 — Price Your Services Right

Visiting fans from Nigeria, Algeria, Morocco and across Africa will be price-sensitive but willing to pay a fair rate for genuine convenience. Overpricing damages Tanzania’s reputation as a host. Underpricing leaves money on the table.

General pricing guidance for match day services near the stadium:

• Price in TZS — always display prices clearly in Tanzanian Shillings
• Have USD equivalents available for international fans who ask
• Keep prices consistent — do not charge different amounts to different nationalities
• Have change ready for TZS 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 notes — most transactions will be cash
• Accept Mobile Money — display your number visibly

Match Day Preparation

Tanzania home matches at Mkapa Stadium: 20 June, 24 June and 28 June 2027. Each brings 60,000 fans through Temeke District.

Advertising Your Business to AFCON Fans

Once your business is set up, reaching the thousands of international fans arriving in Dar es Salaam is your next challenge. AFCON Tanzania Guide reaches fans actively planning their AFCON 2027 trip — exactly your target audience.

We offer advertising options for local businesses targeting AFCON 2027 visitors . To discuss listing your business visit our contact page.

Key Contacts

For the full AFCON 2027 business and investment overview see our business and investment guide. For match dates and the tournament schedule see our fixtures page. For everything about Benjamin Mkapa Stadium see our stadiums guide.

Regulatory requirements based on Tanzania Business Licensing Act and BRELA registration process as of June 2026. LOC vendor registration process to be confirmed by CAF and TFF — follow official channels for announcements.

AFCON 2027 Host Country — Which Country is Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations?

Which Country Is Hosting AFCON 2027?

Three countries are hosting AFCON 2027 — Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. The tournament runs from 19 June to 17 July 2027 under the name TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027. PAMOJA means “together” in Swahili — reflecting the first ever co-hosted AFCON in the tournament’s history.

Why Three Countries?

AFCON 2027 is the first edition of the Africa Cup of Nations ever co-hosted by more than one nation. CAF awarded the tournament to the joint East African bid in 2022, selecting Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda over rival bids. The PAMOJA co-hosting arrangement reflects East Africa’s collective ambition to host the continent’s greatest football tournament and share the economic and tourism benefits across the region.

All three co-host nations qualify automatically for the final tournament — they do not need to go through the qualifying process regardless of their results in the qualifying campaign.

Tanzania — The Lead Host

Tanzania hosts the most matches of the three nations and is the tournament’s symbolic and operational centrepiece. As the largest co-host by venue count — four stadiums across three cities — Tanzania carries the highest profile matches including the opening ceremony and potentially the final.

Tanzania is placed in Group L alongside Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar. All Tanzania home matches are played at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam — a 60,000-capacity venue currently undergoing major renovation, 95% complete as of June 2026.

Tanzania Host Cities

Kenya — Co-host

Kenya hosts matches in Nairobi at two venues — the brand new Talanta Stadium (60,000 capacity, 91% complete as of June 2026) and the renovated Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani (48,000). Kenya is in Group D of qualifying alongside South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea — and qualifies automatically as co-host regardless of their qualifying results.

Nairobi serves as the primary entry hub for many AFCON 2027 visitors — Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is one of Africa’s best-connected airports with direct flights from across the continent and beyond.

Uganda — Co-host

Uganda hosts matches in Kampala at Mandela National Stadium (45,000), currently undergoing renovation for AFCON 2027. Uganda is in Group H of qualifying alongside Tunisia, Libya and Botswana — and also qualifies automatically as co-host.

Uganda’s tourism highlight for visiting fans is mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — one of the rarest wildlife experiences on earth and within reach of Kampala for fans attending matches there.

Is AFCON 2027 Definitely Going Ahead?

Yes — confirmed. CAF President Patrice Motsepe has been unequivocal: “I know AFCON will be staged here. We have done a lot to have AFCON held in East Africa and our commitment remains.” Tanzania and Uganda have paid their required CAF hosting fees. Stadium construction is well advanced across all three nations — Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha is over 80% complete and Kenya’s Talanta Stadium in Nairobi has reached 91% completion.

Why East Africa — The PAMOJA Story

The last time AFCON was held in East Africa was 1976 — when Ethiopia hosted. That is a 51-year wait. An entire generation of East African football fans have watched every AFCON held in West Africa, North Africa and Southern Africa — never at home. PAMOJA 2027 ends that wait.

The economic impact is equally significant. The tournament is projected to generate over $2 billion in combined economic impact across Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Over 300,000 tourists per day are expected in Tanzania during the tournament period.

AFCON 2027 Key Facts

Attending AFCON 2027

For fans planning to attend — tickets, visas and flights need to be sorted well in advance. Here is where to start:

• Tickets — not yet on sale as of June 2026. Expected August–October 2026 via tickets.cafonline.com. See our complete ticket buying guide.
• Visa — Tanzania eVisa available at visa.immigration.go.tz for most African nations. $50 USD single entry. Apply 3–4 weeks ahead. See our practical info guide.
• Flights — 25 airlines serve Dar es Salaam. Book now — tournament period fares will be 2x to 3x normal. See our flights guide.
• Accommodation — book immediately. Hotels near Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will sell out months ahead. See our Dar es Salaam accommodation guide.

For the complete host cities and dates breakdown visit our host countries and dates guide. For all seven AFCON 2027 stadiums see our stadiums guide. For the full fixture list see our fixtures page.

All information sourced from CAF official announcements, Tanzania Football Federation and verified stadium construction data as of June 2026.

How to Buy AFCON 2027 Tickets — Step by Step Guide

AFCON 2027 tickets are not on sale yet — but the process to buy them starts now. Based on exactly how CAF sold tickets for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, this is the complete step by step guide to securing your seats for Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Every fan who reads this before sales open has a significant advantage over those who do not.

When Do AFCON 2027 Tickets Go On Sale?

CAF has not confirmed the official AFCON 2027 ticket sale date. Based on AFCON 2025 — where tickets went on sale in September 2025 for a December 2025 tournament — sales for AFCON 2027 are expected to open between August and October 2026.

The exact date will be announced by CAF via their official channels. The only way to guarantee you hear the moment sales open:

• Register at tickets.cafonline.com and turn on all email notifications
• Follow @CAF_Online on Twitter/X — sale announcements go live there first
• Bookmark this page — updated immediately when CAF confirms the date

The Complete Step by Step Process

Step 1 — Download the Official CAF App

For AFCON 2025 CAF launched the YALLA app — a dedicated tournament app combining Fan ID registration, ticketing and e-visa in one place. CAF is expected to launch a similar dedicated app for AFCON 2027.

Download the official CAF app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store the moment it is announced. Do not download any other app claiming to be the official AFCON 2027 app — there will be fake apps. The only official source is CAF’s announcement via cafonline.com.

Step 2 — Register for Your Fan ID

This is the most important step and the one most fans leave too late. A Fan ID is mandatory to purchase AFCON tickets. You cannot buy tickets without one — not in the presale, not in the general sale, not at any stage.

For AFCON 2025 the Fan ID was created through the YALLA app. Each Fan ID allowed the purchase of one ticket per match. Tickets were personalised — linked to the specific person whose Fan ID was used — and non-transferable.

What you need to register your Fan ID:

• Your full name — exactly as it appears on your passport or national ID
• Your date of birth
• Your passport or national ID number
• A clear face photo — taken within the app
• Your email address
• Your phone number

Critical: Your name must match your identity document exactly. At AFCON 2025 stadium entry involved face verification against the Fan ID photo. Any mismatch caused problems at the gate.

Step 3 — Add a Visa Card for Presale Access

Visa is CAF’s official payment partner for AFCON tournaments. For AFCON 2025 Visa cardholders received an exclusive 48-hour presale window before the general public — two full days to buy tickets before anyone without a Visa card could access them.

For the most in-demand matches — Tanzania home games, Nigeria fixtures, semi-finals — those 48 hours are the difference between getting tickets at face value and paying 3x on the secondary market.

Add your Visa card as the payment method in your CAF account now. If you do not have a Visa card, get one before sales open. This is the single most valuable preparation step you can take.

Step 4 — Understand the Sale Phases

CAF releases tickets in multiple phases. Based on AFCON 2025 the structure was:

The practical implication: Phase 1 Visa presale is when Tanzania matches sell out. If you are attending Tanzania vs Nigeria or Tanzania vs Algeria — you need a Visa card and you need to be buying in Phase 1. Waiting for Phase 3 means paying secondary market prices or not going at all.

Step 5 — Buy Your Tickets

When the sale window opens go directly to tickets.cafonline.com. Log in with your registered account. Select your match, category and number of tickets.

Practical tips for the moment sales open:

• Log in 10 minutes early — do not be navigating to the site when the window opens
• Have your payment details saved — every second counts when demand is high
• Have a backup match ready — if your first choice is sold out move immediately to your second choice
• Do not refresh excessively — if you are in a virtual queue, refreshing loses your place
• Buy Category 3 if Category 1 is gone — being there matters more than where you sit

Step 6 — Access Your Digital Ticket

All AFCON tickets are fully digital. There are no physical tickets. No collection points on match day. Your ticket lives in the official CAF app linked to your Fan ID.

On match day:

1. Open the official CAF app before you leave your hotel
2. Have your digital ticket QR code ready
3. Arrive at least 90 minutes before kick-off — stadium entry at large AFCON venues takes time
4. At the gate your face is verified against your Fan ID photo
5. Your QR code is scanned at the turnstile
6. Keep your phone charged — a dead phone means no ticket

Ticket Prices — What to Expect

Official AFCON 2027 prices not yet confirmed. Based on AFCON 2025 Morocco pricing adjusted for East Africa:

Exchange rates: 1 USD = 2,650 TZS · 1 USD = 129 KES · 1 USD = 3,750 UGX. June 2026.

The Matches That Sell Out First

Not all AFCON 2027 matches carry equal demand. These will sell out in Phase 1 — some within hours:

Ticket Limits — How Many Can You Buy?

Based on AFCON 2025:

• 1 ticket per match per Fan ID — each registered Fan ID can buy one ticket per individual match
• Maximum 4 tickets per transaction — you can buy for up to 4 people in one purchase if you have their Fan ID details
• Maximum 30 tickets total per user across the entire tournament

If you are travelling as a group every person needs their own Fan ID registered before the sale opens. Do not leave this to the last minute — Fan ID verification can take 24 to 48 hours.

How to Avoid Fake Tickets

• Only buy from tickets.cafonline.com — the one and only official source. No exceptions.
• Any site selling AFCON 2027 tickets now is fraudulent — official sales have not opened
• Never buy from individuals on WhatsApp, Facebook or Twitter
• Never pay by bank transfer to an individual — zero buyer protection
• Tickets are non-transferable — a ticket bought in someone else’s name will not work at the gate
• Fake apps will appear — only download apps announced via cafonline.com

Accessibility Tickets

CAF provides dedicated tickets for fans with reduced mobility. For AFCON 2025 two categories were available — wheelchair accessibility (dedicated space, no seat provided) and accessibility without wheelchair (adapted easily accessible seat). Both required purchase of an accompanying ticket. Apply via the accessibility tab at tickets.cafonline.com when the portal opens.

What To Do Right Now — Before Sales Open

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy AFCON 2027 tickets now?

No. Official sales have not opened as of June 2026. Any site claiming to sell AFCON 2027 tickets now is not legitimate. Register your CAF account and wait for the official announcement.

Do I need a Fan ID?

Based on AFCON 2025 — yes, mandatory. A Fan ID is required before you can purchase any ticket. Register yours as early as possible.

What if I do not have a Visa card?

You can still buy tickets in the general sale using Mastercard or other accepted payment methods. You will not have access to the exclusive 48-hour Visa presale window. For Tanzania home matches this significantly reduces your chances of getting tickets at face value.

Are tickets transferable?

No. For AFCON 2025 tickets were personalised and linked to the specific Fan ID of the buyer. The same policy is expected for AFCON 2027. Never buy a ticket registered in someone else’s name.

Will there be tickets on the door?

No. All AFCON tickets are digital and purchased in advance. There are no physical ticket counters on match day.

What if my match is cancelled?

CAF’s standard policy is a full refund for cancelled matches. Terms will be confirmed when the official ticketing portal opens.

For expected ticket prices in TZS, KES and UGX see our complete ticket prices guide. For the full fixtures and Tanzania match schedule see our fixtures page. For everything about attending AFCON 2027 in Tanzania see our practical info guide.

Process based on verified CAF official ticketing announcements for AFCON 2025 Morocco sourced from cafonline.com, Goal.com and CAF official press releases. AFCON 2027 ticketing process not yet confirmed by CAF — this page will be updated immediately when official details are announced.

AFCON 2027 Arusha — Complete Fan Guide to the Safari Capital Host City

Arusha is AFCON 2027’s most extraordinary host city. Safari capital, gateway to the Serengeti, 80km from Kilimanjaro — and now home to a brand new $112 million stadium. No previous AFCON has offered this: elite football in the afternoon, the Great Migration the following morning.

The Stadium

Built on a 14.57-hectare site in the Olomoti area, the Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium is being developed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group at a cost of $112 million. Its design is inspired by Tanzanite gemstones and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Getting to Arusha

Getting to the Stadium

A 21.2km network of new tarmac roads connecting the stadium to Arusha city is under construction, valued at TZS 82.9 billion, with a May 2027 deadline. A 17km bypass linking Kilimanjaro International Airport directly to the stadium is also underway.

From town centre — Bolt or hotel taxi. Allow 15 to 25 minutes. Book your return ride before the final whistle.

Where to Stay

Best area: Haile Selassie Road. Highest concentration of restaurants, bars and transport links. Easy Bolt access to the stadium.

Climate in June and July

Pack a fleece. Evening matches at altitude are cold.

Safari — The Arusha Advantage

AFCON 2027 runs 19 June to 17 July. The Great Migration — 1.5 million wildebeest moving north — peaks in June and July. This overlap is not a coincidence you should ignore.

Book safari operators now. The best will be fully booked months before the tournament.

Match Day Tips

• Pack layers — 20:00 EAT kick-offs are cold. Bring a jacket you can wear over your kit.
• Book Bolt early — less dense than DSM. Book your return 10 minutes before full time.
• No signal on safari — download offline maps before leaving Arusha. No mobile coverage in Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
• Arrive 90 minutes early — new roads ease congestion but 30,000 fans still create delays.

Food and Drink

Kilimanjaro

You will not climb it. But on a clear June or July morning — which is most mornings — Kilimanjaro appears above the clouds as a snow-capped cone suspended above the horizon. Stand outside your hotel at sunrise. It costs nothing and you will remember it.

For tickets visit our tickets guide. For stadium details see our stadiums guide. For the full fixture list see our fixtures page. For visas and practical info see our practical guide.

Sources: Wikipedia, Dar Al-Handasah, African Vibes, Daily News Tanzania, Pulse Sports Kenya. Construction figures as of June 2026.

Tanzania vs Nigeria AFCON 2027 — The Qualifying Clash Every East African Fan is Waiting For

Tanzania vs Nigeria. Taifa Stars against the Super Eagles. Africa’s most successful AFCON nation against the tournament co-hosts, at a sold-out Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. This is the most anticipated fixture in Tanzanian football history — and qualifying has not even started.

What Is at Stake

Tanzania cannot be eliminated from AFCON 2027. As co-hosts they are already guaranteed their place regardless of qualifying results. Every match is preparation — but a win over Nigeria at home would be a statement heard across the continent.

For Nigeria the stakes are different. If Tanzania tops Group L, only the second-placed team qualifies. If Tanzania finishes second, third or fourth, only the group winner goes through. Nigeria cannot afford to drop points against anyone.

Last Time They Met

Nigeria beat Tanzania 1–0 in the group stage of AFCON 2025 in Morocco on 23 December 2025. Tanzania will want that reversed. At home. In front of 60,000.

Why Nigeria Should Be Cautious

Although the group suggests a straightforward campaign given Nigeria’s superior quality and pedigree, the reality on the ground might not be so simple.

Three reasons:

• Home advantage is real. Tanzania held Algeria to a draw in the 2023 qualifying campaign at home. A full Mkapa with 60,000 fans is a different proposition from a neutral venue in Morocco.
• Tanzania’s squad is improving. Several players are now based in Europe and North America. The internationalisation of Tanzanian football is recent and real.
• Nigeria have slip-up history. The Super Eagles have failed to qualify for AFCON before despite their talent. Complacency against lower-ranked opponents has cost them previously.

Nigeria — Key Players

Tanzania — Key Players

Coach: Miguel Ángel Gamondi — contract extended February 2026. His tactical preparation for the Nigeria fixtures will be the most detailed of his Tanzania tenure.

What a Tanzania Win Would Mean

Nigeria have three AFCON titles. Beating them at home — in a competitive qualifier, with 60,000 witnessing it — would be the greatest result in Tanzanian football history. It would tell the continent that Tanzania are not polite hosts. They are genuine competitors.

Qualifying Schedule

Specific dates confirmed by CAF when the full schedule is published. Follow @TFF_Tz for Tanzania home fixture announcements.

Attending the Match

Tanzania qualifying home matches at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will be the hottest tickets in Dar es Salaam before AFCON 2027 opens. Tickets sold through TFF — follow @TFF_Tz for sale dates. For AFCON 2027 tournament tickets visit our ticket guide. For Mkapa Stadium transport and fan zones see our Dar es Salaam city guide. For the full Group L breakdown visit our Group L guide.

Head-to-head result from ESPN match data. Draw confirmed by CAF, 19 May 2026. Squad information current as of June 2026.

AFCON 2027 Business and Investment Guide — Opportunities in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda

AFCON 2027 is projected to generate $2 billion in combined economic impact across Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. The businesses that position now — before June 2027 — will capture the majority of that value. Here is where the opportunities are and what you need to do.

The Numbers

The $2 billion projection is consistent with AFCON 2025 in Morocco, which drew over 97 million cumulative viewers on beIN Sports alone. CAF Commercial Director Hassan El Kamah put the broadcast opportunity plainly: “Imagine three billion television viewers seeing your brand during AFCON matches.”

His warning on timing was equally direct: “The window to build something worth visiting is real. But it won’t stay open forever.”

The Accommodation Gap — Tanzania’s Most Urgent Problem

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila was explicit at a hotel launch in May 2026: “With AFCON 2027 approaching, the biggest challenge we face is the shortage of modern hotels capable of accommodating the large number of visitors expected. While we have a few good hotels, demand continues to outpace supply.”

Hotels, serviced apartments and short-term rentals in Msasani, Masaki and Oyster Bay are all in acute demand. Any accommodation completed before June 2027 benefits from full tournament occupancy, premium rates of 2x to 4x normal, and long-term repeat visitor legacy.

The same gap exists in Arusha and across Zanzibar.

Six Sectors with Real Opportunity

1. Hospitality

The largest single opportunity. New hotels, boutique guesthouses and serviced apartments in all three Tanzania host cities. Investment momentum is being fuelled by deepening international partnerships, particularly with China. The government has confirmed it will work closely with investors entering the hospitality market.

2. Transport

Three specific gaps nobody is adequately filling yet:

• Airport transfers — Julius Nyerere International will process unprecedented international arrivals. Licensed, fixed-price transfer services are significantly underserved.
• Stadium shuttles — Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is 15km from the main hotel districts. Organised fan transport on every match day is an obvious and unfilled need.
• Inter-city connections — DSM to Arusha, DSM to Zanzibar, Arusha to Nairobi. Fans attending matches in multiple cities need professional, reliable connections.

3. Safari and Tour Packages

Tanzania’s defining competitive advantage over every previous AFCON host. Arusha — a co-host city — is the gateway to the Serengeti. TANAPA is already enhancing visitor services and managing capacity in parks near host cities specifically to accommodate the expected increase in international sports tourism.

AFCON 2027 runs 19 June to 17 July — peak Great Migration season. Safari operators who build match-schedule packages now will be fully booked before the tournament opens.

4. Food and Beverage

Four distinct revenue streams:

• Official stadium concessions — licensed through CAF and the local organising committee
• Fan zone restaurants and bars in Msasani screened to AFCON-specific environments
• Street food and informal traders in match day zones across all four venues
• Team delegation catering — 24 squads of 50 to 80 people each requiring daily catering

5. Media and Content

Entertainment, media and merchandising are all sectors expected to benefit. Specific opportunities: licensed official merchandise (CAF application required), fan zone event management, sponsor activation and local content creation for international broadcasters covering the tournament.

6. Technology and Financial Services

Three underserved gaps: international payment bridging for visitors who cannot access M-Pesa, multilingual translation services for fans from 24 nations, and multi-service booking platforms combining accommodation, transport and safari in single itineraries.

The Regional Dimension

East Africa’s strength lies in the complementarity of its tourism products rather than competition among member states. The most valuable products are cross-border — Tanzania football and safari combined with Kenya wildlife and Uganda gorilla trekking in single itineraries. No single-country business can build these alone. The partnership opportunity is wide open.

Morocco’s Blueprint

Over the past decade Morocco deliberately used football tournaments to elevate its global profile. AFCON offers Tanzania the same stage — a global platform to reposition as a destination combining elite sport with wildlife, beaches, culture and history. The businesses that participate in this repositioning as partners rather than spectators will benefit from the brand elevation that follows.

Five Actions to Take Now

1. Complete projects in 2026 — businesses operational before the tournament capture pre-event bookings. Those starting in 2027 miss it entirely.
2. Register with the Local Organising Committee — the only route to official tournament concessions and accreditation.
3. Build digital presence now — international fans are already searching. Businesses with no online presence are invisible to them.
4. Create AFCON-specific products — generic tours and hotel rooms compete on price. Match day packages with stadium shuttles and post-match safari command premium rates.
5. Partner across the EAC — multi-country packages are the highest-value proposition in African tourism right now and require cross-border partnerships to build.

Key Contacts

For the full tourism impact analysis visit our AFCON 2027 tourism guide. For tournament overview visit our host countries and dates guide.

Sources: CAF Commercial Director Hassan El Kamah, Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo May 2026. DSM Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila, May 2026. TANAPA Conservation Commissioner Mussa Nasoro Kuji, June 2026.

AFCON 2027 and East Africa Tourism — What the Tournament Means for Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda

AFCON 2027 is not just a football tournament for East Africa. It is the biggest tourism marketing opportunity Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda have ever received — a month-long global broadcast event that will put three of Africa’s most extraordinary destinations in front of three billion television viewers simultaneously. The economic stakes go far beyond match attendance. This is the full picture of what AFCON 2027 means for East African tourism.

The Scale of the Opportunity — $2 Billion Economic Impact

The 2027 AFCON edition is projected to generate more than USD 2 billion in combined economic impact across the three host nations — Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. For context, this figure is consistent with the economic impact recorded at AFCON 2025 in Morocco, which drew over 97 million cumulative viewers on beIN Sports alone for the final.

Major sporting events have become increasingly important tools for destination promotion. Unlike traditional tourism campaigns, international tournaments place host nations in front of vast global audiences through television broadcasts, digital platforms, media coverage and social engagement. Travellers attending sporting events often combine match attendance with sightseeing, wildlife experiences, shopping, cultural exploration and leisure activities. This broader visitor behaviour creates substantial economic benefits across multiple tourism sectors.

Hassan El Kamah, CAF Commercial Director, put it directly when addressing delegates at the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo in Uganda: “Imagine three billion television viewers around the world seeing your brand during AFCON matches. This is the power of AFCON — an incredible platform for investment and tourism growth.”

Tanzania — Converting Football Fans into Safari Tourists

Tanzania’s strategy for AFCON 2027 extends well beyond filling stadiums. The government and its tourism authorities are pursuing an ambitious plan to use the tournament as a pipeline into Tanzania’s wider tourism economy — particularly its world-class wildlife and safari circuit.

For Tanzania, whose northern tourism circuit begins just outside the host city of Arusha, the tournament presents an unusual economic opportunity — leveraging a major sporting event to drive growth in wildlife tourism, one of the country’s most important foreign exchange earners.

The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) is actively preparing for the influx. TANAPA is adjusting visitor services in parks near host cities to respond to increased demand during the tournament. “Our teams are enhancing visitor services, establishing official watch zones and managing visitor capacity,” said TANAPA Conservation Commissioner CPA(T) Mussa Nasoro Kuji. “Our experts are finalising activities that will appeal to visitors attending AFCON while complementing wildlife experiences.”

Tanzania’s focus is not only on match attendance but on extending visitor stays and increasing travel to national parks and other attractions. The objective is to convert sporting visitors into long-term tourists supporting the wider tourism economy beyond the tournament period.

Tanzania’s Tourism Numbers — The Platform AFCON is Building On

Tourism contributes about 17.2 percent of Tanzania’s gross domestic product and supports more than 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs. Tanzania’s tourism earnings have risen from approximately $1.3 billion in 2021 to more than $4.4 billion, driven by increased visitor arrivals and sustained government investment in tourism promotion, conservation and infrastructure development.

Tanzania’s Director of Tourism Dr Theresa Mugobi confirmed the government’s approach: “These achievements are the result of deliberate government investments in tourism promotion, conservation of natural resources, infrastructure development, service improvement and diversification of tourism. Tanzania continues to invest in tourism infrastructure, accommodation facilities, transport services, hospitality skills and international marketing to maximise the benefits expected from AFCON 2027.”

Tanzania’s Key Tourism Attractions for AFCON Visitors

Every AFCON 2027 fan visiting Tanzania is arriving in one of the world’s greatest tourism destinations. The country’s key attractions are all either within the host cities or within easy reach of them:

The extraordinary coincidence of timing: AFCON 2027 runs from 19 June to 17 July. This period falls precisely during the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti — one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth. AFCON 2027 fans in Arusha can attend a group stage match and see the Great Migration on the same trip. No previous AFCON has offered anything remotely comparable.

Kenya — Gateway and Host

Kenya enters AFCON 2027 as both a co-host and one of Africa’s most established tourism destinations. Nairobi’s Talanta Stadium hosts group stage and knockout matches, while Kenya’s world-famous safari circuit — the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Diani Beach — sits within reach of the capital.

East Africa’s strength lies in the diversity and complementarity of its tourism products rather than competition among member states. Tanzania and Kenya’s wildlife attractions, the beaches of Zanzibar and Diani, and cultural heritage across the region are assets that complement rather than compete with each other.

For AFCON fans, the PAMOJA co-hosting arrangement means a single trip can realistically combine Nairobi matches with Tanzanian safari and Zanzibar beaches — creating multi-destination itineraries that generate tourism spending across the entire region rather than in a single city.

Uganda — The Pearl of Africa’s Moment

For Uganda, the tournament represents an opportunity to introduce millions of potential travelers to the country’s wildlife, cultural attractions, adventure experiences and hospitality offerings while strengthening its position within Africa’s growing tourism market.

El Kamah issued a direct challenge to Uganda’s private sector, urging airlines, hotels, tour operators and experience providers to begin positioning now. “The window to build something worth visiting is real. But it won’t stay open forever.” With global qualification announcements expected in September 2026 and fan and media attention set to sharpen considerably from that point, stakeholders across hospitality, transport, entertainment and infrastructure have a closing window to prepare competitive, visitor-ready products.

Uganda’s tourism drawcard — mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of the rarest wildlife experiences on earth — is within reach of Kampala for fans attending matches at Mandela National Stadium.

The 3 Billion Viewer Platform — What It Means for East Africa’s Brand

The economic impact of AFCON 2027 extends far beyond the visitors who physically attend matches. AFCON 2025 in Morocco drew over 97 million cumulative viewers on beIN Sports alone. AFCON 2027 — with its unprecedented three-nation East African setting — is expected to generate even larger global broadcast reach.

Every match broadcast from Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, from Arusha with Mount Meru in the background, from Stone Town Zanzibar or from Nairobi’s brand-new Talanta Stadium — is a tourism advertisement for East Africa reaching hundreds of millions of households that have never considered visiting the region. The Serengeti backdrop visible from Arusha’s Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium during a televised match is worth more in destination promotion than most annual tourism marketing budgets.

EAC Tourism — The Regional Cooperation Strategy

The East African Community (EAC) is actively coordinating a regional tourism strategy around AFCON 2027 — ensuring that the economic benefits spread across member states rather than concentrating in individual host cities.

Tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, accommodation providers and technology firms have a key role in creating integrated tourism packages that encourage visitors to travel across the region. According to regional tourism officials, East Africa’s strength lies in the diversity and complementarity of its tourism products.

Integrated PAMOJA tourism packages — combining Tanzania safari, Zanzibar beach, Kenya wildlife and Uganda gorilla trekking into single itineraries built around AFCON match schedules — represent the highest-value tourism product East Africa has ever been able to offer the global market.

What This Means for Fans Attending AFCON 2027

The tourism strategy around AFCON 2027 has a direct practical benefit for fans attending the tournament. Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda are actively investing in tourism infrastructure, visitor services and experience quality specifically because of AFCON 2027. The stadiums being built, the roads being upgraded, the hotel capacity being expanded, the national park visitor services being enhanced — all of this benefits fans attending matches as much as it benefits the wider tourism economy.

Fans attending AFCON 2027 in Tanzania are arriving at the best-prepared version of the country’s tourism offering in its history. The combination of world-class football and East Africa’s extraordinary natural and cultural assets makes AFCON 2027 the most compelling sports tourism proposition in Africa right now.

Planning Your AFCON 2027 East Africa Trip

For fans wanting to combine AFCON 2027 with East Africa’s tourism highlights, here is the essential planning guide:

• Book safari operators now — AFCON period (June/July) is peak Serengeti season. Safari operators in Arusha will be fully booked months ahead. The window to secure Great Migration safari availability alongside AFCON match tickets is closing.
• Multi-city itinerary — DSM for Tanzania matches, Arusha for stadium and safari, Zanzibar for beaches. Each leg is distinct and each adds a completely different experience.
• Extended stay — TANAPA’s strategy is explicitly to convert football fans into longer-stay tourists. Extending your trip by 3 to 5 days for a safari or Zanzibar beach stay adds enormous value at marginal extra cost.
• Book accommodation early — hotels, lodges and safari camps near all three host cities will reach full capacity months before the tournament.

For the complete planning guide covering flights, visas, accommodation and match tickets visit our practical info page. For safari and activity options in each host city visit our Tanzania city guides. For everything about attending matches visit our tickets guide.

Economic figures sourced from CAF Commercial Director Hassan El Kamah addressing the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo, May 2026. Tanzania tourism statistics from Tanzania Director of Tourism Dr Theresa Mugobi, June 2026. TANAPA strategy statements from Conservation Commissioner CPA(T) Mussa Nasoro Kuji, June 2026.

AFCON 2027 Zanzibar — Matches, Stadiums, Beaches and the Complete Fan Guide

AFCON 2027 makes history in Zanzibar. For the first time ever, Africa Cup of Nations matches will be played on an island — and not just any island. Zanzibar is a UNESCO World Heritage archipelago of white sand beaches, ancient Stone Town, Indian Ocean spice routes and one of the most culturally rich destinations in Africa. For fans who attend AFCON 2027 matches here, the experience will be unlike anything in the history of the tournament. This is your complete guide to AFCON 2027 in Zanzibar.

Is Zanzibar Confirmed as an AFCON 2027 Host?

Yes — confirmed. Tanzania has presented the Fumba Stadium (36,500) and Amaan Stadium (15,000) in Zanzibar as two of its four AFCON 2027 match venues. CAF inspectors have already visited and audited both the Amaan and Fumba stadiums in Zanzibar, assessing them for the 2027 tournament. Zanzibar is fully confirmed as an AFCON 2027 host destination.

AFCON 2027 Stadiums in Zanzibar

Fumba City Stadium — 36,500 capacity

The Fumba City Stadium is the largest and most significant AFCON 2027 infrastructure project on Zanzibar Island — a brand new arena being built from scratch specifically for the tournament. It is the first major sports facility ever constructed on Zanzibar and represents a transformational legacy project for the archipelago.

Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has issued a directive to contractors and state officials to fast-track the Fumba City stadium project. The stadium forms part of a wider urban development plan for Fumba which will include roads, a hospital, restaurants, shopping centres and other public facilities aimed at transforming the area into a modern urban hub.

The Fumba Stadium was designed by AFL Architects and construction works are being carried out by Turkish contractor ORKUN Group.

The facility will have modern training pitches and world-class accommodation facilities for teams, officials and fans. “The completion level reflects how seriously the government is preparing to welcome visitors during AFCON 2027,” said Riziki Pembe Juma, Zanzibar’s Minister for Information.

New Amaan Sports Complex — 15,000 capacity

Amaan Stadium is one of the most historically significant football venues in Africa. Built with Chinese government aid and opened in 1970, Amaan Stadium was China’s first stadium project in Africa — marking the beginning of its stadium diplomacy across the continent. Over 50 years later it has been renovated and expanded into the New Amaan Sports Complex for AFCON 2027.

The renovation completed in December 2023 transformed the old stadium — new stands, new seats, new floodlights, new roof, new athletics track and two auxiliary football pitches. In Zanzibar, matches will take place at the New Amaan Sports Complex. Zanzibar’s training grounds include the New Amaan Sports Complex, Suluhu Sports Academy and Mao Tse Tung which will host two training fields.

The AFCON City — Zanzibar’s Vision

Tanzania will build a new AFCON City in Zanzibar at the cost of TZS 388.8 billion. The facility will be built in Fumba, Ugunja island, 40 kilometres from the Tanzanian mainland. The initiative is set to ensure that the island maximises on the tourists coming for the games.

Tourism boost: Thousands of football fans are expected to visit Zanzibar, combining world-class football with beaches and cultural heritage. Infrastructure legacy: The renovated Amaan Stadium and the new Fumba Stadium will remain long after the tournament, strengthening local sports.

Why AFCON 2027 in Zanzibar is Unmissable

There has never been an AFCON venue quite like Zanzibar. Every other tournament in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations has been played in continental mainland cities. Zanzibar changes that entirely. Here is what makes attending matches here different from anywhere else in the tournament:

UNESCO World Heritage Stone Town — the ancient heart of Zanzibar City. Narrow winding alleys, 400-year-old Omani mansions, intricately carved wooden doors and the famous Forodhani Night Market right on the waterfront. Walking through Stone Town on match day — in kit, surrounded by fans from across Africa — is genuinely once-in-a-lifetime.

Indian Ocean beaches — Zanzibar has some of the finest beaches in the world. Nungwi on the north coast, Kendwa just south of it, and the wild east coast at Paje and Jambiani. Attending an AFCON 2027 match in the afternoon and watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean in the evening is not something any previous AFCON has offered fans.

Spice Island history — Zanzibar was the spice capital of the world for centuries. Cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla — all grew here and changed global cuisine. The spice farm tours, the old slave trade sites, the House of Wonders — Zanzibar has more history per square kilometre than almost anywhere in Africa.

Forodhani Night Market — the ancient Stone Town waterfront food market. Grilled octopus, Zanzibar pizza, fresh sugarcane juice, coconut water, mishkaki skewers — all for a few thousand shillings each. The best street food experience in the tournament.

Getting to Zanzibar for AFCON 2027

By Ferry from Dar es Salaam

The most popular way to reach Zanzibar. Kilimanjaro Fast ferries operated by Azam Marine and Zan Fast Ferries depart multiple times daily from the Dar es Salaam ferry terminal.

Important: Ferry crossings during AFCON 2027 match weeks in Zanzibar will sell out. Book your return crossing at the same time as your outbound journey. Do not leave this until the last minute.

By Air from Dar es Salaam

International Flights Direct to Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s airport (ZNZ) receives direct international flights from several African cities and Middle Eastern hubs. Check current routes from your origin — flying direct to Zanzibar and starting your AFCON experience on the island is a fantastic option if your routing allows it.

Where to Stay in Zanzibar for AFCON 2027

Stone Town — For Culture and Atmosphere

Stone Town guesthouses and boutique hotels are the best base for fans attending matches at the New Amaan Sports Complex — the stadium is walking distance from the old town. The atmosphere of Stone Town on match days will be extraordinary — narrow alleys, rooftop bars, the waterfront all alive with AFCON 2027 fans from across Africa.

Nungwi — For Beach and Nightlife

The north coast village of Nungwi is Zanzibar’s most popular tourist destination — long white beach, warm calm water, lively beach bars and the iconic Rock Bar. Further from the stadiums but ideal for fans combining AFCON with a beach holiday.

Kendwa — For Calm and Sunsets

Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa is calmer and more relaxed. Famous for its full moon parties and some of the best sunsets on the island. If your AFCON 2027 schedule aligns with a full moon — Kendwa is unmissable.

East Coast — Paje and Jambiani

The wild east coast is Zanzibar’s best-kept secret — long remote beaches, East African village life, world-class kitesurfing. Further from the match venues but perfect for fans who want to escape the tournament crowds between games.

Match Day Guide — Getting to the Stadiums

New Amaan Sports Complex (Stone Town)

If staying in Stone Town — walk. The stadium is within the old town area. Allow 15 to 20 minutes on foot through the alleys. This is one of the great match day walks in world football — through 400-year-old streets, past carved wooden doors and spice markets, to an AFCON 2027 group stage match.

If staying in Nungwi or north coast — take a dala-dala (local minibus) or shared taxi to Stone Town. Journey takes 45 to 60 minutes. Bolt is increasingly available on Zanzibar for app-based rides.

Fumba City Stadium

Fumba is approximately 25km southwest of Stone Town. It is not walkable from anywhere on the island. Take a Bolt, private taxi or official shuttle. Journey from Stone Town takes 30 to 45 minutes. Book transport in advance for match days — do not rely on finding a taxi outside the stadium after the match.

Things to Do in Zanzibar Beyond the Football

Forodhani Night Market — every evening at sunset, the Stone Town waterfront comes alive. Grilled octopus, Zanzibar pizza, fresh juice for a few thousand shillings each. Non-negotiable.

Spice Farm Tour — half-day tour of working spice farms. See how cloves, cardamom and vanilla grow. One of the best half-days available in East Africa. $15 to $25 USD including transport.

Prison Island (Changuu Island) — a short boat ride from Stone Town. Giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. Snorkelling in the surrounding coral reef. $20 to $30 USD for the boat trip.

Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll — the best snorkelling in Tanzania and among the finest in the Indian Ocean. Dolphins, sea turtles, reef fish and seasonal whale sharks. $40 to $60 USD for a half-day trip from Nungwi or Matemwe.

Stone Town walking tour — the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, the slave trade memorial, the Freddie Mercury Museum (the Queen frontman was born in Stone Town). Budget a full day. $15 to $30 USD for a guided tour.

Sunset dhow cruise — traditional wooden sailing vessel, Indian Ocean, cold Kilimanjaro beer, the Stone Town skyline turning golden. $25 to $40 USD. The most Zanzibar experience possible.

Practical Tips for Zanzibar

Dress code in Stone Town — Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. Cover shoulders and knees when walking through Stone Town and the old town areas. Swimwear is fine on the beach. Respectful dress is appreciated.

Water — never drink tap water on Zanzibar. Drink sealed bottled water only. ATMs in Stone Town can run out during peak periods — withdraw cash in Dar es Salaam before crossing if possible.

Connectivity — good 4G in Stone Town and Nungwi. East coast coverage can be patchy. Download offline maps before heading to remote beaches. Yas , Vodacom and Airtel perform best on the island.

Best time to cross — if attending an evening match, take the morning ferry from DSM. Give yourself a full day on the island before the match. Do not take the last ferry of the day on match day — it will be overcrowded with departing fans.

Yellow fever — if your original entry into Tanzania was from a yellow fever endemic country (Nigeria, Ghana, DRC etc), carry your yellow fever certificate when travelling to Zanzibar. Authorities sometimes check it at the island port. See our health guide for full details.

Why Zanzibar Changes AFCON 2027

Every AFCON has great football. Only AFCON 2027 has Zanzibar. The Stone Town alleyways, the Forodhani waterfront, the Indian Ocean backdrop, the spice markets, the beaches — these are things no previous Africa Cup of Nations has offered fans. Attending a group stage match on Zanzibar and combining it with even two days on the island is one of the great football travel experiences available anywhere in the world right now.

For tickets to Zanzibar matches visit our complete ticket guide. For flights to Tanzania visit our flights guide. For the full AFCON 2027 fixture list visit our fixtures page. For everything about all three host cities visit our complete Tanzania city guides.

Stadium information sourced from Daily News Tanzania, The Citizen Tanzania, StadiumDB, CAF Online and Tuko.co.ke. Construction status as of June 2026. This page will be updated as further information is confirmed.

Health Guide for AFCON 2027 Tanzania — Vaccinations, Malaria and Staying Safe

Tanzania is a safe destination for AFCON 2027 fans but it requires specific health preparation that you should start at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel. The two most important things to sort are malaria prophylaxis and your yellow fever certificate — both require advance planning and neither can be left until the week before you fly. This guide covers everything you need, based on current CDC, WHO and UK NHS recommendations for Tanzania in 2026.

See Your Travel Doctor — Do This First

Before anything else in this guide — book an appointment with a travel health clinic or your GP at least 4 to 6 weeks before your travel date. Some vaccinations require multiple doses spaced weeks apart. Some antimalarial medications need to be started before you arrive in Tanzania. Starting this process too late is one of the most common mistakes first-time Africa travellers make.

Tell your doctor:

• Your exact travel dates
• Which cities you are visiting — Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar
• Whether you are going on safari
• Any existing medical conditions or medications
• Your vaccination history

Yellow Fever — What You Actually Need to Know

Yellow fever is the most commonly misunderstood health requirement for Tanzania. Here is the accurate picture:

Tanzania is a yellow fever-free country. The vast majority of travellers do not need the yellow fever vaccine to visit Tanzania. However, Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination from travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, and from travellers who have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

The critical rule: Even if flying from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar, authorities sometimes ask for yellow fever proof if your original entry into Tanzania was from an endemic country. Always carry your Yellow Card when travelling to Zanzibar.

Important for Nigerian fans specifically: If you are flying from Lagos or Abuja to Dar es Salaam, your yellow fever certificate is mandatory. Tanzania immigration will check it on arrival. Do not board your flight without it.

The yellow fever vaccine provides lifetime protection with a single dose. You are considered fully vaccinated 10 days after receiving the injection. Get it well in advance and make sure it is noted on your official International Certificate of Vaccination — the yellow card.

Malaria — The Most Important Health Issue for AFCON 2027 Fans

Malaria is the most significant health risk for visitors to Tanzania and must not be taken lightly.

There is a high risk of malaria in all areas of Tanzania below 1,800 metres including Zanzibar. Antimalarial medication — atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone), doxycycline or mefloquine — is strongly recommended. There is no risk of malaria above 1,800 metres.

For AFCON 2027 fans this means:

• Dar es Salaam — coastal, sea level — HIGH malaria risk
• Zanzibar — island, sea level — HIGH malaria risk
• Arusha — 1,400m altitude — LOWER but still present risk

Recommended Vaccinations

Recommended vaccinations for Tanzania include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio (make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date), Rabies (recommended for safari trips or extended stays), Meningitis and Cholera.

Food and Water Safety

Water: Do not drink tap water anywhere in Tanzania — Dar es Salaam, Arusha or Zanzibar. This is absolute. Drink sealed bottled water only. At fan zones and stadiums buy sealed bottles — do not accept open containers or ice from unknown sources. Ice made from tap water is a common cause of illness in tourists — be cautious with ice in drinks at local venues.

Food: Tanzania’s street food is generally safe when freshly cooked at high temperatures — nyama choma, grilled mishkaki, fresh chapati and pilau from busy local restaurants are all lower risk because they are cooked to order. Higher risk foods are raw salads, unpeeled fruit from unknown vendors, and seafood that has been sitting out. The standard rules for East Africa apply:

• Eat food that is freshly cooked and hot
• Peel fruit yourself or avoid unpeeled fruit
• Avoid buffets where food has been sitting for unknown periods
• Street food from busy, high-turnover stalls is generally safer than quiet ones
• If in doubt, eat at hotel restaurants for the first day or two while your stomach adjusts

Traveller’s diarrhoea: One of the most common health issues for visitors to East Africa.

Heat and Sun Safety

Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar are coastal and humid — temperatures reach 28 to 32°C during June and July with high humidity. Arusha is cooler at 22 to 26°C during the day but with strong equatorial sun at altitude.

For AFCON 2027 fans attending the 14:00 EAT kick-off matches specifically:

• Apply SPF 50 sunscreen before leaving your hotel and reapply every 2 hours
• Bring a wide-brim hat or cap — essential for open stadium sections
• Carry and drink at least 2 litres of water during an afternoon match
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing — dark colours absorb heat
• Be aware of heat exhaustion symptoms: heavy sweating, weakness, cold or pale skin, weak pulse, nausea. Move to shade and rehydrate immediately.

Medical Facilities in the Host Cities

Dar es Salaam

DSM has the best private medical facilities of the three host cities. For any serious illness or injury, go to a private hospital or clinic rather than a public facility — standards vary significantly.

• Aga Khan Hospital — Dar es Salaam’s best-equipped private hospital. International standard care, 24-hour emergency, lab services.
• Regency Medical Centre — well-equipped private hospital, good emergency care
• IST Clinic (International SOS) — specifically serves international travellers and expatriates

Arusha

• Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre — reliable private hospital, commonly used by tourists and safari operators
• Mount Meru Hospital — government hospital, emergency services

Zanzibar

• Mnazi Mmoja Hospital — main public hospital in Stone Town. For serious cases, medical evacuation to Dar es Salaam is sometimes necessary.
• Most upscale resorts in Nungwi have resident nurses or on-call doctors for guests

Travel Insurance — Non-Negotiable

Do not travel to Tanzania for AFCON 2027 without travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. A serious illness or accident requiring medical evacuation from Tanzania to a specialist facility can cost $50,000 to $150,000 USD without insurance. This is not a risk worth taking.

Your insurance policy must include:

• Medical treatment coverage — minimum $100,000 USD
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Repatriation
• Trip cancellation (for non-refundable bookings)

Your Health Checklist — Before You Fly

Emergency Numbers in Tanzania

Save your country’s embassy number in Tanzania before you travel — essential if your passport is lost or stolen.

For the complete AFCON 2027 Tanzania planning guide covering visas, safety, money and transport visit our practical info page. For a full safety guide covering crime risk and areas to avoid see our safety guide. For everything about getting to Tanzania see our flights guide.

Health information based on NaTHNaC (UK Travel Health Pro), CDC Yellow Book 2026, WHO recommendations and Tanzania Embassy guidance as of June 2026. Health requirements can change — always verify current requirements with your travel health clinic before departure.