CHAN 2024 Travel Guide: Your Complete East Africa Football Adventure

The African Nations Championship (CHAN) is returning in 2025 with an unprecedented twist – it will be co-hosted across three East African nations: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. From the opening match on August 2 in Dar es Salaam to the grand final on August 30 in Nairobi, this is more than just a football tournament. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore East Africa through the lens of sport, culture, and travel.

Whether you’re flying in from abroad, hopping borders as a regional fan, or finally seizing the chance to explore your neighboring countries, CHAN 2024 offers an unmatched opportunity to combine football fever with unforgettable travel experiences.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: visa requirements, travel logistics, accommodation options, stadium experiences, and cultural adventures between matches.

CHAN 2024 at a Glance

The 2025 African Nations Championship marks a groundbreaking moment in African football history as the first CHAN tournament hosted by three countries under the unifying theme of “Pamoja” (Swahili for “together”).

Tournament Details:

• Duration: August 2-30, 2025
• Teams: 18 national teams (domestic players only)
• Format: Three groups of six, with top teams advancing to knockouts

Host Countries & Venues:

Kenya – Nairobi

• Hosts: Group A matches, semi-finals, and grand final
• Venues: Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) & Nyayo Stadium

Tanzania – Dar es Salaam & Zanzibar

• Hosts: Opening match and Group B games
• Venues: Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium (Dar es Salaam) & Amaan Stadium (Zanzibar)

Uganda – Kampala

• Hosts: Group C matches and third-place playoff
• Venue: Mandela National Stadium (Namboole)

Entry Requirements & Visas

EAC Nationals vs. International Visitors

EAC Citizens (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania) can travel between host countries using a valid national ID or passport without additional visas.

International Visitors need to secure visas or electronic travel authorizations before arrival.

The Pamoja Visa (Under Development)

The proposed Pamoja Visa is a special multiple-entry pass designed specifically for CHAN 2024, enabling seamless travel between all three host countries. Announced in early June 2025, it should be available in the weeks leading up to the tournament.

Benefits:

• Single visa for all three countries
• Multiple entries throughout the tournament
• Simplified travel logistics
• Enhanced security coordination

Country-Specific Entry Requirements

Kenya – eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)

• Cost: $30 USD (single entry)
• Valid for re-entry after brief travel to Uganda/Tanzania
• Yellow fever certificate required for travelers from endemic countries
• Some African nationals are exempt from fees (as of 2024-2025)

Tanzania – e-Visa or Visa on Arrival

• Cost: $50 USD single entry (US citizens: $100 USD for multiple entry)
• Yellow fever certificate required
• No longer available on arrival as of January 2025 – must apply online in advance

Uganda – e-Visa Required

• Cost: $50 USD (single entry tourist visa)
• East African Tourist Visa available ($100) – valid for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda only (not Tanzania)
• Multiple-entry options available: $100 (6-12 months), $200 (24 months)

Action Items:

• Monitor official updates on Pamoja Visa launch
• Apply for individual country visas early if Pamoja Visa unavailable
• Ensure passport validity (minimum 6 months)
• Obtain yellow fever certificate
• Keep digital copies of all documents

Traveling Between Host Countries

Getting between Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda is easier than ever with multiple transport options. For detailed route planning, flight bookings, and border crossing tips, see our comprehensive Travel Between Host Countries Guide covering flights (Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Jambojet), overland routes, and scenic Lake Victoria ferry connections.

Ready to book your flights? Compare airlines and find the best deals to East Africa using our flight booking tool.

Where to Stay During CHAN 2024

Nairobi, Kenya

Luxury Options:

• Sarova Stanley Hotel: Historic 5-star in city center with rooftop pool and Thorn Tree Café
• JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi: Modern elegance in Westlands with city views

Mid-Range:

• Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands: Comfortable with easy stadium access
• PrideInn Azure Nairobi: Good value in vibrant neighborhood

Budget-Friendly:

• Airbnbs in Kilimani, Westlands, or Lavington ($25-40/night)
• Local guesthouses in South B or Lubowa

Kampala, Uganda

High-End:

• Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort: Lakeside luxury on Lake Victoria
• Imperial Royale Hotel: Central location near Mandela Stadium

Boutique:

• Latitude 0 Degrees: Sustainable design hotel in Makindye ($100-180/night)

Budget:

• Speke Apartments Wampewo: Self-catering with pool and gym
• Local guesthouses like Matoke Inn
• Airbnbs in Lugogo or Munyonyo

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Premier:

• Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel: 5-star near Benjamin Mkapa Stadium with beach access

Fan Packages: Many hotels offer CHAN-themed packages including match tickets, shuttles, and local tours.

Booking Tips

• Book early: CHAN accommodations fill up quickly
• Choose stadium proximity: Westlands/Kilimani (Nairobi) offer easy access
• Look for fan packages: Bundled deals often include transport and tours
• Check cancellation policies: Flexible dates help with schedule changes
• Find the best deals: Use our hotel booking tool to compare prices and availability across all three host cities

Match Day Experience

Official Ticketing

• Main Portal: cafonline.com/caf-african-nations-championship/tickets/
• Country-Specific Portals:
  • Kenya: chan.mookh.com
  • Tanzania: chantz.kimtandao.co.tz
  • Uganda: chan.tkt.ug
• Format: Digital tickets only (email/SMS delivery)
• Payment: M-Pesa, MTN MoMo, Airtel Money, bank cards
• Pricing:
  • Kenya: KSh 200 (Regular), KSh 500 (VIP), KSh 1,000 (VVIP)
  • Tanzania: KSh 100 (Regular), KSh 250 (VIP A), KSh 500 (VIP B)
  • Uganda: UGX 10,000 (Ordinary), UGX 30,000 (Silver), UGX 50,000 (Premium)
• Important: Each ticket covers one match only (or all matches on double-header days)
• No re-entry once you exit the stadium

Stadium Guidelines

• Arrive 1.5-2 hours early for security screening
• Bring ID/passport for verification
• Avoid large bags and prohibited items
• No re-entry once ticket is scanned

Getting to Stadiums

Transportation Options:

• Kenya: Uber, Bolt, hotel shuttles
• Uganda: Uber, SafeBoda, pre-arranged transport
• Tanzania: Hotel shuttles, vetted taxis (limited rideshare)

Fan Zones

Each host city will organize Fan Zones with:

• Live entertainment and local music
• Big screens for match viewing
• Local food and cultural activities
• Pre-match festivities

Explore East Africa Between Matches

Nairobi, Kenya

Must-Do Experiences:

• Nairobi National Park: Wildlife viewing with city skyline backdrop (half-day)
• Karen Blixen Museum & Giraffe Centre: Feed giraffes and explore colonial history
• Maasai Market: Local crafts and authentic Kenyan cuisine
• Westlands Nightlife: Alchemist Bar, J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen

Kampala, Uganda

Adventure & Culture:

• Jinja Day Trip: Whitewater rafting and bungee jumping on the Nile
• Kasubi Tombs: UNESCO World Heritage spiritual site
• Ndere Cultural Centre: Traditional dance and drumming performances
• Nightlife: National Theatre, The Lawns, Bubbles O’Leary’s

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Beach & Culture:

• Coco Beach & Msasani Peninsula: Ocean views and seafood
• Kariakoo Market: Local hustle and authentic street life
• Bongoyo Island: Day trip for swimming and snorkeling
• Bongo Flava Scene: Live music and street food culture

Planning Off-Match Travel

• Use fixture gaps for day trips or short stays
• Book local tour guides (many offer CHAN discounts)
• Check visa requirements for country-hopping
• Consider regional flights for quick tourism hops
• Discover more experiences: Browse activities and attractions across East Africa with our things to do finder

Essential Travel Tips

What to Pack

• Valid passport + yellow fever certificate
• Digital and printed match tickets
• Team jersey and comfortable clothing
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Power bank and Type G travel adapter
• Local SIM card or unlocked phone

Weather in August

August is East Africa’s dry season:

• Nairobi: Cool (10-22°C/50-72°F)
• Dar es Salaam: Warm and humid (20-30°C/68-86°F)
• Kampala: Mild to warm (17-28°C/63-82°F)

Pack layers and breathable fabrics for comfort.

Safety & Communication

• Use official or hotel-recommended transport
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Download offline maps and translation apps
• Join local fan WhatsApp/Facebook groups for updates
• Secure travel insurance covering sports events

Local SIM Cards

• Kenya: Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom
• Uganda: Airtel or MTN
• Tanzania: Vodacom

Additional Planning Resources

Stadium & Match Day Logistics

Each venue offers unique experiences and logistics. Our detailed CHAN 2024 Stadium Guide covers security procedures, parking, fan zones, and accessibility options for Kasarani, Nyayo, Benjamin Mkapa, and Mandela stadiums.

Budget Planning & Money Matters

Traveling across three countries requires smart budgeting. Check our CHAN 2024 Budget Planner for daily cost estimates, currency exchange tips, ATM locations, and payment methods in each host country.

Health & Safety Preparation

Stay safe and healthy during your East African adventure. Our CHAN 2024 Health & Safety Guide covers vaccination requirements, medical facilities near stadiums, emergency contacts, and travel insurance recommendations.

Cultural Etiquette & Language

Navigate local customs with confidence. Our East Africa Culture Guide includes essential Swahili phrases, cultural do’s and don’ts, tipping customs, and dining etiquette for each country.

Technology & Communication

Stay connected throughout your journey. Our CHAN 2024 Tech Guide covers SIM card options, WiFi availability, essential apps, and connecting with fan communities.

Transport Guide

Navigate CHAN 2024 with ease. Our Complete Transport Guide covers verified routes, border crossings, and travel tips for moving between Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda during the tournament.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got specific questions about CHAN 2024 travel? Our comprehensive CHAN 2024 FAQ Guide covers everything from transportation logistics and stadium policies to cultural etiquette and emergency contacts.

Get Ready for CHAN 2024

CHAN 2024 offers far more than football, it’s your gateway to experiencing the vibrant heart of East Africa. From roaring stadiums to wildlife safaris, bustling markets to serene lake shores, this tournament combines sport with cultural immersion and natural wonder.

With proper planning using this comprehensive guide and our specialized resources, you’ll navigate visa requirements, secure great accommodation, travel seamlessly between countries, and create memories that extend far beyond the final whistle.

Whether you’re a devoted supporter or adventurous traveler, CHAN 2024 promises an unforgettable journey through the soul of Africa. Pack your team colors, grab your passport, and prepare for the ultimate East African football adventure.

Ready to plan your trip? Start with visa applications, book accommodation early, explore our detailed planning guides above, and prepare for the experience of a lifetime across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.