Arusha Travel Guide: The Safari Capital of Tanzania

The gateway city

Arusha is a mid-sized, hilly city on the slopes of Mount Meru. Most people arrive with a safari or Kilimanjaro climb in mind, and the city is set up for that: tour operators, gear shops, coffee estates and lodges fill the surrounding countryside. It’s cooler and calmer than Dar es Salaam, and the views of Mount Meru, and, on a clear morning, of Kilimanjaro, are one of the bonuses.

The city isn’t a visitor attraction in its own right. But it’s a comfortable base, and a day or two here is easy to fill.

Where to stay

Usa River and Tengeru are lush, quiet areas east of the city, with lodges set in coffee farms and gardens. They’re closer to Kilimanjaro Airport and are a favourite for a first or last night. Arusha town and Njiro put you close to restaurants, shops and offices. Lake Duluti has a few peaceful lodges near a crater lake.

Choose based on whether you want a quiet start or a walkable base. If you’re arriving late from an international flight, look at Usa River.

Getting around

Taxis and Bolt cover most needs, and bajaj (tuk-tuks) are cheap for short trips. Dala-dala minibuses are for the adventurous. Hotels and operators arrange airport transfers and safari pickups.

What to do

Arusha National Park. A small, varied park about 45 minutes from town, with Mount Meru, the Momella lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater. You can see giraffes, buffalo, colobus monkeys and flamingos, and it’s one of the few Tanzanian parks where walking safaris and canoeing are available. It works as a half-day or full-day trip.

Mount Meru. A three- to four-day hike that ends at a summit of 4,566 m. It’s a good warm-up for Kilimanjaro.

Lake Duluti. A small crater lake in the forest. Walk the shoreline or paddle a canoe.

Cultural Heritage Centre. A large complex of crafts, art and gems just outside town. It’s touristy, and prices are high, but it’s an easy way to see a wide range of work. Bargain politely.

Central Market and Clock Tower. The clock tower is a landmark at the centre of the city, and the market next to it has fruit, vegetables, spices and crafts.

Natural History Museum. In a German colonial fort, with exhibits on the region’s fossils and history. There’s also a small museum devoted to the 1961 Arusha Declaration.

Coffee tours. Estates near Arusha offer tours where you can see the process from cherry to cup. A good afternoon activity.

Choosing a safari operator

Arusha has hundreds of tour operators, and quality varies enormously. Do your research before you arrive, and don’t book with anyone who approaches you on the street. Ask about the vehicle, the driver-guide’s qualifications and languages, whether park fees are included and what happens in case of a breakdown. Get everything in writing. Our safari cost guide explains what different prices usually include.

Eating

Arusha has a good mix of restaurants. Try nyama choma (grilled meat), pilau, local fish, fresh fruit juices and Tanzanian coffee. Indian and Italian options are common. Local bars serve the Safari and Kilimanjaro lagers. Many lodges have gardens and serve good breakfasts.

Onward travel

Arusha is the starting point for the northern circuit: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Domestic flights leave from Arusha Airport to the Serengeti and other airstrips. Kilimanjaro Airport handles international arrivals and flights to Zanzibar. For Kilimanjaro climbs, the drive to the trailheads takes roughly two hours.