Arusha City

Overview

Arusha City, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, serves as the vibrant hub of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Often called the “Safari Capital,” it’s the essential starting point for adventures to iconic destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Kilimanjaro. This bustling city offers more than just transit; it boasts a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Its pleasant climate, thanks to its elevated position, provides a comfortable atmosphere for visitors year-round. From here, countless incredible experiences await, solidifying its role as a key player in East African tourism.


The Unique Appeal of Arusha City

What makes Arusha City so appealing? Beyond its strategic location, the city itself offers a rich cultural experience. Explore local markets, vibrant with fresh produce, crafts, and the lively chatter of vendors. The central Kilombero Market is a feast for the senses, providing an authentic glimpse into daily Tanzanian life. Visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to delve into Tanzania’s history, or immerse yourself in local art at the Cultural Heritage Centre. Arusha City is also home to diverse communities, creating a welcoming and eclectic atmosphere. You’ll find a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and shops, catering to every traveler’s needs before or after their safari. Many choose to spend a day or two exploring Arusha before heading out to the national parks.


Arusha: Gateway to Northern Tanzania Adventures

From Arusha City, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Day trips to Arusha National Park, home to Mount Meru, offer stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing, including giraffes, zebras, and various primate species. It’s a fantastic spot for a shorter safari experience or a scenic hike. For those seeking a more extended journey, the city seamlessly connects you to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, and the rich biodiversity of Lake Manyara National Park. Many safari operators base themselves in Arusha, making it convenient to organize tours and logistics directly from here. This bustling center truly acts as the heartbeat of northern Tanzania tourism. Whether you’re preparing for a mountain trek or a wildlife safari, Arusha City sets the perfect stage for your Tanzanian adventure.

Safari Tours to Arusha City

8 Days

Arusha City, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $1956

Per person per tour

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7 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $1586

Per person per tour

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5 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire NP

From $1069

Per person per tour

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9 Days

Arusha City, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $2592

Per person per tour

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13 Days

Arusha City, Arusha NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar Island

From $2560

Per person per tour

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12 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar Island

From $2467

Per person per tour

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15 Days

Arusha City, Arusha NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar Island

From $3005

Per person per tour

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11 Days

Arusha City, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar Island

From $2156

Per person per tour

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9 Days

Arusha City, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $2233

Per person per tour

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16 Days

Arusha City, Arusha National Park, Arusha NP, lake Eyasi, Lake Manyara NP, Lake Natron, Moshi Town, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $4563

Per person per tour

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Accommodations in Arusha City

Lake Ndutu Luxury Tented Lodge

Lake Ndutu Luxury Tented Lodge – Southern Serengeti, Tanzania Lake Ndutu Luxury Tented Lodge

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Niyara Lodge Arusha

Niyara Lodge Arusha Niyara Lodge Arusha sits at the heart of Tanzania’s northern safari

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Ishasha Jungle Lodge

Ishasha Jungle Lodge is an eco-friendly wilderness retreat near the Ishasha sector of Queen

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Haven Lodge (Buhoma Sector)

Haven Lodge Buhoma Community is a welcoming, community-run lodge on the edge of Bwindi

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Ichumbi Hotel (Kisoro)

Ichumbi Hotel is a stylish and comfortable hotel on Mutolele Road in the heart

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Travellers Rest Hotel

Travellers Rest Hotel is a historic hotel in Kisoro, southwestern Uganda. It offers a

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Marafiki Safari Lodge

Marafiki Safari Lodge is a charming safari lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park in

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The Haven – Eco River Lodge

The Haven Eco River Lodge is a peaceful riverside retreat in eastern Uganda, set

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Park View Safari Lodge

Park View Safari Lodge is a scenic safari lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park

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Buffalo Safari Lodge

Buffalo Safari Lodge is a safari lodge near the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth

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FAQ about Arusha City

Arusha is primarily known as:

  • The Safari Capital: It’s the starting point for most safaris to northern Tanzania’s world-famous national parks.
  • Mount Meru: The city sits at the base of this stunning volcanic mountain, which is popular for hiking and provides a dramatic backdrop.
  • Coffee Production: The surrounding areas are home to numerous coffee plantations, and coffee tours are a popular activity.
  • Cultural Melting Pot: Arusha has a diverse population with influences from various Tanzanian tribes, as well as European and Asian communities.
  • Diplomatic Hub: It has a history of hosting international organizations, including the African Union and UN offices.

While many travelers pass through Arusha quickly on their way to safaris, the city and its immediate surroundings offer several interesting activities:

  • Arusha National Park: A short drive from the city, this park offers a unique blend of landscapes, including Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes (with flamingos), and diverse wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and buffalo, often with fewer crowds than other parks. Walking safaris and canoeing are available here.
  • Cultural Heritage Centre: A great place to explore Tanzanian art, history, and culture, with an extensive collection of artifacts and a shop selling local crafts.
  • Tanzanite Museum: Learn about the rare Tanzanite gemstone, which is unique to Tanzania. You can see how it’s mined, cut, and polished, and even purchase some.
  • Maasai Market: A vibrant place to shop for local crafts, souvenirs, Maasai beadwork, fabrics, and other unique items. Be prepared to haggle!
  • Arusha Clock Tower: A historical landmark in the city center, often cited as the midpoint between Cairo and Cape Town.
  • Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour: A popular day trip involving a hike to beautiful waterfalls and a guided tour of a coffee plantation to learn about coffee production, from bean to cup, often ending with a fresh coffee tasting.
  • Chemka/Kikuletwa Hot Springs: A natural oasis with crystal-clear, warm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing, surrounded by fig trees.
  • Lake Duluti: A serene volcanic lake offering canoeing and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Meserani Snake Park: An educational center where you can see various snake species and learn about reptiles, often combined with a visit to a Maasai cultural museum nearby.
  • Old Boma Museum: Explore the colonial history of Arusha and the tribal history of the area.
  • Shanga: A non-profit organization that employs individuals with disabilities to create beautiful handcrafted items like glassware, textiles, and jewelry. It’s a great place to buy unique, ethically produced souvenirs.

Arusha has a mild and moderate climate due to its elevation.

  • Dry Season (June to October): Generally considered the best time for warm-weather activities and for connecting to safaris, as wildlife viewing in the parks is at its peak. It’s cooler and less humid.
  • Wet Season (November to May): The landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. This is also excellent for birdwatching. Temperatures are generally warm, with some overcast days. The “long rains” are typically from March to May, while “short rains” occur from November to December.

 

Arusha is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during daylight hours and in popular tourist areas. However, like any city, it’s essential to exercise caution:

  • Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded markets or bus stations. Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Nighttime: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit or less crowded areas. Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Bolt or InDriver).
  • Scams: Be wary of unsolicited offers from unofficial guides or overly cheap safari deals. Only use licensed operators.
  • Health: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever if coming from an endemic country, Typhoid, Hepatitis A). Malaria is endemic, so take antimalarials and use insect repellent, especially at dusk and dawn. Drink only bottled or treated water.

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). While US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist establishments, it’s good to have shillings for smaller purchases, local markets, and generally better rates. US Dollar banknotes should be in good condition and newer than 2006. ATMs are available, but it’s advisable to carry some cash. Credit cards are accepted in most lodges and larger shops.

The official language of Tanzania, and widely spoken in Arusha, is Swahili. Many people involved in tourism also speak English. Learning a few basic Swahili phrases (e.g., Jambo – Hello, Asante sana – Thank you very much, Mambo! – How are you? informal) will be appreciated by locals.

  • Taxis: The safest and most convenient option, especially at night. Agree on the fare before you start your journey or use ride-hailing apps.
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber, Bolt, and InDriver are available in Arusha and can be a convenient way to get around with transparent pricing.
  • Dala-dalas (Minibuses): These are local public minibuses, very cheap, but often crowded and can be chaotic. They are not recommended for tourists, especially at night, due to safety and comfort concerns.
  • Boda-bodas (Motorcycle Taxis): Fast and cheap, but also the riskiest option due to traffic and road conditions. Not recommended for general tourist transport.
  • Walking: Safe during the day in central areas, but always be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables.

Most visitors to Tanzania, including those going to Arusha, require a visa. You can often obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points (like Kilimanjaro International Airport, which serves Arusha) or apply for an e-visa in advance. Always check the latest visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling, as they can change.

 

Arusha offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

  • Luxury Lodges and Hotels: Often located amidst coffee plantations or on the outskirts of the city, offering high-end amenities (e.g., Arusha Coffee Lodge).
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable options in and around the city center.
  • Budget Guesthouses and Hostels: Catering to backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Boutique B&Bs: Smaller, more personalized lodging experiences.

Arusha serves as an essential hub for an incredible Tanzanian adventure, so consider spending a day or two exploring the city itself before or after your safari!

Weguide African Safari on Trip Advisor

Here’s what our travelers have to say about their experiences with Weguide African Safaris

Excellent rating
Based on 16 reviews
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Hiked Kilimanjaro (6 days) and went on a Safari (5 days Kilimanjaro Hike was amazing! Our guide (Mollel) and porters were all excellent. They were each knowledgable, encouraging and friendly. They took time to get to know us and understand our needs. They helped us feel comfortable with the challenge and enabled us to enjoy our trek from start to finish!Our Safari was equally outstanding! Again, we had terrific guides (Sam & Tembo). They, too, were knowledgable, accommodating and made each day a super fun adventure for all of us! They were incredible at tracking down all of the Big 5! They even found the black rhinos!The Value for the Money was unreal, as well. I would 100% recommend Soul of Tanzania to anyone who is looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Tanzanian experience!
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Shairanking F
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Unforgettable Safari and experience at its best Journey to Africa My friend and I did a 8 day Safari, starting in Tarangire NP, Serengeti central and South (Ndutu) with big Migration, Ngorongoro crater and Lake Tanganyika. All planning including our wishes and suggestions from Weguide Safari what is best for the time we were traveling were done with WhatsApp. The communication was very easy with very quick respondSo we had an excellent Safari with weguide africa safaris with nice, safe and quite large accommodations and tented camps, including good food.I think our guide Mollel will be the best guide you can find. He has a very good knowledge about animals and their behavior, wildlife and Tanzania culture. Besides he is helpful, friendly and a very good and save driver.We have seen all Big 5 and a great number of other animals living there.He even could find animals hidden under bushes or in trees in a great distance and getting closer we could watch them very, very nearby.My brother with family did the Safari before us with Guide Kennedy. and we all together have the same opinion that this Safari couldn't be topped.It was my best Safari I've done until now and I couldn't imagine getting something better. So much wildlife!!!!I would it recommend to 100%
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GreengatePeter
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SOLO TRIP TO TANZANIA SAFARI WITH WEGUIDE AFRICA SAFARIS ( 100% I RECCOMENDED WEGUID FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS) Tanzania as a safari destination has it all: if this is your first safari and your driving ambition is to get some amazing sightings and to rack up the big 5 as soon as possible then Ngorongoro Conservation Area is probably the best place in the world. Head for the Serengeti, however, if you have time for a longer safari and your goal is to take time to roam – moving as a nomad with the vast herds, or simply skitting across the savannah between the rock outcrops that are the lookout posts of the Serengeti prides. The Serengeti remains for me (alongside Botswana’s Kalahari) as one of the very best places in the world to experience the awe-inspiring vastness of the African wilderness. There is no feeling like being in the middle of the incomparable immensity of the savannah with no other vehicle in sight and a herd of wildebeest stretching as far as the eye can see towards the horizon.
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GoPlaces65996083400
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Tanzanian Romantic Safari for Couple Unforgettable honeymoon - safari & beach holidayOverall, great experience with WeGuide Celia has been extremely helpful in tailoring the itinerary for the safari and has assisted us all along the process.Our guide, Sam, and was always on time and truly did his best to show us all the possible animals within the visited parks. We've had nice lunches (with juice and wine) during the 5 days of Safari and the car was always sparkling clean in the morning when our guide was picking us up :) We would've appreciated our guide to be a bit more involved in the conversation (the answers we got to our questions about birds/animals weren't really detailed and we would've enjoyed talking/getting to know our guide a bit more, especially during our common lunches) but of course this didn't ruin our experience.Our safari was followed by a beach holiday in Zanzibar : Ceci has arranged a pick-up at the airport for us. The hotel (Z hotel in Nungwi) was also great and the honeymoon package made our holiday unforgettable.I can only recommend Soul of Tanzania and Tanzania in general. The safari is a magical experience everyone should have in a lifetime.
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phillip
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Viajero solo en la vida silvestre de Tanzania y safaris de experiencia en Zanzíbar Planeamos nuestro viaje a Tanzania junto con Cecie en weguide Safari. Le hemos dicho aproximadamente lo que queríamos hacer (lago Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti y Zanzibar) y ella sugirió el itinerario y el alojamiento que discutimos y adaptamos juntos. El Serengeti fue probablemente el más impresionante de los parques y tal vez si el tiempo hubiera sido un problema, me habría saltado el lago Manyara para ir directamente al Ngorongoro. (Aunque el alojamiento en el lago Manyara fue increíble, Escarpment Luxury Lodge). Todos los alojamientos tenían algo especial y terminar con un par de días de relax en Zanzíbar fue simplemente perfecto.
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Marion
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Great experience at Mara River (Serengeti) So nice to see and read about sam maasai guide. He was my guide when I visited Tanzania. I also had great game driving experiences, and yes, being patient definitely paid off time after time. We experienced elephants crossing the Mara River, and Sam explained how the matriarch makes the decision to cross and how the elephants would not all cross at once, rather cross in small groups of adults, babies, and elders. We stayed and saw group after group cross and come up the bak of the river directly beside our vehicle,. We also saw a group in the river stop and surround each other and then there was trumpeting by the herd on both sides of the river. Sam explained that they must have sensed danger like crockerdiles, and that they would reteat back; that’s exactly what happened and the trumpeting continued on both sides of the river for a while. When we returned to the Mara River Camp that evening, everyone was envious of our experience and commented how much they loved to have heard the elephants communicating. Like you and your son, we had great experiences every day. Love your photos and descriptions. It’s truly the trip of a lifetime
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Whistler
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Mikumi National park and Zanzibar island The Mikumi National Park is located in eastern Tanzania, some 100 kms south of Morogoro and 280 km west of Dar Es Salaam. It is next to the Selous Reserve and a few kilometers from the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. The wildlife includes monkeys, lions, leopards, panthers, elephants, giraffes zebras, hipos, etc. Approximately 360 different species of birds have been spotted. The park is very popular and is easily accessible from Dar Es Salaam. It is specially equipped for bird watching. Greenery includes the miombo forest which is dominated by Brachystegia spp. The Combretum-Terminalia forest is common between the hills and the plains along the river.In this lower part dominated by Acacia spp, Adansonia digitata baobab and Sterculia appendiculata and the top of gallery forest and riparian dense scrub along rivers Mgoda, Kikobogo and Mkata. The ebony Dalbergia melanoxylon, Sclerocarya caffra, Cassia abbreviata flabellifer and Hyphaene Borassus Ventricosa, Balanites aegyptiaca and Ficus spp are all very close to each other. They are common and important to elephants and baboona. A truly unforgettable experience. with weguide afrkca safaris
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ASHLEY P
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"Zanzibar family trip excursion" "This was our first trip with WeGuide Africa Safari - I believe it's no coincidence that the Bradt Africa guides are simply the best ones on the market and that WeGuide Africa are extraordinary in the depth of their knowledge of the situation on the ground and in their capacity to coordinate and synchronise everything to make it an excellent trip for a family with young children In Zanzibar excursion .We stayed Luxury property at Zuri hotel in Zanzibar .I saw some of the most amazing sights and things in Africa, which I would not have found without the guidance of WeGuide Africa Safari . And for the unforseeable and unavoidable occasional hick ups, the team is there to help where they can.I hope WeGuide Africa Safari stays a well kept secret
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Wilton Backer
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conquérir le Kilimandjaro" super 7 jours via machame route Bonjour mes amis de TripAdvisor.Je m'appelle Xavier.Je viens de rentrer d'une randonnée INCROYABLE sur le mont Kilimandjaro avec weguide Africa Safaris. J'y suis allé avec Erick le guide et il était IMPRESSIONNANT. Erick m'a tellement aidé à me sentir à l'aise tout au long du voyage et il m'a fait me sentir plus fort simplement en étant en sa présence.Tout d'abord, weguide Africa Safaris m'a aidé à chaque étape du processus de courrier électronique pour planifier le voyage. Ils sont tellement professionnels et organisés et m'ont fait me sentir vraiment très à l'aise et bienvenu pour voyager dans un pays étranger. (je viens de la FR)Je savais que c'était la bonne entreprise pour moi juste par la manière organisée et professionnelle de leurs e-mails. Ils vous guident à chaque étape.Si vous essayez de décider avec quelle compagnie escalader le Kilimandjaro ou avec quelle compagnie partir en safari, C'EST LA SEULE. WEGUIDE AFRICA SAFARIS est vraiment incroyable avec de très bons prix aussi.J'ai escaladé le mont Kilimandjaro avec Erick The Guide et il était un professeur tellement spectaculaire avec qui partager le voyage. Il avait tellement de connaissances sur la montagne et il a un VRAI amour pour la nature et l'exploration. . Erick The Guide et tout l'équipage qui nous a accompagnés étaient géniaux. L'équipage de porteurs que nous avions avec nous était tellement sympathique et accueillant. Ils m'ont vraiment fait me sentir chez moi pendant tout le voyage.Je sais que beaucoup de gens ont peur de voyager à cause de COVID. Mais je ne pense pas que cela devrait vous empêcher de venir en Afrique.Si quoi que ce soit, je pense que c'est le moment le plus courageux et le plus spontané pour parcourir le monde.J'ai passé un très bon moment avec WEGUIDE AFRICA SAFARIS et je pense que c'est le moment idéal pour explorer le monde. Allez saisir cette chance et VOYAGEZ. Cela pourrait juste changer votre vie.Erick The Guide et weuide Africa Safaris - vous étiez tous les meilleurs et je vous remercie de m'avoir donné l'opportunité d'escalader le mont Kilimandjaro.Quiconque lit ces mots - weguide Africa Safaris est super sympa, super professionnel et super organisé et ils ont des prix imbattables. N'ayez pas peur de suivre votre cœur. Le monde est fait pour être exploré.Merci Erick et toute l'équipe de weguide Africa Safaris qui ont facilité mon voyage. Je suis très reconnaissant de vous avoir trouvé.
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XAVIER
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Tanzania wildlife familiy safari with weguide africa safaris great company in Tanzania The trip was definitely a wonderful experience. The guide was very good, and that is one of the most important parts of a trip like this.Ngorongoro and Serengeti are two fantastic places, and we had the rare privilege of visiting with very little tourism, really feeling and breathing the place.With my current experience, I will change the first part of the trip avoiding lake Manyara and the long transfer of the first day, and planning at least two safaris in the crater
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