Arusha is a city in East Africa's Tanzania, located at the base of volcanic Mt. Meru. It's a gateway to safari destinations and to Africa's highest peak, 5,895m Mt. Kilimanjaro, lying some 100 kilometers northeast. To the west lies Serengeti National Park, home to wildlife including lions, rhinoceros, giraffes and leopards. Annual migrations feature huge herds of wildebeests crossing its plains. ― Google
Dry season (June–October): Best for safaris and trekking; clear skies and minimal rain.
Short dry season (January–February): Good weather, especially for birdwatching.
Wet seasons:
March–May (long rains): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, but some muddy roads.
November–December (short rains): Light rains with green scenery and baby animals.
By air:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – 45 min from Arusha; serves international and domestic flights.
Arusha Airport (ARK) – Small, handles domestic flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, etc.
By road:
Buses and shuttles connect Arusha with Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Moshi, and other major towns.
Private transfers and taxis are available for comfort and flexibility.
Arusha National Park – Just 30 minutes from the city, perfect for a half- or full-day safari with wildlife, lakes, and Mt. Meru views.
Mount Meru – Second-highest mountain in Tanzania; offers stunning multi-day treks.
Cultural Heritage Centre – Gallery, crafts, and souvenirs in a striking building.
Maasai Market – Handcrafted jewelry, textiles, art, and wood carvings.
Meserani Snake Park – Educational center with snakes, crocodiles, and a Maasai museum.
Tanzanite Experience Museum – Learn about the rare blue gemstone mined nearby.
Clock Tower (Arusha Monument) – A symbolic central point between Cairo and Cape Town.
Lake Duluti – Serene volcanic lake ideal for canoeing, birding, and nature walks.
Safari starting point – Arusha is the launchpad for:
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire and Lake Manyara
Hike Mount Meru – A 3–4 day climb with fewer crowds than Kilimanjaro.
Cultural tours – Visit nearby Maasai, Meru, or other tribal villages.
Coffee tours – Tour local plantations, learn about coffee growing and enjoy tastings.
Volunteer or take Swahili lessons – Many NGOs and cultural centers offer short-term programs.
Relax in local cafes – Arusha has a growing coffee and food scene.
Budget: Guesthouses and hostels in the city center or outskirts
Mid-range: Boutique hotels and eco-lodges with mountain views
Luxury: Safari lodges or resorts with gardens and pools
Unique: Coffee lodges and tented camps near Arusha National Park or on the edge of town
Tanzanian dishes:
Ugali (cornmeal porridge)
Nyama choma (grilled meat)
Pilau, samaki wa kupaka (coconut fish)
International cuisine: Indian, Italian, Ethiopian, and vegetarian options available
Popular spots:
Khan’s BBQ
Fifi’s
Blue Heron
George’s Tavern
Local street food: Chapati, maandazi (fried dough), roasted corn, sugarcane juice
Arusha is a multicultural city with strong Maasai, Chagga, Meru, and international influences.
Swahili is the national language — learning basic greetings is appreciated.
People are generally warm, helpful, and respectful.
Markets are bustling and colorful — a great way to experience daily life.
Modest dress is recommended, especially in villages or religious settings.
Use local guides or tour operators for safaris and treks.
Carry cash – Many places don’t accept cards, especially outside the city.
Use bottled water and stay hydrated.
Taxis and dala-dalas (minibuses) are the main local transport; negotiate prices beforehand.
Beware of altitude – Arusha sits at 1,400 m (4,600 ft), so take it slow if coming from sea level.
Mosquito repellent is essential, especially during the rainy seasons.