Arusha, nestled in the shadows of Mount Meru in northern Tanzania, is far more than just a safari staging post. This vibrant city of approximately 650,000 residents serves as the undisputed gateway to Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, including the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Yet Arusha deserves recognition as a destination in its own right, offering a captivating blend of Tanzanian culture, bustling markets, excellent coffee culture, and stunning highland scenery.

Set at an elevation of 1,400 metres above sea level, Arusha enjoys a pleasant year-round climate that makes it one of East Africa’s most comfortable cities. The city seamlessly weaves together traditional Maasai and Meru cultures with cosmopolitan influences brought by the international safari industry. From the aromatic spice markets and vibrant Maasai bead sellers to world-class restaurants and luxury lodges, Arusha provides an authentic taste of Tanzania whilst offering all the conveniences modern travellers expect.

The city serves as both the perfect launching pad for epic safari adventures and a cultural destination worthy of several days’ exploration, showcasing Tanzania’s remarkable diversity and the warm hospitality that makes this corner of East Africa so special.

When to Visit Arusha?

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant time to visit Arusha is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to March. During these months, temperatures are comfortable during the day (typically 20-26°C/68-79°F) and cool at night (10-15°C/50-59°F), with minimal rainfall and clear mountain views of both Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.

Seasonal Breakdown

Dry Season (June-October): Ideal conditions with warm days, cool nights, and spectacular visibility of surrounding peaks. This coincides with the Great Migration in the Serengeti, making it peak safari season. Expect higher accommodation prices, and booking is essential.

Short Dry Season (December-March): Another excellent period with warm temperatures and clear skies. This is calving season in the Serengeti, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The Christmas and New Year periods see premium pricing.

Long Rains (March-May): Heavy afternoon downpours transform the landscape into lush green beauty. Lower tourist numbers mean better rates, but some roads to safari destinations may be challenging. Many lodges close for maintenance during April-May.

Short Rains (November): Brief showers that freshen the air and clear dust. Often overlooked by tourists, this can be an excellent time to visit with fewer crowds and reasonable prices.

How to Get to Arusha?

By Air

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Located 50km east of Arusha, this is the main gateway for international visitors. The airport serves flights from Amsterdam (KLM), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), and various regional destinations.

Arusha Airport (ARK): A smaller airport 7km west of the city centre, primarily serving domestic flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and charter flights to safari destinations.

Airport Transfers: Shuttle services cost approximately $25-35 USD from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha city centre. Private transfers range from $40-60 USD. Most safari operators include airport transfers in their packages.

By Land

From Nairobi: The Nairobi-Arusha shuttle bus (approximately 5-6 hours) costs around $25-30 USD and runs daily. The border crossing at Namanga is straightforward for most nationalities.

From Dar es Salaam: Luxury buses like Kilimanjaro Express operate daily services (8-10 hours) for approximately $20-30 USD.

Self-Drive: Well-maintained tarmac roads connect Arusha to major East African cities. Vehicle hire with a driver is recommended for safari circuits.

Getting Around in Arusha

Boda-bodas (Motorcycle Taxis): Quick and affordable ($1-3 USD) for short distances, though not suitable for luggage or during rain.

Dala-dalas (Local Buses): Minibuses following set routes throughout the city for under $1 USD. An authentic local experience, but often crowded.

Taxis: Readily available throughout the city. Negotiate prices beforehand; short trips cost $3-8 USD.

Ride-Sharing: Uber and Bolt operate in Arusha with transparent pricing and GPS tracking.

Car Rental: Numerous agencies offer vehicles from $40-80 USD per day. 4WD vehicles are recommended for safari circuits.

Walking: The city centre is compact and walkable during daylight hours, with most attractions within easy reach.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Arusha

Historical and Cultural Sites

Cultural Heritage Centre: Tanzania’s largest cultural centre, showcasing traditional art, crafts, and cultural performances. The complex includes galleries, craft workshops, and a superb restaurant overlooking Mount Meru.

Arusha Declaration Monument: Historic site commemorating Tanzania’s 1967 socialist declaration. The small museum provides insight into Tanzania’s post-independence political history.

Central Market: The heart of Arusha’s commercial life, this bustling market offers everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional textiles and carved souvenirs.

Maasai Market: Authentic market where Maasai women sell handcrafted beadwork, traditional clothing, and ornaments. Perfect for cultural interaction and unique souvenirs.

German Boma: Colonial-era fort now housing government offices, representing Arusha’s complex historical layers from German colonial times through the British mandate period.

Museums and Galleries

Natural History Museum: Excellent introduction to Tanzania’s geology, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Features impressive displays of human evolution and regional wildlife.

Arusha Heritage Centre: Private museum showcasing the region’s tribal cultures, particularly focusing on Maasai and Meru traditions.

Gallery Kijenge: Contemporary art gallery featuring works by local and East African artists, often hosting exhibitions and cultural events.

Markets and Shopping

Central Market: Multi-level market complex selling fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. The spice section is particularly aromatic and photogenic.

Maasai Curio Market: Dedicated craft market near the Cultural Heritage Centre specialising in traditional beadwork, wooden carvings, and Tanzanite jewellery.

Shoprite Centre: Modern shopping mall with international brands, restaurants, and a large supermarket for safari supplies.

Blue Plaza Shopping Centre: Local shopping complex with banks, restaurants, and shops selling everything from electronics to clothing.

Parks and Nature

Arusha National Park: Just 45 minutes from the city, this compact park offers walking safaris, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and spectacular views of Mount Meru. Home to giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and over 400 bird species.

Mount Meru: Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 metres. The 3-4 day climb offers spectacular scenery and serves as excellent acclimatisation for Kilimanjaro attempts.

Snake Park: Educational centre showcasing East African reptiles and hosting cultural performances. Also features a Maasai cultural museum and traditional dancing displays.

Lake Duluti: Crater lake 15km from Arusha, perfect for canoeing, birdwatching, and peaceful walks through the surrounding forest.

Day Experiences

Coffee Plantation Tours: Visit working coffee farms to learn about Tanzania’s renowned coffee production from bean to cup. Many include tastings and lunch with local families.

Maasai Village Visits: Authentic cultural experiences in traditional Maasai bomas, including traditional dancing, local customs demonstrations, and handicraft workshops.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Float over the Serengeti plains during dawn balloon flights, followed by a champagne breakfast in the wilderness.

Walking Safaris: Guided walks through Arusha National Park offer intimate wildlife encounters and geological education impossible from vehicle safaris.

Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Tanzanian dishes like ugali, nyama choma, and pilau rice using local ingredients and traditional methods.

Where to Stay in Arusha

Luxury Hotels and Lodges

Gran Meliá Arusha (from $280 USD/night): Five-star international hotel with stunning Mount Meru views, spa facilities, multiple restaurants, and conference facilities. The rooftop terrace offers spectacular sunset views.

Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge (from $350 USD/night): Boutique lodge set in coffee plantations with luxury plantation-style accommodation. Each suite features private decks and fireplaces.

Mount Meru Hotel (from $200 USD/night): Historic hotel with lush gardens, multiple restaurants, and excellent conference facilities. Popular with safari groups and business travellers.

Legendary Lodge (from $250 USD/night): Eco-luxury lodge with stunning architecture, organic gardens, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.

Rivertrees Country Inn (from $180 USD/night): Charming colonial-style lodge set in extensive gardens with river frontage. Excellent restaurant and peaceful atmosphere.

Mid-Range Hotels

Four Points by Sheraton Arusha (from $120 USD/night): International standard hotel with good amenities, central location, and reliable service. Features an outdoor pool and fitness centre.

Venus Premier Hotel (from $90 USD/night): Modern hotel with comfortable rooms, restaurant, and business facilities. Good value with professional service.

Kibo Palace Hotel (from $80 USD/night): Well-located hotel with spacious rooms, restaurant, and conference facilities. Popular with business travellers and safari groups.

New Safari Hotel (from $70 USD/night): Centrally located with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace. Good base for exploring the city centre.

Africana Grand Hotel (from $85 USD/night): Modern hotel with good facilities, including a swimming pool, restaurant, and conference rooms.

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses

Outpost Lodge (from $25 USD/night): Popular backpacker accommodation with dormitory and private rooms, communal kitchen, and social atmosphere. Great for meeting fellow travellers.

Masai Camp (from $30 USD/night): Budget accommodation with basic but clean rooms, a restaurant, and helpful staff for safari bookings.

Arusha Backpackers Hotel (from $20 USD/night): Centrally located budget option with dormitory and private rooms, plus safari booking services.

Golden Rose Hotel (from $35 USD/night): Clean, simple accommodation with en-suite rooms and helpful staff. Good value for money in the city centre.

Green Mountain Hotel (from $28 USD/night): Basic but comfortable rooms with en-suite facilities and a restaurant. Budget-friendly option near the bus station.

Best Areas to Stay

City Centre: Convenient for restaurants, markets, and cultural sites. It can be noisy, but walking distance to most attractions.

Kijenge: Upmarket residential area with luxury lodges and good restaurants. Quieter than the city centre with mountain views.

Njiro: Growing area with a mix of accommodation options and easy access to safari departure points.

AICC Area: Near Arusha International Conference Centre, with many hotels catering to business travellers and conference attendees.

Food and Dining in Arusha

Local Specialities

Ugali: Staple cornmeal porridge served with most meals, similar to polenta. Best enjoyed with stews and vegetables.

Nyama Choma: Grilled meat (usually goat, beef, or chicken) often served with ugali and vegetables. A social dining experience is typically shared among groups.

Pilau: Fragrant spiced rice dish influenced by Indian and Arabic cooking traditions. Often served during celebrations and special occasions.

Mishkaki: Marinated beef or chicken kebabs grilled over charcoal. Popular street food and restaurant starter.

Chipsi Mayai: Tanzanian-style chips omelette, a beloved comfort food combining French fries with scrambled eggs.

Mandazi: Sweet, slightly spiced fried bread perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. Similar to doughnuts but less sweet.

Tanzanian Coffee: Some of the world’s finest Arabica coffee grows on the slopes of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Try locally roasted varieties.

Top Restaurants

Via Via Restaurant ($$): Popular traveller hangout serving excellent international and local cuisine. Great atmosphere with live music and cultural events.

Chinese Whispers ($$$): Upmarket Chinese restaurant with authentic dishes and elegant atmosphere. Excellent service and extensive menu.

Braai Restaurant ($$): South African-style steakhouse specialising in grilled meats and traditional sides. Popular with safari guides and expats.

Khan’s BBQ ($$): Renowned for excellent Indian and Pakistani cuisine. The biryani and tandoori dishes are particularly outstanding.

Africafe ($): Local chain serving good coffee, light meals, and pastries. Multiple locations with reliable quality and reasonable prices.

Stiggy’s Restaurant ($$): Long-established restaurant serving international cuisine with outdoor seating. Known for friendly service and reasonable prices.

Mambo Restaurant ($$$): Upmarket dining with an international menu and excellent wine selection. Beautiful garden setting with Mount Meru views.

Everest Indian Restaurant ($$): Authentic Indian cuisine with extensive vegetarian options. Popular with locals and visitors seeking quality curry dishes.

Cafés and Coffee Shops

Café Bamboo ($): Cosy café with excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and light meals. Popular breakfast spot with outdoor seating.

Union Café ($): Trendy coffee shop with speciality coffee drinks, smoothies, and healthy breakfast options. Good WiFi for digital nomads.

Java House ($$): East African coffee chain with reliable quality, good food, and comfortable seating. Multiple locations throughout the city.

Shanga Café ($): Social enterprise café employing disabled artisans. Excellent coffee and light meals while supporting a worthy cause.

Street Food and Local Eateries

Mama Lishe Stalls ($): Traditional local food stalls serving ugali, beans, vegetables, and meat dishes. Authentic and very affordable.

Clock Tower Area: Numerous small restaurants and food stalls serving local specialities. Great for experiencing authentic Tanzanian street food.

Central Market Food Court ($): Various food vendors offering traditional dishes, fresh fruit, and local snacks at very reasonable prices.

Bars and Nightlife

Via Via Bar: Popular with travellers and locals, featuring live music, cultural events, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Colobus Bar: Lively local bar with pool tables, local beers, and occasional live music. Good for meeting locals and fellow travellers.

Blackhole Club: Upmarket nightclub with DJ music, cocktails, and dancing. Popular weekend destination for younger crowds.

Triple A Bar: Sports bar with multiple screens showing international sports, plus pool tables and local beer selection.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Arusha National Park

Just 45 minutes from the city centre, this compact park offers exceptional walking safaris, canoeing on the alkaline Momella Lakes, and spectacular Mount Meru views. The park is home to giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, and over 400 bird species. The Ngurdoto Crater provides excellent wildlife viewing, while the montane forests host black and white colobus monkeys. Entry fees are USD 45 for adults.

Mount Meru Climbing

Tanzania’s second-highest peak offers excellent acclimatisation for Kilimanjaro climbers and spectacular scenery for all hikers. The 3-4 day climb passes through diverse ecosystems from montane forest to alpine desert. The summit provides breathtaking sunrise views over Kilimanjaro. Climbing fees start at approximately USD 600 per person for a 4-day trek.

Cultural Heritage Centre

This impressive complex showcases Tanzania’s cultural diversity through art galleries, craft workshops, and cultural performances. The centre features one of Africa’s largest collections of Tanzanite gemstones and offers insights into traditional crafts, including Makonde wood carving and Tingatinga painting. Entry is free, though guided tours cost USD 10.

Coffee Plantation Tours

Visit working coffee farms on the slopes of Mount Meru to learn about Tanzania’s renowned coffee production. Tours typically include walking through coffee gardens, processing demonstrations, cupping sessions, and a traditional lunch with farming families. Half-day tours cost approximately $40-60 USD per person.

Maasai Cultural Village Tours

Authentic visits to traditional Maasai communities offer insights into pastoralist culture, traditional architecture, and ancient customs. Activities include traditional dancing, beadwork demonstrations, and discussions about the Maasai lifestyle and beliefs. Full-day cultural tours cost approximately $80-120 USD per person.

Lake Duluti Forest Reserve

This crater lake, 15km from Arusha, offers peaceful canoeing, forest walks, and birdwatching opportunities. The lake is surrounded byan indigenous forest home to various bird species and small mammals. Canoe rental costs approximately $15 USD per hour, and guided forest walks are available.

Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour

Located on Kilimanjaro’s slopes, this full-day excursion combines spectacular waterfall viewing with coffee plantation experiences. The 70-metre Materuni Falls requires a moderate 45-minute hike through banana and coffee plantations. Combined tours cost approximately $80-100 USD per person.

Practical Information for First-Time Visitors

Currency

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, though US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Current exchange rates fluctuate around 2,300-2,500 TZS per USD. ATMs are readily available throughout Arusha city centre, dispensing both Tanzanian Shillings and US Dollars. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, though cash is preferred for markets and small vendors.

Language

English and Swahili are both official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic Swahili phrases like “Jambo” (hello), “Asante” (thank you), and “Karibu” (welcome) is appreciated by locals and enhances cultural interactions.

Safety Tips

Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or electronics publicly. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing services after dark. Keep passport copies separate from originals. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help with safari bookings, as scams targeting tourists do occur. Store valuables in hotel safes and never leave items visible in parked vehicles.

Health

Arusha’s elevation and climate create minimal malaria risk, though prophylaxis may still be recommended depending on travel plans to lower altitude areas. Tap water quality varies; bottled water is recommended for drinking. The high altitude sun is intense; use strong sunscreen and wear hats. Several excellent private hospitals serve Arusha, including Mount Meru Regional Hospital and Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Most nationalities can obtain a visa-on-arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport or advance e-visas online. Tourist visas cost USD 50 for a single entry and USD 100 for multiple entries. A passport validity of six months minimum is required. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are mandatory for travellers arriving from infected areas.

Business Hours

Government offices: Monday-Friday 7:30-15:30 (lunch break 12:30-14:00) Banks: Monday-Friday 8:30-16:00, Saturday 8:30-13:00 Shops and markets: Monday-Saturday 8:00-18:00, Sunday 9:00-14:00 Restaurants: Most open daily, typically 7:00-22:00

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Restaurant tips of 10% for good service are standard. Safari guides typically receive $10-15 USD per day per client. Hotel porters expect $1-2 USD per bag. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips unless they provide exceptional service.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Good WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafés. Local SIM cards with data packages are affordable and readily available from Vodacom, Airtel, or Tigo outlets. International roaming can be expensive; purchasing local data packages is recommended for extended stays.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

Tanzanians are generally warm and welcoming. Greet people with “Jambo” or “Habari” and shake hands. Dress modestly, especially when visiting local markets or cultural sites. Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques. Respect photography restrictions and always ask permission before photographing people. Bargaining is expected in markets, but should be done respectfully.

Sustainable Tourism Tips

Support local businesses and community tourism initiatives. Choose operators committed to conservation and fair employment practices. Avoid purchasing products made from endangered species or contributing to environmental degradation. Respect wildlife and maintain appropriate distances during game viewing. Consider carbon offset programs for flights and choose eco-certified accommodations when possible.

Events and Festivals

Kilimanjaro Marathon (February/March)

International marathon featuring routes around Mount Kilimanjaro’s base. Attracts runners worldwide with spectacular mountain scenery.

Maasai Cultural Festival (August)

Annual celebration of Maasai culture featuring traditional dancing, music, and crafts. Usually held in nearby Maasai communities.

Tanzania Tourism Fair (October)

Major tourism industry event showcasing operators, attractions, and cultural performances from across Tanzania.

Coffee Harvest Festival (May-July)

Seasonal celebrations in coffee-growing areas feature harvest demonstrations, coffee tastings, and cultural performances.

Suggested Itineraries

One Day in Arusha

Morning: Start with breakfast at Café Bamboo before exploring Central Market and Maasai Market for cultural immersion and souvenir shopping.

Afternoon: Visit the Cultural Heritage Centre for a comprehensive introduction to Tanzanian culture, followed by lunch at their restaurant with Mount Meru views.

Evening: Sunset drinks at Via Via Restaurant, followed by dinner and possible live music or cultural performances.

Two Days in Arusha

Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary above.

Day 2: Full-day Arusha National Park safari including walking safari, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater wildlife viewing. Return for dinner at Khan’s BBQ.

Three Days in Arusha

Days 1-2: Follow the two-day itinerary above.

Day 3: Coffee plantation tour in the morning, visiting working farms and learning about coffee production. Afternoon visit to Snake Park and Maasai cultural museum, evening farewell dinner at Mambo Restaurant.

Shopping Guide for First-Time Visitors

Souvenirs and Local Crafts

Tanzanite Jewellery: Tanzania’s unique blue gemstone, found only near Arusha. Purchase from reputable dealers with certificates of authenticity.

Makonde Wood Carvings: Intricate sculptures by the Makonde people of southern Tanzania. Look for pieces signed by individual artists.

Tingatinga Paintings: Colourful African art style originated in Tanzania. Authentic pieces are painted on canvas or masonite with enamel paints.

Maasai Beadwork: Traditional jewellery and ornaments with cultural significance. Each colour and pattern has a specific meaning in Maasai culture.

Coffee and Spices: High-quality Arabica coffee beans and local spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves make excellent edible souvenirs.

Kikoy and Kanga Textiles: Traditional East African cotton fabrics with beautiful patterns and Swahili sayings.

Where to Shop

Cultural Heritage Centre: Largest selection with guaranteed authenticity, though prices reflect quality and convenience.

Maasai Curio Market: Best prices for beadwork and traditional crafts, with opportunities to meet artisans directly.

Central Market: Authentic local shopping experience with textiles, spices, and everyday items alongside tourist goods.

Blue Plaza Shopping Centre: Modern mall with fixed-price shops, good for electronics, clothing, and contemporary items.

Airport Shops: Limited selection but convenient for last-minute purchases with duty-free options available.

This guide represents authentic, current information compiled from extensive research and local knowledge. Prices quoted are approximate and subject to seasonal variation and exchange rate fluctuations. Always confirm current rates and availability when making reservations.