Arusha is the safari capital of East Africa and the primary gateway to Tanzania's legendary northern circuit, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Sitting at an elevation of 1,400 meters in the shadow of Mount Meru, this bustling highland city serves as the staging ground for virtually every northern Tanzania safari. Arusha is known for its vibrant Maasai culture, world-class coffee plantations, and its role as the headquarters of the East African Community. While most visitors pass through quickly, the city rewards those who linger with bustling markets, cultural tours, and the unexpected pleasure of watching safari vehicles rumble through busy streets alongside boda-bodas. Whether you are planning a Serengeti migration safari, a Kilimanjaro climb, or a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, your journey almost certainly starts here.
Things to Do in Arusha
Cultural Heritage Centre
Museum/ShoppingExtensive collection of African art, gemstones (including Tanzanite), and crafts. Good for last-minute shopping before flying home.
Duration: ~2 hours
Maasai Market
MarketVibrant market for crafts, beadwork, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected and part of the experience.
Duration: ~2 hours
Mount Meru
HikingTanzania's second-highest peak (4,566m). A 3-4 day trek through rainforest, moorland, and volcanic landscapes with wildlife sightings and stunning views of Kilimanjaro. Often used as acclimatization before Kilimanjaro.
Duration: ~72 hours
Arusha National Park
National ParkA compact park just 40 minutes from the city center, featuring Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and the lower slopes of Mount Meru. One of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris are permitted. Excellent for a half-day trip before or after your main safari.
Duration: ~4 hours
Coffee Plantation Tour
Cultural/AgriculturalVisit a local coffee farm in the foothills of Mount Meru. Learn the bean-to-cup process from Chagga or Meru farmers and sample some of Tanzania's finest arabica coffee.
Duration: ~3 hours
Arusha Neighborhoods
Where to stay and explore
City Center
Generally safe, watch valuables in crowdsBustling, authentic, chaotic
Busy commercial area with the clock tower, markets, and local restaurants. The clock tower roundabout marks the midpoint between Cairo and Cape Town on the Cape-to-Cairo road.
Price level: $
USA River
Very safeQuiet, green, upscale
Peaceful area between Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airport, home to upscale lodges and coffee plantations. Many visitors spend their first or last night here before airport transfers.
Price level: $$$
Njiro / Kijenge
SafeModern, developing, comfortable
Modern residential neighborhoods south and east of the city center with shopping malls, mid-range hotels, and international restaurants. The area around Njiro Road has become Arusha's most popular dining strip.
Price level: $$
Sekei / Old Moshi Road Corridor
Very safeLeafy, lodge-friendly, convenient
The corridor leading east toward Moshi and Kilimanjaro Airport. Home to several popular safari lodges, the Cultural Heritage Centre, and boutique hotels set in lush gardens.
Price level: $$-$$$
Food & Restaurants
Arusha has a growing food scene catering to safari travelers, from local Tanzanian cuisine to international options.
Must-Try Dishes
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, a Tanzanian staple
Ugali
Maize porridge served with meat and vegetables
Pilau
Spiced rice with meat, influenced by coastal cuisine
Top Restaurants
The Blue Heron
$$$International • USA River
Fine dining with garden setting
Africafe
$$Cafe/Western • City Center
Coffee, light meals, safari meet-ups
Arusha Nightlife
Arusha's nightlife is limited but growing. Most safari travelers prefer early nights before game drives.
Best areas: City Center
Empire Sports Bar
BarCity Center
Popular expat and tourist hangout
Shopping in Arusha
Arusha is great for Maasai crafts, Tanzanite gemstones, and African art.
Malls
Markets
- Central Market - Local market
- Maasai Market - Craft market
What to Buy
Safety in Arusha
Arusha is relatively safe for East Africa. Use common sense, especially around the bus station and at night.
Safe Areas
- ✓ Tourist hotels
- ✓ USA River lodges
- ✓ Arusha Coffee Lodge area
Avoid
- ✗ Bus station area at night
- ✗ Unlit streets after dark
Safety Tips
- • Use hotel-arranged transport
- • Don't walk alone at night
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Agree on taxi prices before getting in
Getting Around Arusha
Safari vehicle
RecommendedMost visitors travel by operator-arranged 4x4.
Included in safari
Taxi
RecommendedNegotiate price before departure. Hotels can arrange reliable drivers.
$5-15 within town
Dala-dala
Local minibuses. Cheap but crowded and confusing for visitors.
$0.50-1
Arusha Weather
Highland tropical
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| january | 28°C | 15°C | 60mm | Hot, some rain |
| february | 29°C | 15°C | 40mm | Hot, drier |
| march | 27°C | 16°C | 130mm | Long rains begin |
| april | 25°C | 16°C | 250mm | Heavy rain |
| may | 23°C | 14°C | 100mm | Rains taper |
| june | 22°C | 12°C | 20mm | Dry, cool |
| july | 22°C | 11°C | 10mm | Dry, coolest |
| august | 23°C | 12°C | 10mm | Dry, warming |
| september | 26°C | 13°C | 15mm | Dry, warm |
| october | 27°C | 14°C | 30mm | Short rains begin |
| november | 26°C | 15°C | 100mm | Short rains |
| december | 27°C | 15°C | 80mm | Rains continue |
How Many Days in Arusha?
1
Minimum
2
Recommended
3
Ideal