Arusha is the safari capital of East Africa, the gateway to Tanzania's legendary northern circuit including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Kilimanjaro. This bustling highland city sits in the shadow of Mount Meru and serves as the staging ground for virtually every northern Tanzania safari. While most visitors pass through quickly, Arusha rewards those who linger with vibrant markets, cultural experiences, and the unexpected pleasure of watching safari vehicles rumble through busy streets alongside boda-bodas.
Things to Do in Arusha
Cultural Heritage Centre
Museum/ShoppingExtensive collection of African art, gemstones, and crafts. Good for last-minute shopping.
Duration: ~2 hours
Maasai Market
MarketVibrant market for crafts, beadwork, and souvenirs. Bargaining essential.
Duration: ~2 hours
Mount Meru
HikingTanzania's second-highest peak (4,566m). 3-4 day trek with wildlife and stunning views.
Duration: ~72 hours
Arusha Neighborhoods
Where to stay and explore
City Center
Generally safe, watch valuablesBustling, authentic, chaotic
Busy commercial area with the clock tower, markets, and local restaurants.
Price level: $
USA River
Very safeQuiet, green, upscale
Peaceful area between Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airport, home to upscale lodges.
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
1
Recommended
2
Ideal