Arusha- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Discovering Arusha: location, character & history

Nestled in the northeastern region of Tanzania, Arusha occupies a strategic setting at the foot of Mount Meru, overlooking the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley. Sitting at an elevation of about 1,400 metres, the city enjoys a generally temperate climate that contrasts the lower plains of the region.

Often referred to as the “safari capital” of Tanzania, Arusha has grown into a lively hub for travel and culture. Its population is diverse—indigenous African, Arab-Tanzanian, Indian-Tanzanian and expatriate communities all contribute to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Historically, Arusha was first a settlement of the local communities, later becoming a German military outpost in the early 1900s and later a British township. It was declared a city in 2012 under its municipal status. These layers of history are evident in its architecture, layout and mix of modern and colonial-era features.

Highlights & experiences in Arusha

Arusha’s appeal lies not only in its own urban dynamics but in its proximity to some of East Africa’s most renowned natural and safari destinations. From here you can access the Arusha National Park—with soda-lakes, flamingos and a chance to glimpse the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro across the plains.

Within the city and its surroundings, there are plenty of experiences:

• Stroll the open-air markets, browse colourful fabrics and craft shops.
• Savour Tanzania-grown coffee in a local café.
• Visit the interactive exhibition at the Tanzanite Experience to learn about the gemstone unique to this region.

For the active traveller, hiking in the foothills of Mount Meru, canoeing on Lake Duluti, or taking a cultural tour to meet Maasai communities add depth to your stay. The city also supports a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene—local food, cafés which champion Tanzanian coffee culture, and relaxed bars offer a contrast to the safari-focus.

Seasonality is important when planning your stay. The long dry season from June through October tends to be the most popular for safari as game sightings improve. Conversely, the wetter months (March to May) bring lush scenery and fewer crowds.

Planning your visit: logistics, stay & tips

Getting there & around: Arusha is served by nearby airports—international flights land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (~60 km away) and domestic flights to Arusha Airport. Road transport links the city with safari lodges, parks and neighbouring cities. Within town, minibuses (dala-dala) and taxis operate; agree fares ahead of time.

Accommodation & budget: Options range from budget guest-houses in the city to luxury lodges on coffee plantations perched on the slopes of Mount Meru. Stay in the city if you want convenience, or choose the outskirts for quiet and immersive nature-surroundings.

Essential travel tips:

• Pack for variable weather (cooler mornings/evenings at higher elevation).
• Carry local currency (Tanzanian shillings) for markets and local transport.
• Use Arusha as your base for safari circuits—book ahead for parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro during peak season.
• Respect local culture—Tanzania is warm and welcoming, but norms differ from Western-urban settings.
• Stay hydrated and travel with basic insect-repellent, especially if venturing into the parks or forested areas.

Final thoughts

Arusha offers more than just a starting point for safaris—it provides a lively mix of culture, nature and convenience. Whether you’re planning a multi-park adventure or a short stay to explore local life, this city combines access and authenticity. Use Arusha as your base, enjoy its streets, coffee, markets and mountain views—and the next day venture out into Tanzania’s wild, remarkable landscapes.