Nestled in the northern region of Tanzania, Arusha is known as the safari capital of the country. Often seen as the gateway to iconic national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha is much more than a stopover. It offers rich cultural experiences, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Arusha has something unforgettable in store for you.
In this guide, we explore the top things to do in Arusha Tanzania to help you plan an exciting and meaningful trip.
1. Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most underrated gems. Despite its smaller size compared to Serengeti or Tarangire, it offers incredible biodiversity.
-
Wildlife: Giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and flamingos.
-
Activities: Game drives, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and walking safaris with armed rangers.
-
Highlight: Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, lies within the park and is a popular trekking destination.
2. Explore Mount Meru
For those seeking adventure, climbing Mount Meru is a fantastic alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro.
-
Duration: 3–4 days round trip.
-
Altitude: 4,566 meters (14,980 feet).
-
Highlights: Less crowded trails, beautiful views of Kilimanjaro, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.
3. Take a Cultural Tour to a Maasai Village
The Maasai are one of Tanzania’s most recognized indigenous tribes. Visiting a local Maasai village lets you experience their traditional lifestyle.
-
Activities: Learn about their customs, dances, cattle herding, and architecture.
-
Tip: Choose a sustainable and ethical tour that supports the local community.
4. Discover the Local Markets
Arusha’s local markets are buzzing with color, culture, and flavor. The Central Market is a great place to observe everyday Tanzanian life.
-
What to Buy: Fresh produce, local spices, fabrics, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
-
Tip: Practice your bargaining skills, and always ask before taking photos.
5. Stop by the Cultural Heritage Centre
A unique blend of gallery, museum, and shopping complex, the Cultural Heritage Centre showcases Tanzanian art and heritage.
-
What to See: African sculptures, Tanzanite jewelry, tribal masks, and paintings.
-
Best For: Art lovers and cultural explorers.
-
Bonus: It has a great café and souvenir shop.
6. Enjoy Coffee Tours Around Arusha
Tanzania is known for its high-quality Arabica coffee. Take a coffee tour at a nearby plantation in places like Usa River or Nkoaranga village.
-
Experience: Walk through coffee fields, learn the bean-to-cup process, and taste freshly brewed coffee.
-
Cultural Bonus: Many coffee farms are operated by local cooperatives and include home-cooked meals and traditional songs.
7. Relax at Lake Duluti
Just outside Arusha lies the tranquil Lake Duluti, perfect for relaxing, bird watching, or light kayaking.
-
Activities: Canoeing, hiking around the lake, and spotting kingfishers and eagles.
-
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for bird activity and photography.
8. Shop for Tanzanite
Arusha is the global hub for Tanzanite, a rare blue gemstone found only in northern Tanzania.
-
Where to Buy: Certified jewelers and Tanzanite Experience Museum in the city center.
-
Tip: Always request certificates of authenticity and avoid street sellers.
9. Take a Day Trip to Ngorongoro or Tarangire
If you have a day or two to spare, take a short drive to some of Africa’s most spectacular national parks.
-
Ngorongoro Crater: Known as the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera and teeming with wildlife.
-
Tarangire National Park: Famous for its elephants, baobab trees, and seasonal river crossings.
10. Visit the Natural History Museum
Located in the heart of Arusha, this museum tells the story of human evolution and the region’s archaeological significance.
-
Highlights: Fossils, rock art, history of early man, and colonial artifacts.
-
Great For: History buffs and families.
Where to Stay in Arusha
-
Budget: Outpost Lodge, Arusha Backpackers
-
Mid-Range: Mount Meru Hotel, Green Mountain Hotel
-
Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge, Gran Meliá Arusha
How to Get There
Arusha is easily accessible:
-
By Air: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport for domestic flights.
-
By Road: Connected to major cities via bus and shuttle services.
Best Time to Visit Arusha
-
Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for safaris and outdoor adventures.
-
Green Season (November to May): Lush landscapes, bird watching, and fewer tourists — though rains may affect some activities.
Conclusion
Arusha is more than just a gateway to Tanzania’s famous safaris. It’s a cultural, historical, and natural hub that deserves a spot on any traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’re climbing Mount Meru, sipping locally grown coffee, or exploring vibrant markets, Arusha promises a rewarding and authentic African experience.
