Why Go to Arusha
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Arusha is where Tanzania safaris begin. Known as the country's safari capital, this lively city sits at the foot of Mount Meru and is the jumping-off point for the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and the rest of the northern safari circuit.
Most travelers spend a night or two here to rest up before heading out, and there's plenty to enjoy. Take a guided walk or game drive in Arusha National Park, where giraffes, buffalo and colobus monkeys roam the forests below Mount Meru. Tour a nearby coffee plantation to see how Tanzanian coffee goes from bean to cup. Browse beautiful African art and crafts at the Cultural Heritage Centre.
To get there, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport with connections through hubs like Amsterdam, Doha or Addis Ababa. On a clear day, watch for the snowcapped summit of Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds as you land. I'll plan your arrival, lodge and safari departure so the adventure starts smoothly, and I can add Zanzibar for beach time at the end.
BEST FOR
Safari travelers, hikers, coffee lovers and culture seekers
BEST MONTHS
June to October
EXPLORE
- City Center: Markets and restaurants.
- Usa River: Lodges near Arusha National Park.
- Coffee Estates: Lodges on the outskirts.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Arusha
Africa › East Africa › Tanzania › Arusha Region
The gateway to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro.
National Parks & Nature
Safari
Gateway
Basecamp
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Spend a day in Arusha National Park before your safari; it's a great introduction to the region and offers walking and canoe safaris.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Try a walking safari.
Arusha National Park
A small park with giraffes, flamingos and views of Mount Meru.
Book with a licensed guide.
Mount Meru
Tanzania's second-highest mountain, with a multi-day climb.
Allow time to browse.
Cultural Heritage Centre
A huge gallery and shop with African art and crafts.
Great for families.
Meserani Snake Park
A snake park with a Maasai cultural museum.
Look for buffalo on the crater floor.
Ngurdoto Crater
A crater in Arusha National Park.
A luxurious hotel with views of Mount Meru.
Gran Meliá Arusha
Arusha
Hotel Tags
A lodge set on a coffee plantation.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha
Hotel Tags
A boutique lodge on a coffee estate.
Legendary Lodge
Arusha
Hotel Tags
A large hotel with gardens and a pool.
Mount Meru Hotel
Arusha
Hotel Tags
A modern hotel in the city center.
Kibo Palace Hotel
Arusha
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Arusha
High 81°F · Low 55°F · Rain 1.9 in
The short rains begin, and the migration heads south.
The best time to visit Arusha is June through October, during the dry season, when wildlife viewing is at its best. January to March is also good, especially for the calving season in the southern Serengeti.
Best Times to Visit Arusha
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Arusha's dining scene ranges from Tanzanian dishes to international cuisine.
- Nyama choma: Grilled meat is popular.
- Local dishes: Try ugali, pilau and chapati.
- Must-try: Nyama choma, pilau, chapati and Tanzanian coffee.
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Walking
The city center can be explored on foot during the day.
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Shuttles
Shuttles connect Arusha with Nairobi and Moshi.
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Taxis
Taxis are available in the city.
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Safari Vehicles
Most travelers explore with a safari operator.
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Safari Flights
Arusha Airport (ARK) handles flights to safari destinations.
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Flying In
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is about an hour away.
Most travelers fly into Kilimanjaro International and transfer to Arusha. From there, safari operators and flights connect to the national parks.
Getting Around Arusha