Arusha is a vibrant city located in northern Tanzania, near the border of Kenya. It serves as the gateway to several popular tourist destinations, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park. Here’s some key information about Arusha:
- Location: Arusha is situated at the foothills of Mount Meru and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including lush green hills and coffee plantations. It is located approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers.
- Gateway to Safaris: Arusha is often referred to as the “Safari Capital” of Tanzania. Many visitors start their wildlife adventures from here, as it provides convenient access to several national parks and conservation areas. From Arusha, you can embark on safaris to spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) and witness the famous wildebeest migration in the Serengeti.
- Cultural Hub: Arusha is a melting pot of cultures and serves as a meeting point for various ethnic groups, including the Maasai, Meru, and Chagga. The city hosts a vibrant local market, where you can explore traditional crafts, colorful fabrics, and local produce. You can also visit cultural centers and villages to learn about the traditions, customs, and lifestyles of the local communities.
- Arusha National Park: Located just a short drive from the city, Arusha National Park offers a unique combination of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to climb Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Africa. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various primate species.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: Arusha is the starting point for those seeking to conquer Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Many tour operators and climbing companies are based in Arusha and offer guided treks to the summit of this iconic mountain.
- Cultural and Historical Sites: Arusha is also home to several cultural and historical attractions. The Arusha Declaration Museum provides insights into Tanzania’s political history, while the Old Boma Museum showcases the region’s colonial past. You can also visit the nearby Engaruka Ruins, which are ancient archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s pre-colonial history.
- Accommodation and Services: Arusha offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and campsites. The city has various amenities and services, including restaurants, shopping centers, banks, and medical facilities, catering to the needs of travelers.
Arusha is a bustling city with a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities. Whether you’re embarking on a wildlife safari, planning a mountain trek, or exploring the rich culture of Tanzania, Arusha serves as an excellent base for your adventures in the northern part of the country.
Best things to do in Arusha Town:
Arusha, Tanzania offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do in Arusha:
- Visit Arusha National Park: Explore the scenic landscapes and wildlife of Arusha National Park. Take a game drive to spot wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys. Hike or drive to the summit of Mount Meru for stunning panoramic views.
- Take a Cultural Tour: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting Maasai villages and learning about their traditions and way of life. Experience traditional dances, see Maasai crafts, and interact with community members.
- Explore the Maasai Market: Visit the Maasai Market in Arusha to browse and shop for traditional crafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. It’s a vibrant market where you can find unique handmade items.
- Visit the Arusha Declaration Museum: Learn about Tanzania’s history and political development at the Arusha Declaration Museum. Discover the legacy of the Arusha Declaration, a document that shaped the nation’s path towards socialism and self-reliance.
- Enjoy Coffee Plantation Tours: Take a guided tour of a coffee plantation to learn about the process of coffee production. Experience coffee tasting sessions and gain insights into the importance of coffee to the local economy.
- Explore the Cultural Heritage Center: Visit the Cultural Heritage Center, located just outside Arusha, to discover a variety of Tanzanian arts, crafts, and artifacts. It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and traditional artwork.
- Visit the Tanzanite Experience: Learn about Tanzanite, a rare and precious gemstone found only in Tanzania. Visit the Tanzanite Experience, where you can see exhibits, learn about the mining process, and shop for authentic Tanzanite jewelry.
- Embark on a Safari: Arusha is the gateway to several renowned national parks, including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park. Join a safari tour to witness the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes of these iconic destinations.
- Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample the delicious Tanzanian cuisine in Arusha. Try traditional dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (maize porridge), and pilau (spiced rice). Visit local restaurants or street food stalls to savor the flavors of Tanzania.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or horseback riding in the beautiful surroundings of Arusha. There are several trails and natural areas that offer opportunities for adventure and exploration.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Arusha, Tanzania. The city provides a rich cultural experience, breathtaking natural beauty, and access to some of Africa’s most renowned wildlife destinations. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, history, or adventure, Arusha offers something for everyone.
Luxury Hotels in Arusha Tanzania:
Arusha, Tanzania offers a range of luxury hotels that provide top-notch accommodations, exceptional service, and a luxurious experience for visitors. Here are some of the luxury hotels in Arusha:
- Arusha Coffee Lodge: Located on a coffee plantation, Arusha Coffee Lodge offers luxurious accommodations in a serene and picturesque setting. The lodge features spacious suites with private decks, a swimming pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
- Mount Meru Hotel: Nestled at the foothills of Mount Meru, Mount Meru Hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel boasts beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, a fitness center, multiple restaurants and bars, and a spa.
- Arusha Serena Hotel: Situated in a lush garden setting, Arusha Serena Hotel provides luxurious rooms and suites with African-inspired decor. The hotel features a swimming pool, a fitness center, multiple dining options, a spa, and a gift shop.
- Legendary Lodge: Set in a peaceful and private garden estate, Legendary Lodge offers exclusive accommodations in individual cottages and garden houses. The lodge provides personalized service, a swimming pool, a spa, and gourmet dining experiences.
- Kibo Palace Hotel: Kibo Palace Hotel offers upscale accommodations with modern amenities and stylish decor. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Rivertrees Country Inn: Located on a picturesque riverbank, Rivertrees Country Inn offers luxury cottages and rooms surrounded by lush gardens. The inn features a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Lake Duluti Serena Hotel: Situated near Lake Duluti, Lake Duluti Serena Hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with stunning lake views. The hotel features a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, multiple dining options, and beautiful landscaped gardens.
- Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge: This boutique hotel is set within a coffee plantation and offers luxurious accommodations with private balconies or terraces. The lodge features a swimming pool, a spa, a gourmet restaurant, and personalized coffee experiences.
These luxury hotels in Arusha provide a combination of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service to ensure a memorable stay. Whether you’re visiting for a safari adventure or simply to relax and unwind, these hotels offer the perfect setting to indulge in luxury and enjoy the beauty of Arusha, Tanzania.
Budget Hotels in Arusha Tanzania:
Arusha, Tanzania offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels that provide comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. Here are some budget hotels in Arusha:
- Outpost Lodge: Located in the heart of Arusha, Outpost Lodge offers clean and comfortable rooms at budget-friendly rates. The lodge provides amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk.
- Green Mountain Hotel: Green Mountain Hotel offers affordable rooms with basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, conference facilities, and a garden area. It is conveniently located near the city center.
- Mc-Elly’s Hotel: Mc-Elly’s Hotel provides budget-friendly rooms with comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms. The hotel offers a restaurant, a bar, and free Wi-Fi. It is situated in a convenient location, close to shops and restaurants.
- Arusha Backpackers Hotel: Arusha Backpackers Hotel is a popular choice among budget travelers. It offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at affordable rates. The hotel has a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and a bar.
- Hotel Aquiline: Hotel Aquiline offers budget accommodations with basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and free Wi-Fi. It is located near the city center, making it convenient for exploring Arusha.
- Charity Hotel International: Charity Hotel International provides budget rooms with simple furnishings and en-suite bathrooms. The hotel offers a restaurant, a bar, and free Wi-Fi. It is situated in a quiet neighborhood, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- The African Tulip: The African Tulip is a boutique hotel that offers affordable rooms with modern amenities. While it is categorized as a mid-range hotel, it often offers competitive rates for budget travelers. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa.
These budget hotels in Arusha provide comfortable accommodations and basic amenities at affordable prices. They are ideal for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for a cost-effective stay without compromising on comfort.
Tanzania Safari tours from Arusha town:
Arusha, Tanzania is a popular starting point for safari tours due to its proximity to several renowned national parks and conservation areas. Here are some popular safari tours that you can take from Arusha:
- Serengeti National Park: Embark on a safari tour to Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Witness the annual wildebeest migration, spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), and explore the vast savannah plains.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Take a safari tour to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Experience game drives within the crater’s walls, where you can encounter an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos, and an array of bird species.
- Tarangire National Park: Explore Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy game drives to spot elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, and various bird species that inhabit this diverse ecosystem.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Join a safari tour to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and the beautiful Lake Manyara itself. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, which include forests, grassy plains, and a soda lake, attracting a wide variety of wildlife.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: While not a traditional safari tour, many visitors to Arusha also choose to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Several tour operators offer guided treks to the summit, allowing you to experience the unique ecosystems and breathtaking views along the way.
- Arusha National Park: Discover the beauty of Arusha National Park, located just a short drive from the city. Enjoy game drives to spot wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys. You can also hike or drive to the summit of Mount Meru, the park’s prominent peak.
When planning a safari tour from Arusha, it is recommended to book with a reputable tour operator or safari company. They can customize your itinerary, provide experienced guides, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey. Whether you’re interested in wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, or challenging adventures, there are safari tours from Arusha to suit every traveler’s preferences.
