Arusha is a busy city of about half a million people at the foot of Mount Meru, at around 1,400 metres. It is the starting point for almost every safari in northern Tanzania, and the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Lake Manyara are all within reach.
Things to do
- Central market and Maasai Market for spices, fabric and crafts.
- The Cultural Heritage Centre, a large gallery of African art and crafts.
- The Clock Tower, said to mark the halfway point between Cape Town and Cairo.
- Coffee farms on the slopes of Mount Meru.
- Tanzanite showrooms and museums. Read about tanzanite.
Day trips
- Arusha National Park: walking safaris, the Momella Lakes and canoeing.
- Waterfalls and villages on Mount Meru’s slopes.
- Lake Duluti, a crater lake for walks and canoeing.
- A climb of Mount Meru, three or four days. Read about climbing Mount Meru.
Where to stay
Many travellers stay in quieter lodges on coffee estates or along the road to the airport around Usa River, rather than in the centre. They are greener and calmer, and easy for an early safari start.
How long to stay
One night before your safari is usually enough, two if you arrive late or want a day trip. Read about Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Safety
Take normal city care: keep valuables hidden and use arranged transport at night. Avoid street touts selling safaris. Read common scams.
See the Northern Loop, which starts and ends in Arusha.
Frequently asked questions
As a base, yes. One night is enough for most travellers, with optional day trips to Arusha National Park or coffee farms.
About 325 km to the central Serengeti, a full day by road, or about an hour by plane.
Generally, with normal city precautions. Use arranged transport at night.
