Arusha City

Arusha is primarily known as:

• The Safari Capital: It’s the starting point for most safaris to northern Tanzania’s world-famous national parks.
• Mount Meru: The city sits at the base of this stunning volcanic mountain, which is popular for hiking and provides a dramatic backdrop.
• Coffee Production: The surrounding areas are home to numerous coffee plantations, and coffee tours are a popular activity.
• Cultural Melting Pot: Arusha has a diverse population with influences from various Tanzanian tribes, as well as European and Asian communities.
• Diplomatic Hub: It has a history of hosting international organizations, including the African Union and UN offices.

While many travelers pass through Arusha quickly on their way to safaris, the city and its immediate surroundings offer several interesting activities:

• Arusha National Park: A short drive from the city, this park offers a unique blend of landscapes, including Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes (with flamingos), and diverse wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and buffalo, often with fewer crowds than other parks. Walking safaris and canoeing are available here.
• Cultural Heritage Centre: A great place to explore Tanzanian art, history, and culture, with an extensive collection of artifacts and a shop selling local crafts.
• Tanzanite Museum: Learn about the rare Tanzanite gemstone, which is unique to Tanzania. You can see how it’s mined, cut, and polished, and even purchase some.
• Maasai Market: A vibrant place to shop for local crafts, souvenirs, Maasai beadwork, fabrics, and other unique items. Be prepared to haggle!
• Arusha Clock Tower: A historical landmark in the city center, often cited as the midpoint between Cairo and Cape Town.
• Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour: A popular day trip involving a hike to beautiful waterfalls and a guided tour of a coffee plantation to learn about coffee production, from bean to cup, often ending with a fresh coffee tasting.
• Chemka/Kikuletwa Hot Springs: A natural oasis with crystal-clear, warm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing, surrounded by fig trees.
• Lake Duluti: A serene volcanic lake offering canoeing and birdwatching opportunities.
• Meserani Snake Park: An educational center where you can see various snake species and learn about reptiles, often combined with a visit to a Maasai cultural museum nearby.
• Old Boma Museum: Explore the colonial history of Arusha and the tribal history of the area.
• Shanga: A non-profit organization that employs individuals with disabilities to create beautiful handcrafted items like glassware, textiles, and jewelry. It’s a great place to buy unique, ethically produced souvenirs.

Arusha has a mild and moderate climate due to its elevation.

• Dry Season (June to October): Generally considered the best time for warm-weather activities and for connecting to safaris, as wildlife viewing in the parks is at its peak. It’s cooler and less humid.
• Wet Season (November to May): The landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. This is also excellent for birdwatching. Temperatures are generally warm, with some overcast days. The “long rains” are typically from March to May, while “short rains” occur from November to December.

Arusha is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during daylight hours and in popular tourist areas. However, like any city, it’s essential to exercise caution:

• Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded markets or bus stations. Keep valuables out of sight.
• Nighttime: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit or less crowded areas. Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Bolt or InDriver).
• Scams: Be wary of unsolicited offers from unofficial guides or overly cheap safari deals. Only use licensed operators.
• Health: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever if coming from an endemic country, Typhoid, Hepatitis A). Malaria is endemic, so take antimalarials and use insect repellent, especially at dusk and dawn. Drink only bottled or treated water.

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). While US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist establishments, it’s good to have shillings for smaller purchases, local markets, and generally better rates. US Dollar banknotes should be in good condition and newer than 2006. ATMs are available, but it’s advisable to carry some cash. Credit cards are accepted in most lodges and larger shops.

The official language of Tanzania, and widely spoken in Arusha, is Swahili. Many people involved in tourism also speak English. Learning a few basic Swahili phrases (e.g., Jambo – Hello, Asante sana – Thank you very much, Mambo! – How are you? informal) will be appreciated by locals.

• Taxis: The safest and most convenient option, especially at night. Agree on the fare before you start your journey or use ride-hailing apps.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber, Bolt, and InDriver are available in Arusha and can be a convenient way to get around with transparent pricing.
• Dala-dalas (Minibuses): These are local public minibuses, very cheap, but often crowded and can be chaotic. They are not recommended for tourists, especially at night, due to safety and comfort concerns.
• Boda-bodas (Motorcycle Taxis): Fast and cheap, but also the riskiest option due to traffic and road conditions. Not recommended for general tourist transport.
• Walking: Safe during the day in central areas, but always be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables.

Most visitors to Tanzania, including those going to Arusha, require a visa. You can often obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points (like Kilimanjaro International Airport, which serves Arusha) or apply for an e-visa in advance. Always check the latest visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling, as they can change.

Arusha offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

• Luxury Lodges and Hotels: Often located amidst coffee plantations or on the outskirts of the city, offering high-end amenities (e.g., Arusha Coffee Lodge).
• Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable options in and around the city center.
• Budget Guesthouses and Hostels: Catering to backpackers and budget travelers.
• Boutique B&Bs: Smaller, more personalized lodging experiences.

Arusha serves as an essential hub for an incredible Tanzanian adventure, so consider spending a day or two exploring the city itself before or after your safari!