Welcome! We are African Delight Safari and so excited you’ve made it to Arusha, the buzzing, beautiful heart of Northern Tanzania. You’re standing in the “Green City,” which isn’t just the starting point for your dream Tanzania tour it’s an adventure in itself!
We know you’re eager to get out there. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best things to do in Arusha. Whether you’re fueling up before your journey into the Serengeti or winding down afterward, our Arusha Day Tours are packed with every fantastic experience the region offers. Get ready for wildlife, amazing local culture, and incredible memories at every Arusha tourist attraction, it all starts here!
Why Visit Arusha?
Arusha sits at the foot of Mount Meru, one of the highest mountains in Africa and the 2nd in Tanzania. It is the crucial gateway to some of a Tanzania safari’s most spectacular natural wonders, such as the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Meru. Tourists can expect a vast range of activities in Arusha Tanzania, from hiking and wildlife viewing to rich cultural tours and coffee tastings.
Thanks to its location beneath Mount Meru, Arusha enjoys ample rainfall and stays verdant throughout the seasons. This, along with its multicultural population with indigenous tribes, Tanzanians of mixed Arab, Swahili, and Indian heritage, and an established foreign community gives Arusha its unique charm. While it supports high-level diplomatic functions (hosting UN and African Union offices), the city feels laid-back, friendly, and accessible.
If you happen to be in town before or after your safari, do not remain in your hotel room. We will be discussing in great detail some of the best tourist attractions in Arusha and you can also read about the best things to see in Dar es Salaam or Fun activities in Zanzibar. If you also plan on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, then you might find our article about the tourist attractions in Moshi useful.
Where Is Arusha?
Arusha is located in northeastern Tanzania, specifically in the Arusha Region. It sits on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley’s eastern arm and is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Mount Kilimanjaro in Moshi Town The city’s high altitude, at around 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level, contributes to its pleasant climate. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the volcanic massif of Mount Meru, a centerpiece of the adjacent Arusha National Park. The border with Kenya is easily accessible from this city, effectively linking Arusha with other East African cities like Nairobi via established overland transport routes.
From here, travelers can easily access northern circuit wildlife parks and of course, Mount Kilimanjaro. Because of that, Arusha is often called the safari capital of Tanzania.
Getting Around Arusha
Getting around Arusha this vibrant city and its surroundings is half the fun. With stunning scenery abound, travelling between each adventure will be a sightseeing experience in itself.
- By Bus or Public Transport: Get a glimpse into local life and culture as you hop aboard one of Arusha’s colourful (and mostly crowded) buses or shared minivans, called dala dalas. While routes can be confusing for newbies, fares are extremely cheap, and you’ll get to chat with friendly locals. A more private option is using a tuk tuk or rickshaw for convenient movement around Arusha
- Self Drive: Nothing beats the freedom of having your own set of 4×4 wheels. Splurge on a rental car or 4WD vehicle to journey on your own schedule. Driving yourself allows you to venture to more remote areas and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
- Join an Organized Tour/safari from Arusha: From budget day trips to luxury bespoke safaris, Arusha offers a wealth of tour options. Join a small group trip to maximize convenience and safety with the insight of experienced guides.
THE TOP BEST THINGS TO DO IN ARUSHA
1. Walking Safari & Game Drives in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is near the city, surrounding Mount Meru which you will see from all over Arusha. Enjoy a day trip to Arusha National Park where buffalos and giraffes are in abundance. You will also spot elephants, zebras, primates, and various bird species. The best part? The absence of lions and big predators means you can do a walking safari Arusha there! This is a unique experience where you’ll see soda lakes, flamingos, large mammals, and Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest mountain. If you’re lucky, you’ll also take in the splendor of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro. The park organizes mountain hiking, game drives, horse riding, biking, canoeing, and nature walks.
- Canoeing on Momella Lakes: Canoeing is mostly done at the Momella lakes, a group of alkaline lakes found in the park. This stands out because it is the best way to experience the full beauty of the park, its animals, and birds.
2. Climb Mount Meru
Climbing Mount Meru is a fantastic choice for a multi-day hike. This dormant volcano, found in Arusha National Park, is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania (5th in Africa) with a height of 4562 meters. This is the perfect practice ground for those who are planning on hiking the more challenging and nearby Mount Kilimanjaro.
The 3–4-day climb begins in Arusha National Park, where you’re likely to see giraffes, buffalo, and colobus monkeys. All treks are accompanied by an armed ranger, required by park regulations and helpful for spotting wildlife along the way. The reward is beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the national parks, and lake sightings. Hiking Mount Meru is cheaper than Kilimanjaro and often used as a warm-up by enthusiastic travelers.
3. Play Golf in Arusha Town or Outskirts
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to meet local professionals and enjoy stunning views, try golfing in Arusha.
- Kilimanjaro Golf Club: This 1,040-acre estate set between Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro is Tanzania’s first 18-hole championship golf course, offering a luxury option with private airstrip access and wildlife viewing.
- Gymkhana Golf Club: Located 30 kilometers away, this club boasts a challenging 9-hole golf course that promises a good golfing experience and hosts many local, national, and international sporting events.
4. Take a Day Trip to Tarangire National Park: The Land of Giants
A day trip to Tarangire National Park is one of the most rewarding things to do from Arusha, especially for wildlife lovers and photographers. Located just under 2.5 hours’ drive from the city, Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit stop along the northern Tanzania safari circuit. The park is particularly spectacular during the dry season (June to October), when thousands of animals migrate to the Tarangire River, the park’s only permanent water source, creating dramatic scenes of wildlife gatherings. Expect to spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and a variety of predators including lions, leopards, and even cheetahs.
Birdwatchers will also be in paradise, as Tarangire hosts over 500 bird species, including hornbills, eagles, and colorful bee-eaters. Though less crowded than the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Tarangire delivers big on game viewing, and its serene, off-the-beaten-path feel makes it ideal for a Tanzania safari tour that avoids the crowds. For those staying in Arusha, it’s the perfect full-day escape into the wild.
5. Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai Mountain
Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the Mountain of God by the Maasai, is one of the most intense and spiritually rich adventures you can experience near Arusha. Located in the remote Gregory Rift Valley near Lake Natron, this active volcano stands at 2,962 meters or 9717 feet and is the only carbonatite volcano in the world, producing rare low-temperature lava. The mountain is sacred to the local Maasai people, adding a deep cultural layer to your journey.
The climb is steep, physically demanding, however, the reward is unmatched: sunrise reveals sweeping views of the East African Rift Valley, Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Highlands, and the eerie active crater itself. The climb is not for the faint-hearted, but for adventure seekers looking for unique things to do near Arusha, this sacred mountain offers a raw, unforgettable experience. It’s best combined with a visit to nearby Lake Natron, known for its surreal landscape and massive flamingo colonies, making this region one of Tanzania’s most fascinating hidden gems
6. Visit Lake Natron: Lesser Flamingo Breeding Site
Visiting Lake Natron is one of the most surreal and otherworldly day trips from Arusha and a must for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Located in a remote, arid region near the Kenyan border and at the foot of Ol Doinyo Lengai (the Mountain of God), this soda lake is famous for its bright red waters, mineral-rich mudflats, and its status as the largest breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos in East Africa.
Despite the lake’s extreme environment, with temperatures reaching up to 42°C and high alkalinity, it supports millions of flamingos who feed on the lake’s blue-green algae. Beyond its unique ecology, the area also offers opportunities for short hikes to nearby waterfalls, visits to ancient hominin footprints, and cultural interactions with the local Maasai communities.
7. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre & Shopping
The Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is a top spot for exploring Tanzanian culture and shopping for quality souvenirs. This unique complex features tribal artifacts, African art, sculptures, and one of the best selections of Tanzanite gemstones in the region. It’s the perfect place to learn about Tanzania’s diverse heritage while browsing for certified jewelry, wood carvings, fabrics, and paintings. For a more local market vibe, stop by the Maasai Market Curio Shop, where artisans sell handmade crafts. It’s one of the most rewarding and convenient things to do in Arusha especially if you’re looking to take home a piece of Tanzania.
💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, check out the Maasai Market Curio and Crafts Shop near the Clock Tower.
8. Explore Tanzanite Experience Museum and Buy Precious Gemstones
Right in the heart of Arusha, the Tanzanite Experience Museum walks you through the backstory of one of the rarest gemstones in the world: tanzanite. It’s only found near Mount Kilimanjaro. The museum covers how tanzanite was discovered, how it forms, and how it’s mined and cut. It is an interesting stop for anyone curious about this unique stone.
9. Canoe in Lake Duluti
Canoeing Lake Duluti is a relaxing day trip from Arusha just 20 minutes from the city center. This crater lake is surrounded by forest, which is home to birds, small primates, and reptiles. Canoeing offers the best chance to see the lake’s biodiversity and enjoy views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. It is important to use a local Guide to find the best spots.
This emerald-green crater lake, nestled at the base of Mount Meru, is surrounded by dense forest and volcanic cliffs, making it a peaceful escape from the bustling safari routes. The lake is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with over 130 bird species including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, cormorants, and even rare osprey. Along the shores, you might spot small primates, monitor lizards, butterflies, and a variety of forest reptiles.
For those looking to explore more deeply, nature walks and guided hikes around the lake offer additional insight into the area’s geology, flora, and fauna. Whether you’re into birding, photography, or just want to enjoy a quiet paddle on the water, Lake Duluti is one of the most underrated activities from Arusha that blends adventure and relaxation perfectly.
10. Arusha Coffee Tour
Nestled on the lush slopes of Mount Meru, Arusha is surrounded by thriving coffee plantations that produce some of the finest Arabica beans in East Africa. Many farms open their doors to visitors for guided coffee tours that walk you through the entire coffee journey from planting and harvesting, to roasting and brewing. You’ll learn about traditional processing methods, sample freshly brewed Tanzanian coffee, and gain insight into the daily lives of local farmers.
Some of the best tours can be found at places like Arusha Coffee Lodge, where you can stay right on a working plantation and enjoy immersive, farm-to-cup experiences. Along the way, you’ll also spot scenic views, meet local producers, and often enjoy a traditional meal. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a true enthusiast, touring a coffee farm is one of the most flavorful and authentic things to do in Arusha and a great way to support local agriculture and sustainable tourism.
💡 Pro Tip: Buy Tanzanian coffee from local supermarkets, as it is often cheaper than in tourist shops.
11. Visit the Maasai Tribe – Experience a Cultural Tour from Arusha
No visit to northern Tanzania is complete without connecting with the Maasai people, one of Africa’s most iconic and resilient tribes. A Maasai cultural tour from Arusha offers you the chance to go beyond the wildlife and dive deep into Tanzania’s vibrant traditions. While many safari packages include rushed and commercialized Maasai village visits, more authentic and immersive experiences like those at Olpopongi Maasai Village, just 85 km from Arusha, allow you to respectfully engage with the community.
During your visit, you’ll take part in traditional dances, storytelling sessions, guided nature walks to learn about local plants and wildlife, and enjoy a taste of traditional Maasai cuisine. Staying overnight in a Maasai boma (homestead) adds an even deeper layer of cultural understanding. You’ll learn about the tribe’s age-old customs, nomadic lifestyle, and efforts to balance tradition with modern challenges. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast or simply curious, spending time with the Maasai is one of the most powerful and educational cultural activities in Arusha, offering a rare glimpse into a way of life that has endured for centuries.
12. Check Out Meserani Snake Park and Maasai Museum
Just a short drive from Arusha, the Meserani Snake Park is a fun and educational stop for families and wildlife lovers. It’s home to a wide variety of snakes including cobras, puff adders, and mambasas well as crocodiles, lizards, and birds. You can even hold a snake if you’re brave enough! The park also features the Maasai Cultural Museum, where local guides share insight into Maasai traditions, tools, and way of life. It’s one of the more interactive and accessible tourist attractions in Arusha, blending wildlife education with cultural learning in a relaxed setting.
13. Visit Lake Manyara National Park: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
A day trip to Lake Manyara National Park from Arusha is ideal for nature and bird lovers. Just a 2-hour drive away, the park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, and over 400 bird species, including thousands of flamingos that turn the lake’s shores pink. The park’s diverse habitats from groundwater forests to open savannah and also host giraffes, hippos, baboons, and more. It’s one of the most scenic and compact safari destinations near Arusha, offering rich wildlife viewing without the crowds.
14. Tour Meru Camp & Explore Napuru Waterfalls
Tucked into the lush slopes of Mount Meru, just outside Arusha, Meru Eco Camp is an ideal destination for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and cultural connection, all in one place. The camp offers eco-friendly accommodation in tented lodges with stunning forest views, making it a perfect escape from the busy city. The highlight is a guided hike to Napuru Waterfalls, a beautiful hidden cascade surrounded by greenery and local wildlife. But that’s just the beginning. The camp also offers a wide range of eco-tourism and recreational activities including ziplining, quad biking, archery, painting workshops, and forest hikes. It’s a great spot for camping, birdwatching, and soaking in nature while supporting sustainable tourism. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic getaway, Meru Eco Camp blends adventure, relaxation, and environmental consciousness making it one of the top off-the-beaten-path attractions in Arusha.
Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Arusha
- How can I get to Arusha?
You can get to Arusha by air or road. For air travel, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) and then connect to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), or take a direct international flight to KIA. The Arusha Municipal Airport handles domestic flights. By road, buses run from Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala.
- How far is Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) from Arusha?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) is 46 kilometers away from Arusha.
- What are the options for getting from the airport to Arusha city center?
Upon arriving at either airport, you can hire a taxi to the town center or arrange for your tour operator to pick you up.
- How will I get around while in Arusha?
The most popular and cheapest means of transport within the city is tuk tuk and the minibus known as a dala dala. Taxis are also available. For a guided experience, you can hire a tour operator with a professional Guide/Driver.
- Is accommodation readily available in Arusha?
Yes, Arusha accommodation offers high-quality options ranging from ultra-luxury, luxury, mid-range, to budget hotels, lodges and facilities.
- Where can I find accommodation with wilderness views?
If you prefer accommodation outside the city, you can book lodges close to the national parks or the nearby Ngorongoro crater.
- Is accommodation in the city cheaper than near the national parks?
Yes, accommodation facilities within the city are generally cheaper than those found in or close to the national parks due to the difference in taxes and concession fees.
- How safe is Arusha for international tourists?
Arusha is relatively safe, but tourists need to exercise caution. Key safety tips include: not walking alone at night, agreeing on taxi/car prices beforehand, being aware of petty thieves (do not carry bags or phones openly), and moving with a local Guide outside the city center.
- When is the best time to visit Arusha?
Arusha has a temperate climate year-round. The dry season (June to October, and Nov to Feb) is ideal for safaris as wildlife gathers at water sources. The wet or rainy season (March to May) offers lush scenery and less crowded parks but may cause muddy roads.
- What types of safari experiences can I book from Arusha
Arusha is the perfect starting point for a variety of safari options in Tanzania, tailored to fit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous yet comfortable camping safari to immerse yourself in nature, a well-balanced midrange safari combining comfort and affordability, or a lavish luxury safari experience with top-notch amenities, you’ll find it all available from Arusha.
For those who love the outdoors and want to camp close to nature, check out our Tanzania Camping Safaris. If you prefer a mix of comfort and adventure, our Tanzania Midrange Safaris offer great value without compromising on quality, and for travelers seeking the finest accommodations and exclusive experiences, explore our Tanzania Luxury Safaris to indulge in unparalleled comfort.
No matter your style, starting your safari adventure in Arusha means easy access to Tanzania’s top wildlife parks and natural wonders.
