Arusha

Introduction

You will find Arusha situated in Tanzania as the capital of the Arusha Region.

Before you go

Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha offers a pleasant climate and lush greenery due to its altitude. While some travelers view the city as a mere stopover before heading into the wild, you can find local charm and a vibrant atmosphere if you look beyond your safari accommodations. The area is also significant for hosting the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and serving as the site of the Arusha Declaration.

To ensure your safety while navigating the city, follow these precautions:

• Avoid walking at night alone or in groups; instead, use a cab and agree on the fare before the journey begins.
• Refrain from using motorcycle taxis, particularly at night near clubs, to avoid theft.
• Be cautious when carrying backpacks or bags while walking in the city center or along Old Moshi Road.
• If approached by touts, do not stop or make eye contact; simply say "hapana asante" to move past them.
• Hire a guide if you plan to walk outside of the central district, and avoid crossing the bridge on Old Moshi Road on foot.
• Do not drink the local water, as it contains high levels of fluoride even when treated with purification tablets.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via two different airports. Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as a primary gateway with international flights from several destinations, including Amsterdam and nearby regional hubs. While many airlines provide shuttle services to the city center, you can also opt for a taxi. If you require a visa upon arrival at this airport, ensure you have large-denomination bills, as smaller notes and coins are not accepted. Alternatively, Arusha Municipal Airport sits on the outskirts of the city and handles domestic flights and charters.

For those traveling by land, Arusha serves as a major transport hub with extensive bus connections throughout the country. You can find direct express coaches to various destinations, including neighboring cities like Moshi and Karatu, or further afield to locations such as Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. For a different experience, an overnight train service runs from Dar es Salaam via Moshi, and a shorter rail journey connects Arusha to Moshi.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using daladalas, which are ubiquitous minibuses serving all main routes. While these vehicles are affordable, they often carry many passengers to maximize profit and are prone to accidents. To stay safe from pickpocketing on these buses, keep your bags on your lap rather than in your pockets. Alternatively, taxis are plentiful throughout the area; however, you should always agree upon a price with the driver before beginning your journey.

If you prefer to hire a car, most companies will provide their own drivers for your trip. You may choose to drive yourself if you have experience navigating gravel roads and an appetite for adventure. While flat tyres occur frequently on these routes, they are manageable as you can find assistance at any filling station.

Where to stay

Arusha offers a wide range of accommodations to suit your preferences, from central city hotels to luxurious lodges situated in scenic surroundings. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, you can find basic rooms at Centre House near the clock tower or stay at the Annexe at L'Oasis Lodge in the village of Sekai. If you prefer a lively atmosphere with nearby bars and services, consider staying at Maasai Camp or the Snake Park located further out on Dodoma Road.

Depending on your travel style, you can choose from various options:

• Budget-friendly stays include Arusha Backpackers with its top-floor restaurant and internet cafe, Arusha by Night Annexe near the stadium, and the community-focused Kigongoni Lodge. Other nearby options include Raha Leo, Seuri Guesti in the Makao Mapya neighborhood, and the centrally located Arusha Torch Budget Inn.
• Mid-range selections provide comfort and amenities, such as the Mount Meru Hotel set within a wildlife sanctuary, the modern rooms of The Arusha Hotel, or the historic atmosphere of The Outpost Lodge featuring stone floors and green gardens.
• For a high-end experience, you can choose from boutique options like Onsea House, which serves as a relaxing hideaway, or the chic Bay Leaf Boutique Hotel located within walking distance of local attractions and the clock tower.

Food & drink

You can find a wide variety of dining options in Arusha, ranging from casual street fare to high-end meals. The city features a strong presence of Indian cuisine, which is highly regarded by locals and visitors alike. For traditional Tanzanian roast meat known as Nyama Choma, you can visit local spots in the Njiro neighborhood. If you prefer international flavors, you can choose from a selection of European-style cafes serving pastries and hearty meals, or find dedicated venues for Chinese food, Pakistani BBQ, and French or Belgian cuisine. For those seeking something unique, specific establishments offer dishes focused exclusively on pork served with ugali.

The local drinking scene offers diverse atmospheres depending on your preference:

• Cultural centers provide a more relaxed setting for those seeking to avoid the crowds of local bars.
• Rock-themed bars in the city center offer a lively atmosphere with a mix of European and Indian inspired kitchens.
• Specialized venues offer views of nearby mountains while serving a variety of international cuisines, including Mexican and Asian dishes.
• A variety of popular nightclubs are frequented by both locals and foreigners for late-night entertainment.

What to see and do

Explore the local history and culture by visiting the Arusha Declaration Museum, which honors the 1967 declaration that shaped Tanzania's political course, and the nearby Declaration Monument. You can also visit the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre or the Arusha National Natural History Museum to deepen your understanding of the region.

For a more immersive experience, arrange cultural excursions to nearby villages to learn about the Maasai and Meru tribes, their traditions, and local economies. These visits provide a human element that complements an animal-centric safari in the game parks. If you prefer the outdoors, you can hike around Mt. Meru to see waterfalls or take a camel safari in Longido. For those seeking adventure, climbing Mount Meru is an option, though you should prepare for freezing temperatures with appropriate clothing.

• Experience the local atmosphere by visiting the Century Cinema complex on Njiro Road, which also features various dining options.
• Embark on a safari to see wildlife in the Serengeti or other nearby reserves and parks.

When to go

You can experience a variety of climates in Arusha depending on the time of year. The long masika rains from March through May bring consistent rainfall that supports lush vegetation, while the kiangazi dry season from June through October offers stable conditions with cool, dry air. If you visit during the short vuli rains in November and December, you will find less reliable rainfall as temperatures begin to rise toward the warmer months.

During January and February, you can expect the warmest conditions of the year. While the elevation keeps the atmosphere moderated, these months are characterized by increased humidity and higher temperatures compared to the rest of the year.

Three days in Arusha

Day one, you can begin your stay in the heart of Arusha. You might choose to settle into a nearby lodge or find your way to a local spot like Oasis Lodge or Sekai.

Day two, explore the surroundings and visit the Snake Park. If you prefer to travel further toward Moshi or Karatu, you can arrange transport from the city center.

Day three, take in the sights of the Arusha Region before your departure. You can fly out from either Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Municipal Airport for your next destination.