Arusha, Tanzania Travel Guide

Discover Arusha, Tanzania's thriving hub for safari adventures, cultural encounters, and natural beauty, nestled at the base of Mount Meru.

Arusha, nestled at the foothills of Mount Meru, is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to Tanzania's most stunning natural attractions. Known for its cool climate and lush surroundings, Arusha is the perfect starting point for safaris to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and other famous wildlife reserves. The city itself is bustling with life, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional African culture. As you stroll through the streets of Arusha, you'll encounter a blend of colorful local markets, charming cafes, and artisan shops. The Central Market is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs. For history enthusiasts, the Arusha Declaration Museum provides insight into Tanzania's rich past and the pivotal moments in its journey to independence. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore within the city and its surroundings. The Arusha National Park, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, offers opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and game drives. For a more relaxed experience, the Meserani Snake Park provides a fascinating look at some of the region's most intriguing reptiles. Whether you're an adventurer at heart or looking to soak in the serene beauty, Arusha promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arusha.

Visit the Central Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and most vibrant atmosphere.
Book your safari tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Carry light layers of clothing, as Arusha's climate can vary from warm days to cooler evenings.
Learn a few Swahili phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your experience.
Hire a local guide for a more insightful and personalized exploration of the city's attractions.

Explore Arusha: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Arusha

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Cultural Heritage Centre

Explore the Cultural Heritage Centre in Arusha for an unforgettable experience of Tanzanian art, culture, and cuisine in one vibrant location.

4.5

Meserani Snake Park

Explore Meserani Snake Park in Duka Bovu: A thrilling blend of wildlife and cultural history awaits you in Tanzania's premier reptile sanctuary.

4.2

Arusha National Park

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Arusha National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Tanzania.

4.4

Kilimanjaro Golf and Wildlife

Explore the breathtaking Kilimanjaro Golf and Wildlife in Maweni, where stunning landscapes meet an exceptional golfing experience amidst nature.

4.6

Best landmarks in Arusha

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Cultural Heritage Centre

Uncover the Artistic and Cultural Treasures of Tanzania at Arusha's Premier Heritage Centre

4.5

Uzunguni City Park

Discover the flavors of Tanzania at Uzunguni City Park, where delicious breakfasts meet a serene dining atmosphere in the heart of Arusha.

4.1

Arusha National Park

Discover Arusha National Park: A breathtaking blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures in Tanzania.

4.4

Picnic Bar

Discover the flavors of Tanzania at Picnic Bar, Arusha's grill haven offering delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Best restaurants in Arusha

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Uzunguni City Park

Experience delightful breakfasts and local flavors at Uzunguni City Park, a must-visit restaurant in Arusha's vibrant culinary scene.

4.1

Andrew's

Experience authentic Tanzanian cuisine at Andrew's Restaurant in Arusha - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

George's Tavern

Experience the vibrant flavors of Tanzania at George's Tavern in Arusha - where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.

4.5

Khan's Barbeque

Experience authentic Tanzanian barbecue at Khan's Barbeque in Arusha – where flavor meets affordability in a lively setting.

4.4

Best bars in Arusha

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The Don's Lounge

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Don's Lounge in Arusha, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment await.

4.3

Picnic Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere of Picnic Bar, Arusha's beloved grill restaurant, perfect for locals and tourists alike.

4.2

Kipong Bar and lounge

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kipong Bar and Lounge in Arusha, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment in a cozy setting.

4.2

Pin Point

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Pin Point in Arusha, where local culture meets a lively bar atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.

3.7

Best nightclubs in Arusha

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Cocoriko Club & Lounge

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Arusha at Cocoriko Club & Lounge, where great music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable memories await.

4.1

Club D World Garden

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Arusha at Club D World Garden, where great music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.

4.1

Cocoriko Annex Triple A Nightclub

Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Arusha at Cocoriko Annex Triple A Nightclub, where music and dance create unforgettable experiences.

4.0

Babylon Bar And Night Club

Dive into the heart of Arusha's nightlife at Babylon Bar and Night Club, where great music and vibrant energy await.

4.1

Best shops in Arusha

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AIM Mall

Explore AIM Mall in Arusha: A premier shopping destination with diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.

4.3

Kajo art gallery

Explore Kajo Art Gallery in Arusha for a vibrant collection of local paintings and a deep dive into Tanzanian culture and creativity.

4.1

Sable Square Shopping Village

Explore Sable Square Shopping Village in Arusha - a lively hub of shopping, dining, and culture in Tanzania.

4.2

Shanga Gift & Workshop

Explore Shanga Gift & Workshop in Arusha for unique, handcrafted treasures that embody Tanzanian culture and support local artisans.

4.6

Explore Arusha on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Arusha, mapped for you.

Arusha Essentials

Arusha is located in the northern part of Tanzania, near the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. The nearest international airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer to Arusha, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, Arusha Airport (ARK) serves domestic flights and is located just 8 kilometers from the city center. There are also bus services from major cities like Dar es Salaam and Nairobi.
Arusha is a relatively compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer journeys, local taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available. Public minibuses, known as 'daladalas,' are a common and inexpensive way to get around, although they can be crowded. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are another quick and affordable option but come with higher safety risks.
The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Arusha, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at banks and authorized exchange bureaus.
Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it is important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. Some neighborhoods, such as Unga Limited and Kijenge, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always use reputable taxi services and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities, including Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre and Mount Meru Regional Hospital, are available in the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful when using daladalas. Don’t argue with the driver or conductor. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Using the Swahili greeting 'Jambo' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Ugali and Nyama Choma. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled or filtered water.
To experience Arusha like a local, visit the Maasai Market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture. Don't miss the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, which offers a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Tanzania. For a unique experience, take a day trip to the nearby coffee plantations or hike the trails of Mount Meru.

When is the best time to visit Arusha?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Arusha

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Arusha. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloShikamoo
  [shee-kah-moh]
- GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
- YesNdio
  [nn-dee-oh]
- NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
- Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [ta-fah-dah-lee]
- Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
- Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
- How are you?U hali gani?
  [oo hah-lee gah-nee]
- Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh]
- Do you speak English?Unasema Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-seh-mah keen-geh-reh-zah]
- I don't understandSiwelewi
  [see-weh-leh-wee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-oh-nah men-yoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
- I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [see-lee nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Mambo!
  [mahm-boh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]
- Help!Usaidizi!
  [oo-sah-ee-dee-zee]
- Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
- Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
  [pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
  [pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree]
- I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
- I'm illMimi ni mgonjwa
  [mee-mee nee m-gohn-jwah]
- I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
- I'm just lookingNinaangalia tu
  [nee-nah-ahn-gah-lee-ah too]
- How much is it?Bei ni kiasi gani?
  [bay nee kee-ah-see gah-nee]
- That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
  [hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
- Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah bay]
- What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
- It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
- Half past (10)Saa tano na nusu
  [sah-ah tah-noh nah noo-soo]
- MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
- AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
- EveningJioni
  [joh-ee-oh-nee]
- YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
- TodayLeo
  [lay-oh]
- TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
- 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
- 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
- 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
- 4Nne
  [n-nay]
- 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
- 6Sita
  [see-tah]
- 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
- 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
- 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
- 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]
- Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
- What's the address?Anwani ni gani?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee gah-nee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
- When's the next (bus)?Basi liko lini?
  [bah-see lee-koh lee-nee]
- A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ....)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah)]

History of Arusha

Arusha was founded by German colonialists in the early 20th century. Originally established as a minor military garrison, it quickly grew into a trading hub due to its strategic location between the coast and the interior of East Africa. The town was named after the Wa-Arusha people who inhabited the region.
During German and later British colonial rule, Arusha saw significant infrastructural development. Railroads and roads were constructed to facilitate the movement of goods and people. The colonial architecture from this era, including administrative buildings and residences, still stands today as a testament to this period.
On January 26, 1967, Arusha became the focal point of Tanzanian history when President Julius Nyerere announced the Arusha Declaration. This declaration laid down the principles of Ujamaa (African socialism), focusing on collective farming and nationalization of key industries. It marked a significant shift in Tanzania's socio-economic policies.
In the late 20th century, Arusha gained international prominence when it became the seat of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) in 1994. This tribunal was established to prosecute those responsible for the Rwandan Genocide. The presence of the ICTR brought global attention and a multicultural influx to the city.
Arusha is a melting pot of cultures, featuring a blend of indigenous groups such as the Wa-Arusha, Meru, and Maasai, alongside immigrant communities from India, the Middle East, and Europe. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's vibrant markets, cuisine, and festivals, making it a unique destination for cultural exploration.
Situated near major attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha has evolved into a gateway for tourists. Safari companies, luxury lodges, and tour operators have flourished, making tourism one of the city's primary economic drivers. The annual Kilimanjaro Marathon and cultural festivals further highlight its role as a tourist hub.
Today, Arusha is a bustling urban center that balances its historical legacy with modern growth. It hosts numerous international conferences and serves as a regional center for NGOs and diplomatic missions. Its educational institutions and healthcare facilities attract people from all over the region, contributing to its ongoing development.