Saskia Arusha is a common resting place before or after a safari or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. But it’s so much more! It’s a great place to gain an insight into real Tanzanian life beyond the touristic circuit. Moreover, after living here for several years, I’ve discovered a great selection of things to do and places to eat, which I will gladly share with you.
It’s good to know that “Arusha” is both a region and a town. The wider Arusha region also includes towns like Moshi and Usa River.
Set right at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha is a small city where coffee plantations sprawl into the suburbs, where the air is surprisingly cool, and where you can find some of the best food in the country if you know where to look. Whether you have 24 hours to kill before heading to the Serengeti or you want to decompress after a week in the bush, taking a day or two to explore A-town on your own terms is one of the best ways to see a side of Tanzania that most tourists drive right past.
Airports and Getting Around
Something that may be confusing at first is that Arusha has two airports:
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): This is where you’ll likely land if you’re flying from abroad. It’s about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from the city.
- Arusha Airport (ARK): This is a much smaller domestic hub on the western edge of town. You’ll use this for flights on small planes into the national parks or (usually) your flight over to Zanzibar.
An important difference between the two airports is that ARK does not do flights after dark, while JRO does.
For getting around the city, I recommend using a trusted taxi (ideally recommend by someone you know, or your lodge) or a ride-hailing app like Bolt. For a more local experience, you can also use a bajaji, a three-weeled open vehicle also known as a tuk tuk.
Where to Stay
Arusha offers different vibes when it comes to accommodation. You can stay in Arusha town if you want to be close to restaurants and local sights like markets, or you can opt for a more peaceful location in nature, just outside Arusha town or a bit further away, in the surroundings of Usa River or at Dolly Estate. Several lodges are set on beautiful lush coffee plantations.
- The Nature Retreats: If you want to wake up to monkeys in the trees, look at places like Rivertrees Country Inn or Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge.
- The Modern Hubs: For those who prefer sleek design and a pool with a view of Mt. Meru, Gran Meliá is a fantastic choice right in town.
For more options, check out my curated list of top-rated accommodation options in Arusha.
What to Do: Exploring A-town
Some of the best ways to spend a day in Arusha include:
- Coffee Tours: Since the soil here is volcanic, the coffee is world-class. Many small farms offer “bean-to-cup” tours where you can roast your own beans.
- Lake Duluti: A stunning crater lake just outside town. It’s a peaceful spot for canoeing or a shaded forest walk.
- The Cultural Heritage Centre: Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything, the gallery here is incredible and looks like a giant drum and shield from the outside.
For more ideas, check out my Top 15 Things to Do in Arusha.
The Food Scene
While those with a sensitive stomach may be tempted to have their first meal(s) at their hotel, I recommend you venture out eventually. Arusha has a surprisingly diverse food scene ranging from traditional Tanzanian BBQ (nyama choma) to great Indian food, as well as cosmopolitan restaurants. Great for foodies!
I’ve put together a full guide on Where to Eat in Arusha so you can find the best local haunts of various types and cuisines.
Practical Tips for Arusha
- The Weather: Arusha is less warm and humid than the coast because of the altitude. It can get surprisingly chilly at night. Always pack a light jacket or a sweater.
- Safety: Like any city, be mindful of your phone and bag in crowded areas like the Clock Tower or the bus station. It’s best not to show expensive jewelry or watches outside.
- Be wary of individuals approaching you on the street with tour offers. Scams are common. Be polite but firm: a simple “No, asante” (No thank you) should work.
- Language: Learning even five words of Swahili will completely change how people interact with you. Check out my Basic Swahili Phrases post to get started.
- Money and ATMs: Arusha is the last place you’ll find reliable banks before heading into the national parks, so you may want to make some withdrawals. Time this in advance because ATMs tend to run out of cash.
Final Thoughts
Arusha is the literal “Gateway to Safari,” but it deserves a spot on your itinerary in its own right. If you give the city a chance, you’ll find it’s the perfect place to transition into the rhythm of East Africa. It’s a place where you actually get to see Tanzanian daily life, and that context makes the wildlife you see later feel even more special.
Plan Your Arusha Stay Further
Now that you have the big picture, you can dive into the specifics of your time here. Whether you’re a foodie, a mountain hiker, or looking for the perfect bed, I’ve broken down the best of the city in these guides:
- Where to Stay in Arusha: A guide to my favorite spots, from hidden coffee estates to modern city hotels.
- Where to Eat in Arusha: My personal shortlist of the best local BBQ, international cafes, and sunset dinner spots.
- Top Things to Do in Arusha: From canoeing crater lakes to exploring the vibrant Maasai market.
- Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
- Tanzania Visa & Entry Requirements: The essential paperwork you need to handle before you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
