Saskia Are you looking for the best hotels in Arusha? Many travelers wonder where to stay in Arusha and what Arusha accommodation actually suits them best, when they visit before or after their safari. Having lived here for several years, I can confidently say that Arusha and its surroundings actually offer plenty to enjoy for a somewhat longer stay – not least because of its gorgeous hotels and lodges.
You may also want to read my other posts on the best things to do and the top places to eat in Arusha. If you’re looking for more general information on Arusha, have a look at my practical travel guide about this town.
However long you stay in Arusha, it’s worth carefully picking your accommodation. You can choose to stay in the center of the bustling town or in a more natural setting in the wider surroundings. The good news is there are really nice options either way! In this post I have listed top-rated hotels and lodges.
Where to Stay in Arusha: Best Hotels & Coffee Plantation Lodges
Many people wonder about the best Arusha accommodation location — near the airport (the international airport or the national one?), or in Arusha town, or somewhere in between. You can also choose to stay by Moshi or Usa River.
If you’re planning to go on safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, or Manyara, I would always recommend to stay either in Arusha town itself or on the western side of it. This is because the famous safari parks are located several hours’ driving to the west of Arusha. Therefore, you can end up driving up to two hours more if you stay in Moshi! That’s far from ideal, especially considering how early you have to get up already to start your safari. Have a look at the map below to understand what I mean.
Serengeti and the other safari parks are located to the west (left) of Arusha.
If you’re only planning to visit Arusha National Park, Usa River is the nearest town. But I would still recommend staying in Arusha or surroundings simply because there is more going on in terms of restaurants and things to do. If you’re coming to this region only to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and just need a bed for a night, you could choose to stay near Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Finally, if you’re trying to decide whether to stay in Arusha or its (western) surroundings, consider the following. If you’re looking for a location where you can walk to local sights, restaurants, or shops, the city center is your best bet. The same is true if you’re not so comfortable being surrounded by nature (including insects, small lizards, and probably monkeys!). But if you want to wake up to the sound of tropical birds, with green all around, and if you’re lucky the smell of roasting coffee, you’ll want to head to the outskirts or wider surroundings of Arusha.
To help you decide at a glance, here is a quick breakdown of Arusha’s four main areas and what to expect from each.
| Location | Best For… | The Vibe | Pro Tip |
| City Center | Markets, restaurants, nightlife, and quick transit | Bustling, maybe a little noisy. | Best for those who want to walk to local sights and be near everything. |
| Outskirts | The best of both worlds | Tropical gardens & coffee scents | Perfect balance of nature and nearby city convenience. |
| Wider Surroundings | Peace, nature, and luxury retreats | Secluded, lush, and very quiet | Requires a 30-60 min drive at least (from the center of Arusha), but worth it for the views and relaxation. |
| Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (JRO) | Late arrivals or early departures | Practical and stress-free | Best if you just need a bed before/after a long flight. |
Best Hotels in Arusha Town Center
Gran Meliá Arusha
This is without a doubt the most cosmopolitan and city like option in Arusha town. With its high building right in the center, Gran Meliá is a five-star icon in Arusha. Featuring five restaurants with international as well as Tanzanian cuisine, a rooftop terrace, and fairytale gardens with the biggest pool in town and an exclusive fitness center. If you’re looking for world class luxury, this is your spot.
Four Points By Sheraton Arusha
Another tried and trusted international chain, the Four Points Arusha does not disappoint. Located right in the center, this hotel is smaller and cosier than Gran Meliá. Meanwhile it does offer all the modern comforts you can expect, including a pool in lush gardens, a restaurant, bar, fitness facilities, meetings rooms and so on. Four stars.
Mount Meru Hotel
The third of Arusha’s traditional high rise city center hotels, Mount Meru has a decidedly more African vibe. Its size is comparable to Gran Meliá, and it has all the usual facilities. My favorite thing here: the African food buffet.
Coffee Lodges & Lodging in Arusha’s Outskirts
For a more nature-y vibe but still a central location (best of both worlds!), the following coffee lodges are ideal.
Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha Coffee Lodge is a local classic I couldn’t leave out of this list. As usual with the Elewana chain, this lodge offers a high level of comfort and luxury. The food is also excellent, and the vibe very typical: think old colonial, with a lot of dark wood. The setting in extensive gardens nicely balances this. Unique selling point is their location: on the western outskirts of Arusha, the Coffee Lodge is perfectly located near the conveniences of town and in the right direction for your safari.
Moivaro Coffee Plantation Lodge
Located in a natural area on the eastern outskirts of Arusha center, Moivaro offers a peaceful haven with its gorgeous gardens.
Luxury Lodges in Arusha’s Wider Surroundings
These three lodges are all incredibly gorgeous and really worth spending several nights in. Or if you happen to be staying in Arusha town for longer, you could go here on a day trip, something I have often done.
Rivertrees Country Inn
Located on an old coffee estate in Usa River, just outside Arusha National Park.
- The Vibe: A serene riverside sanctuary.
- Why it’s a top pick: It is the perfect soft landing after a long flight or dusty safari. You sleep in private cottages spread across lush gardens where monkeys play in the trees. Rivertrees also hosts popular monthly crafts markets (described in more detail in the Events section).
Kili Seasons Hotel
- The Vibe: Sleek, contemporary, and tranquil in a spacious natural setting. It feels like a high-end boutique resort tucked away from the city’s hustle.
- The Experience: Located on Dolly Estate (famed for its golf course), this hotel features a stunning pool and views of Mount Meru.
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
- The Vibe: Old-world charm meets lush tropical jungle. This lodge is adapted from an early 20th-century colonial farmhouse.
- The Experience: Staying here feels like stepping back in time. The grounds are a 50-acre private forest reserve filled with Colobus monkeys, a trout-filled lake, and ancient trees. You can go horseback riding through the forest, paddle a boat on the lake, or simply enjoy a sundowner on the grand colonial veranda.
Hotels Near Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
If you want to stay close to Arusha’s international airport (JRO), maybe because you’re climbing Mount Kilimanjaro the day after you arrive, a good option is:
Airport Planet Lodge
Only 9 minutes from the airport, Airport Planet Lodge even offers its own airport shuttles. It also has other nice amenities, such as a restaurant, a pool, a spa with massages, and a green setting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arusha Accommodation
Where should I stay in Arusha if I’m going on safari?
Stay on the western side of Arusha. The major safari parks — Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara — are all several hours west of Arusha, so staying in Moshi instead can add up to two extra hours of driving on an already early safari morning.
Should I stay in Arusha’s city center or the surroundings?
Choose the city center if you want to walk to shops, restaurants, and local sights, or if you’d rather not be surrounded by nature (including lizards, insects, and monkeys). Choose the outskirts or wider surroundings if you want quiet, tropical gardens, birdsong.
Is it worth spending an extra night in Arusha rather than heading straight to safari?
Yes! Many travelers use Arusha as a place to catch their breath before or after the safari trail, and several lodges in the wider surroundings (like Ngare Sero or Rivertrees) are worth a day trip even if you’re already staying elsewhere. I would even suggest staying in Arusha several more nights, enjoying some of the activities on offer here.
Where to spend the day when my flight leaves at night?
Do you have to check out in the morning but wait all day — with your luggage — before your flight leaves at night? There are several options. A really nice way to spend the day is visiting one of Arusha’s beautiful lodges like Ngare Sero or Rivertrees. Alternatively, some hotels offer day rooms, for example Kili Seasons or Arusha Coffee Lodge.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Safari Home
Choosing your Arusha accommodation is about more than just a bed; it’s about how you want to begin your safari adventure. Whether you want to hear the morning calls to prayer and the hum of town from a traditional hotel or wake up to the rustle of monkeys in a coffee estate, there is a perfect base for every traveler. Taking an extra night in Arusha is a great way to catch your breath before the dust and excitement of the safari trail begin.
Plan your Arusha journey further:
- The Ultimate Arusha Travel Guide: My practical guide for navigating the two-airport puzzle, safety tips, and the best ways to get around town.
- What to Do in Arusha: Explore crater lakes, coffee tours, and local markets.
- Where to Eat in Arusha: My personal favorites for Tanzanian BBQ and sunset views.
- Tanzania Visa & Entry Requirements: Handle your paperwork and Zanzibar insurance before you land.
- Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements: Make sure you understand them before embarking on your journey.
- What to Pack for Tanzania: Ensure you have the right gear for the Arusha chill and the safari heat.
