Arusha, often dubbed as the “Safari Capital” of Tanzania, is a bustling city that serves as the gateway to some of Africa’s most renowned national parks and natural wonders. For those considering things to do in Arusha, exploring the Arusha National Park, home to diverse wildlife and the majestic Mount Meru, and visiting the Cultural Heritage Centre, which showcases a vast collection of African art, crafts, and gemstones, are top recommendations.
The city’s vibrant local markets, such as the Maasai Market, offer a colorful array of handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Nearby, the Arusha Declaration Museum provides insights into Tanzania’s journey to independence and its post-colonial history.
Beyond its urban attractions and cultural sites, Arusha is a starting point for safaris to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. For those seeking the best places to visit in Tanzania, Arusha’s blend of urban energy, cultural richness, and proximity to iconic African landscapes makes it a prime destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Arusha, Tanzania
1. Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a gem of Tanzania, covering 552 square kilometers. It is home to Mount Meru, the second highest peak in Tanzania, and features a diverse range of wildlife including giraffes, zebras, and monkeys.
Location: Situated just 25 km northeast of Arusha city, accessible by car or guided tours.
Scenic Spot: Home to Mount Meru, Momela Lakes, and diverse wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and colobus monkeys.
Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) for clear views and excellent wildlife spotting.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for nature lovers and families; however, long hikes may be difficult for young children and the elderly.
Price: Entrance fee is approximately $45 per person for non-residents.
Travel Tip: Make sure to hire a guide for your trek up Mount Meru, as it is mandatory and they can help you spot and identify the local wildlife.
2. Mount Meru
Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth highest in Africa. It is located within Arusha National Park and offers stunning views of its famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Location: Inside Arusha National Park, accessible via guided hiking tours.
Scenic Spot: Offers breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro and lush forests with wildlife sightings.
Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) for better climbing conditions.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for experienced hikers; not suitable for young children or individuals with mobility issues.
Price: Park fees range from $45 to $60, plus mandatory guide fees.
Travel Tip: The best time to climb Mount Meru is during the dry season, from June to October.
3. Ngurdoto Crater
The Ngurdoto Crater is often referred to as the ‘Little Ngorongoro’, and is located in Arusha National Park. The crater is surrounded by forest and is home to a variety of wildlife including buffaloes, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Location: Inside Arusha National Park, about 32 km from Arusha city, accessible by car.
Scenic Spot: Often called “Little Ngorongoro,” the crater features lush greenery and wildlife such as buffaloes and monkeys.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for the best views and dry hiking conditions.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though some hiking is required. Not wheelchair-friendly.
Price: Included in the Arusha National Park entrance fee ($45 per person).
Travel Tip: The crater is not accessible by vehicle, so be prepared for a bit of a hike.
4. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
The Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is a place where you can learn about the culture and history of Tanzania. It features a variety of art and crafts from local artists, as well as historical artifacts.
Location: Located in central Arusha, easily accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Features stunning African art, crafts, and gemstone displays, including Tanzanite.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year, but mornings are less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for all visitors interested in culture, art, and history.
Price: Free to enter, but purchases and guided tours may cost extra.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget to check out the Maasai Market for some unique souvenirs.
5. Meserani Snake Park
The Meserani Snake Park is a must-visit for reptile enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of snake species, as well as crocodiles and other reptiles.
Location: About 25 km west of Arusha, along the road to Dodoma, accessible by car.
Scenic Spot: Home to a variety of snake species, crocodiles, and a Maasai cultural museum.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year, but mornings offer the best chances for cooler temperatures and active animals.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for kids interested in wildlife; however, caution is needed around reptiles.
Price: Entrance fee is approximately $10 per person.
Travel Tip: The park also offers camel rides and a Maasai cultural museum.
6. Lake Duluti
Lake Duluti is a beautiful crater lake located just outside of Arusha. It is a great spot for bird watching, canoeing, and hiking.
Location: Just 14 km east of Arusha, accessible by car, bicycle, or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: A beautiful crater lake with canoeing, bird watching, and hiking opportunities.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry trails and better bird-watching experiences.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families and nature lovers, though some hiking paths may be steep.
Price: Entrance fees and activities range from $5 to $20 depending on guided tours.
Travel Tip: Make sure to bring your binoculars for bird watching.
7. Tanzanite Experience
The Tanzanite Experience is a museum and shop dedicated to the rare and beautiful Tanzanite gemstone, which is only found in Tanzania.
Location: Centrally located in Arusha, easily reachable by foot or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Museum and store dedicated to the rare Tanzanite gemstone, exclusive to Tanzania.
Best Time to Visit: Open year-round; best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, especially those interested in gems and jewelry.
Price: Free entry, but Tanzanite purchases vary in price.
Travel Tip: This is a great place to buy a unique souvenir from your trip.
8. Olduvai Gorge
Olduvai Gorge is one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. It is where some of the oldest human remains and stone tools have been found.
Location: Approximately 180 km west of Arusha, along the road to the Serengeti. Best reached via guided tour or private vehicle.
Scenic Spot: One of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites, with ancient human fossils and stone tools.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry weather and easier travel conditions.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in archaeology and history. Not recommended for very young children.
Price: Entrance fee is around $35 per person.
Travel Tip: There is a museum on site that provides a lot of interesting information about the history of human evolution.
9. Shanga Shangaa
Shanga Shangaa is a social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to create beautiful crafts from recycled materials.
Location: Located in Arusha, easily accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to create beautiful handmade crafts from recycled materials.
Best Time to Visit: Open year-round; visiting in the morning allows for a guided tour of the workshop.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for all visitors interested in sustainable crafts and social projects.
Price: Free to enter, but donations and purchases support the initiative.
Travel Tip: Make sure to take a tour of the workshop to see the artisans at work.
10. Arusha Declaration Monument
The Arusha Declaration Monument is an important historical site in Tanzania. It is where the Arusha Declaration, a statement of African socialism, was made by the Tanzanian government in 1967.
Location: Located in the city center, easily reachable by foot or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A significant historical site commemorating Tanzania’s 1967 declaration of African socialism.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year; best visited in the morning when it’s less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for all ages interested in history and politics.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The monument is located in the center of Arusha, so it is easy to visit while exploring the city.
Plan Your Perfect Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Arusha, Tanzania: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Arusha: 7/10 – Arusha offers several family-friendly activities, such as visiting the Arusha National Park, which provides opportunities for game drives and nature walks. Cultural Heritage Centre and Meserani Snake Park are also engaging for children. However, the range of kid-specific attractions is somewhat limited compared to larger cities.
Nightlife in Arusha: 6/10 – Nightlife in Arusha is moderate, with a selection of bars, pubs, and restaurants offering evening entertainment. Popular spots include the Via Via Cultural Cafe and local nightclubs. While it is not as vibrant as in major cities, the nightlife is enjoyable and has a local flavor.
Sport in Arusha: 8/10 – Arusha is a gateway to numerous outdoor activities, including safaris, hiking on Mount Meru, and trips to nearby national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The city also has facilities for football, tennis, and other sports, catering to both locals and tourists.
Culture and Attractions in Arusha: 8/10 – Arusha is rich in cultural attractions, including the Arusha Declaration Museum, local Maasai markets, and cultural tours that offer insights into the traditions of the local tribes. The city’s proximity to significant wildlife parks adds to its cultural and natural appeal.
Gastronomy in Arusha: 7/10 – The food scene in Arusha features a mix of traditional Tanzanian cuisine and international options. Local dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat) and ugali (maize porridge) are popular. The city offers a variety of dining options, from street food stalls to more upscale restaurants.
Shopping in Arusha: 6/10 – Shopping in Arusha includes local markets, such as the Maasai Market and Central Market, where visitors can buy crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. While there are some modern shops and boutiques, the shopping experience is mainly centered around local products and handicrafts.
Prices in Arusha: 7/10 – Arusha is relatively affordable, with reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and activities. The city provides good value for travelers, making it accessible for both budget and mid-range travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: 45-85 $
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 4-7 $
Price of a beer: 1.5-2.5 $
Price of a coffee: 1.5-2.5 $
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Arusha, Tanzania
For those looking to explore beyond Arusha’s bustling streets, top day trips near Arusha reveal the wonders of Tanzania’s northern circuit. The majestic Kilimanjaro looms nearby, while the serene beauty of Arusha National Park and the cultural richness of Maasai villages offer a glimpse into the area’s diverse landscapes and traditions.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Arusha accommodations include eco-friendly lodges amidst coffee plantations, luxurious safari camps, and comfortable hotels, ensuring that every explorer finds a cozy base for their Tanzanian adventure.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arusha
https://www.getyourguide.com/arusha-l505
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
