Things to Do in Arusha
Arusha is the starting point for safaris in northern Tanzania, and also a great base for day trips of its own. With Mount Meru above the city and Kilimanjaro within reach, there is plenty to see before or after a safari: national parks, crater lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, coffee farms and markets.
Arusha is the starting point for safaris in northern Tanzania, and also a great base for day trips of its own. With Mount Meru above the city and Kilimanjaro within reach, there is plenty to see before or after a safari: national parks, crater lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, coffee farms and markets.
Here are the best things to do in and around Arusha, with travel times, and how to fit them into a short stay.
Day trips near Arusha
Arusha National Park
Giraffes, colobus monkeys, flamingos and views of Mount Meru, 45 minutes from town. A walking safari and canoeing are possible. See our Arusha National Park page.
Lake Duluti
A peaceful crater lake with forest walks and canoeing, 20 minutes from the centre.
Materuni Waterfalls and coffee tour
A hike to an 80 metre waterfall and a visit to a Chagga coffee farm near Moshi.
Chemka hot springs
A turquoise warm-water pool for swimming, about two hours away.
Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater
Both can be visited on a long day trip or on a two-day safari.
In the city
Arusha has a lively central market, a clock tower that marks the middle of the continent, the Cultural Heritage Centre with its large collection of Tanzanian art and a museum in the old German boma. Good coffee shops and restaurants serve local and international food. Tanzanite jewellery is sold in many shops, so check quality and certificates before you buy.
Culture and people
Visits to Maasai communities, Chagga villages and the Hadzabe people at Lake Eyasi give you a view of Tanzanian life beyond the parks. We arrange visits with respect, and pay fair fees to the community. See our guides on culture and cultural safaris.
Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro
Both mountains are close to Arusha. Mount Meru treks last four days and start near the city, while Kilimanjaro climbs begin near Moshi, an hour away. Even on a short stay, a day of hiking on the lower slopes is rewarding.
How many days do you need?
One day is enough for a day trip, and two or three days allows a mix of nature, culture and rest. Many travellers spend an extra day in Arusha at the end of their trip, to relax before flying home.
Food and coffee in Arusha
Arusha has a good food scene, from local places serving nyama choma, ugali and pilau to restaurants with international menus. Tanzanian coffee grown on the slopes of Kilimanjaro and Meru is excellent, and there are coffee shops and farm tours. Try a fresh juice at the market and a cup of chai in the afternoon.
Shopping and souvenirs
The Maasai market and the Cultural Heritage Centre sell crafts, fabrics, wood carvings, paintings and jewellery. Bargaining is normal. Buy tanzanite only from reputable shops with certificates, and be cautious about offers from strangers in the street. Our team can recommend trusted shops.
Staying in Arusha
Arusha has hotels and lodges for every budget, many in leafy gardens with views of Mount Meru. For a quiet stay choose a lodge outside the centre, in Njiro or Usa River, and for convenience stay in the city. We can book your nights before and after your safari or climb.
Short safaris and day trips from Arusha
- 2 Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Joining Safari (2 Days, from USD 500 per person) Two days from Arusha for travellers with limited time: a full day in Tarangire, one lodge night, then Ngorongoro Crater before the evening drop-off in town.
- Ngorongoro Day Trip Joining Safari (1 Days, from USD 250 per person) A one day joining safari from Arusha into Ngorongoro Crater. Shared 4x4, professional English-speaking guide, picnic lunch, and evening drop off in town, no ove
- 1 Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 500 per person) A private one-day safari from Arusha into the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater with a full day game drive and picnic lunch.
- 1 Day Tarangire National Park Short Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 350 per person) A private one-day Tarangire safari from Arusha: elephant herds, ancient baobabs and a picnic lunch inside the park.
- 1 Day Tarangire National Park Joining Safari from Arusha (1 Day, from USD 250 per person) A budget-friendly shared day safari to Tarangire National Park from Arusha: elephants, baobabs and a picnic lunch.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best thing to do in Arusha?
A day in Arusha National Park or at Lake Duluti is the easiest, and Materuni Waterfalls with a coffee tour is the most memorable.
Is Arusha safe for tourists?
Yes, with normal precautions. Use registered taxis or a driver, and keep valuables out of sight. See our Tanzania safety guide.
How many days should I spend in Arusha?
One or two days before or after a safari is enough for most visitors.
Are there waterfalls in Arusha?
Yes. Materuni is the best known, near Moshi, and there are smaller falls in Arusha National Park and on Mount Meru.
What is the best time to visit Arusha?
June to October and January to February are the driest and clearest months, though Arusha is pleasant all year because of its altitude.