Arusha, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Tanzania Safari,” is one of the top vibrant cities in Tanzania. This city may be the second vibrant city after Dar es Salam. Arusha is situated at the foot of Mount Meru and serves as a hub for tourists want to go wildlife Safari.
If you go Safari in Tanzania, then this is the must city you will step on for the first time. The city accommodates the famous Airport for Safari called Arusha Airport. Arusha has much more to offer beyond its wildlife tours. From this guide we have prepared the top best things to do in Arusha City.
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Explore Arusha National Park
If you don’t have enough time for safari or looking for an easily accessible yet best safari experience, Arusha National Park is a must-visit. Located just a short drive from Arusha city, this park offers a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and even leopards.
You can do game drive safari, walking safari, or even a canoeing adventure on the Momella Lakes. The park also serves as the starting point for those looking to climb Mount Meru, where you can combine your trip with Mount Meru.
Hike The Mount Meru
Mount Meru acts as a symbol of Arusha city, anywhere you stay in the city it is easy to spot this mountain. If you visit Arusha, climbing Mount Meru is an incredible experience. Mount Meru, known as the fifth-highest mountain in Africa, provides stunning city views and diverse ecosystems. The ascent to Mount Meru typically takes three to four days, and it may be a great alternative for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Visit The Momella Lakes
Located within Arusha National Park, the Momella Lakes are a series of seven alkaline lakes famous for their stunning views and rich birdlife experience. One of the best places to watch bidlife in Tanzania. If you love Birds, you will be delighted to spot flamingos, pelicans, and other migratory birds. The tranquil setting of Momella Lakes also makes it a great place for canoeing or enjoying a picnic while surrounded by nature, so get prepared for canoeing too.
Discover Meserani Snake Park
For those interested in reptiles, the Meserani Snake Park is a fascinating stop you must visit. This conservation center is home to a variety of snake types, including pythons, cobras, and vipers. As a visitor, you can learn more about these incredible creatures and even touch or handle some of them under the guidance of the local experts.
Visit Arusha Declaration Museum
If you are a History lover, you should not miss the Arusha Declaration Museum. This Museum highlights Tanzania’s journey to independence and socialism under the first president of Tanzania Mwalim Julius Nyerere.
The museum also showcases important documents, photographs, and some artifacts related to Tanzania’s political history. With the help of a local guide in a Museum, you will get a deep insight into the country’s past and its development over the years.
Visit the Cultural Heritage Centre
Visiting this centre is one of the best things you can do in Arusha city, the Cultural Heritage Centre is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs as gifts for your friends and family. Also, remember that, this is not only a shopping destination but also serves as a cultural hub that features African art, sculptures, and jewelry. Whether you’re looking for handwoven fabrics, Tanzanite gemstones, or intricate wood carvings, the Cultural Heritage Centre has something for everyone.
Visit The Natural History Museum
As its name suggests, the Natural History Museum in Arusha is an excellent place to learn about the Tanzania’s rich archaeological, paleontological, and cultural history.
It is housed in an old German boma which make it also known as Old Boma Museum, the museum showcases fossils, historical artifacts, and exhibits about human evolution, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts in Arusha.
Discover The Tanzanite Experience
Arusha is also known as the world’s gateway to Tanzanite, a rare gemstone found only in Tanzania. This gemstone is mined at only one location in Tanzania called Simanjiro District of Manyara Region.To get this experience, make sure to visit The Tanzanite Experience, this company offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the Tanzanite discovery history, mining process, and even purchase certified Tanzanite jewelry.
Explore the Lively Kisongo Market
To get a real taste of local life, we recommend you head to the Kisongo Market. This famous bustling market is full of vibrant colors, fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and many many traditional Maasai items. You know, there is no place in Arusha you can go without spotting Maasai, the same in Kisongo Market. Visiting this market will make you experience the local culture, interact with vendors, and pick up unique souvenirs which you may not get in tourist areas.
Hike to the Mount Meru Waterfall
Also known as Napuru Waterfall, taking a hike to Mount Meru Waterfall is one of the best things you should do when visiting Arusha. This hidden gem offers a scenic trail through lush forests leading to a stunning waterfall, perfect for travelers who love nature and photographers looking for breathtaking landscapes.
Make sure you come with your camera for your memory and sandals because you will jump multiple small river streams. Also remember that it will cost you 10000 TZS or 15000 TZS for the entrance fee, which is equivalent to 5 USD.
Climb Mount Longido
Located about an hour from Arusha close to the border with Kenya, Mount Longido offers a unique hiking experience. The climb takes you through dense woodlands, open plains, and up to a spectacular viewpoint with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the distant Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Longido takes just one day to complete, but we recommend you take at least one night to experience nature.
Take an Arusha City Tour
There is no point to visit Arusha without having a city tour. Experience the vibrant streets, local markets, and historic sites with a guided Arusha City Tour. This tour gives insight into the city’s history, culture, and daily life, making it a great introduction for first-time visitors who are waiting to go for Safari on next days.
Visit Ngaramtoni Market
Ngaramtoni Market is one of the famous markets in Arusha. This is the bustling local market where you can immerse yourself in the everyday life of Arusha’s residents. It’s an excellent spot to shop for fresh produce, spices, and traditional Maasai crafts while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Here you will witness different auctions like auctions for sheeps and goats.
Taste Arusha’s Local Cuisines
Eating out is one of the best ways to explore more about the local life of any community. Arusha offers a variety of local Tanzanian dishes with a lot of history behind that visitors should try. From nyama choma (grilled meat) and ugali to Zanzibar-style biryani, exploring Arusha’s food scene is a delightful experience for food lovers. Remember that, the favourite food of Arusha residents is Nyama choma, so expect to find them in many local restaurants.
Tour a Coffee Plantation
Arusha and Moshi are two locations in Tanzania known for their high-quality coffee, and therefore visiting a coffee plantation in Arusha is a must. Learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. During this tour, you will enjoy a freshly brewed cup while soaking in the scenic views of lush coffee farms.
Ride a Bike through Arusha’s Landscapes
Cycling through Arusha countryside offers a unique perspective of the region’s landscapes, villages, and wildlife. This is one of the best things you can do in Arusha after or before going to Safari. There are various guided biking tours you can join or renting your own bike and exploring the villages by yourself.
