Arusha – The Safari Capital of Northern Tanzania

Resting at the foot of Mount Meru, the sprawling city of Arusha is often called the “Safari Capital” of Northern Tanzania. This vibrant hub serves as the perfect gateway to Tanzania’s iconic Northern Safari Circuit, offering easy access to some of the most famous wildlife destinations on the continent — including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.

Blessed with a temperate climate, lush surroundings, and majestic mountain views, Arusha is more than a transit city — it’s a destination in its own right, offering cultural charm, adventure, and a taste of authentic Tanzanian life.

Location – Northern Tanzania

Arusha lies in northeastern Tanzania, approximately 90 kilometres (1.5 hours) southwest of Kilimanjaro International Airport and about 80 kilometres west of Moshi.
Perched at an elevation of 1,400 metres above sea level, the city enjoys cool, spring-like weather year-round and sits between Mount Kilimanjaro to the east and Ngorongoro Highlands to the west.

Its prime location makes it the starting point for most safaris across northern Tanzania and a convenient stopover for travellers en route to Mount Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar.

Unique Features

• Gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit:  Arusha is the launching point for trips to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara National Parks, making it the safari capital of East Africa.

• Proximity to Two Great Mountains: The city sits beneath Mount Meru — Africa’s fifth-highest peak — and within sight of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest.

• Arusha National Park: Just 30 minutes from the city, this underrated park features lush forests, alpine meadows, volcanic craters, and abundant wildlife, including giraffes, colobus monkeys, and flamingos.

• Cultural Melting Pot: Home to Maasai, Meru, and other Tanzanian communities, Arusha offers rich cultural experiences, bustling markets, and friendly hospitality.

Activities in the Area

Arusha offers something for every traveller — from wildlife adventures to cultural immersion and mountain trekking:

• Game Drives & Safaris: Use Arusha as your base to explore Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara — all within a few hours’ drive.

• Arusha National Park: Take a day trip to this beautiful park for walking safaris, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and wildlife spotting beneath the slopes of Mount Meru.

• Climb Mount Meru: Trek to the summit of Mount Meru (4,566 m), Africa’s fifth-highest mountain, for panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valley.

• Cultural Tours: Visit Maasai villages, craft markets, and local farms to learn about Tanzanian traditions and crafts.

• Coffee Tours: Explore the coffee plantations surrounding Arusha, where you can follow the process from bean to cup and sample Tanzania’s finest brews.

• City Exploration: Stroll through Arusha Central Market, visit the Cultural Heritage Centre, or relax in one of the city’s cafés overlooking Mount Meru.

• Day Trips: Enjoy excursions to Kilimanjaro National Park, Materuni Waterfalls, or nearby hot springs for a refreshing escape.

Travel Information

How to Get There

• By Air:
  Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main gateway, located about 45 km (1 hour) from Arusha.
  Alternatively, Arusha Airport (ARK) handles domestic flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Serengeti.

• By Road:
  Arusha is well connected by highway to Moshi (80 km), Kilimanjaro, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro. Shuttle services also operate to Nairobi, Kenya (approximately 5–6 hours).

Travel Distances

• Kilimanjaro International Airport → Arusha: ~1 hour (45 km)

• Arusha → Moshi: ~1.5 hours (80 km)

• Arusha → Tarangire National Park: ~2 hours (120 km)

• Arusha → Lake Manyara National Park: ~2.5 hours (125 km)

• Arusha → Ngorongoro Conservation Area: ~3.5 hours (190 km)

• Arusha → Serengeti National Park (Central): ~6 hours (320 km)

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June – October & December – February):
  Perfect for safaris and trekking, with clear skies and good wildlife visibility.

• Wet Season (March – May & November):
  The city and its surroundings are lush and green, ideal for photography, birdwatching, and cultural tours.

Why Include Arusha in Your Tanzania Safari Itinerary

Arusha is the heartbeat of Tanzania’s safari adventures — a place where wildlife, culture, and mountains converge.
Its strategic location, vibrant atmosphere, and accessibility make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Northern Tanzania.

Whether you’re preparing to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, embark on a Serengeti safari, or simply relax amid mountain views and coffee aromas, Arusha offers the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.

Key Attractions

• Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest peak and a rewarding climb

• Arusha National Park – giraffes, flamingos, forests, and craters

• Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater – world-famous safari destinations nearby

• Cultural Heritage Centre – Tanzanian art, crafts, and history

• Coffee Plantations – guided tours and tastings

• Maasai Villages – cultural interaction and handicrafts

• City Markets & Restaurants – local cuisine and vibrant culture