Arusha is the safari capital of northern Tanzania and the main gateway to world-famous destinations such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire. The city sits at the foot of Mount Meru, offering cool highland air, stunning views and a calm base before or after a safari. With its modern airport connections, reliable road network and wide range of accommodations — from boutique lodges to luxury hotels — Arusha is the perfect starting point for almost every northern circuit itinerary.
Beyond its role as a transit hub, Arusha has its own attractions worth exploring. Visitors can enjoy cultural markets, local coffee estates, waterfalls, and walking safaris in Arusha National Park — home to rare black-and-white colobus monkeys and scenic crater lakes. It’s also a convenient spot for pre-safari briefings, gear shopping, and relaxing nights before heading into the bush. We recommend Arusha as a pre-safari base, post-safari wind-down, or as part of a Mount Kilimanjaro climbing trip.
