Situated at the base of Mount Meru and acting as the gateway to the northern safari circuit, Arusha is a vibrant Tanzanian city that blends adventure, nature, and culture. If you’re wondering what to do in Arusha Tanzania, this guide covers everything—from iconic safaris to local cuisine, cultural tours, and hidden gems.
Whether you’re stopping over before a safari or spending a few days to soak in its charm, Arusha offers diverse and unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.
1. Begin with an Arusha City Tour
To get oriented, start your visit with a guided city tour or a self-exploration walk through downtown Arusha. Highlights include:
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Arusha Clock Tower: Said to be halfway between Cairo and Cape Town.
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Central Market (Soko Kuu): A lively space for buying fruits, spices, fabrics, and souvenirs.
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Local cafés and eateries: Perfect for trying Tanzanian coffee or local snacks like samosas and vitumbua (rice pancakes).
A half-day city tour gives you a taste of daily life in Arusha while introducing you to its culture and architecture.
2. Visit Arusha National Park
Just 25 km away, Arusha National Park is ideal for a day trip. It may be smaller than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but it packs in lakes, craters, rainforests, and wildlife. You’ll see:
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Giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and flamingos
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The picturesque Momella Lakes
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Mount Meru, which can be climbed in 3–4 days
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Ngurdoto Crater, filled with forest and animals
You can even do a walking safari or canoe on the lakes—rare experiences in Tanzania’s parks.
3. Tour a Coffee Plantation
Arusha lies in a rich coffee-growing region thanks to its volcanic soil. You can visit local coffee estates like those near Usa River or on the outskirts of Arusha town. A typical plantation tour includes:
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A walk through coffee fields
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A look into harvesting and processing
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Roasting demonstrations
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Coffee tasting and meals on-site
It’s a peaceful yet educational experience with incredible mountain views.
4. Discover the Tanzanite Experience Museum
Tanzanite, one of the rarest gemstones in the world, is mined only near Arusha. Learn about its history, mining process, and cultural importance at the Tanzanite Experience Museum.
Here you can:
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See exhibits on the gem’s discovery and geology
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Watch the cutting and polishing process
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Shop for certified Tanzanite jewelry
Even if you’re not buying, it’s a fascinating visit for gem enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
5. Experience the Maasai Culture
One of the most immersive things to do in Arusha is visiting a Maasai village or participating in a cultural tour. The Maasai are one of Tanzania’s most iconic tribes known for their dress, traditions, and cattle-herding lifestyle.
Activities include:
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Visiting a boma (traditional homestead)
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Learning about Maasai rituals and dances
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Buying handmade jewelry and crafts
Many safaris or cultural centers offer day tours that include these authentic experiences.
6. Shop at the Maasai Market and Cultural Heritage Centre
If you’re looking to shop, two places stand out:
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Maasai Market (Downtown Arusha): A bustling open-air market filled with crafts, paintings, fabrics, wood carvings, and beaded jewelry. Bargain for the best deals!
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Cultural Heritage Centre: A more organized, upscale shopping and gallery experience. You’ll find everything from sculptures to antiques and Tanzanian history exhibits.
Both places are great for collecting souvenirs and supporting local artisans.
7. Take a Day Trip to Lake Duluti
For nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape, Lake Duluti is a perfect half-day destination. It’s a crater lake surrounded by lush greenery and a hotspot for birdwatching.
Things to do here:
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Rent a canoe and paddle around the lake
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Go on a forest walk along the crater rim
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Enjoy a meal at the lakeside lodge
Keep an eye out for kingfishers, herons, and monitor lizards.
8. Trek Mount Meru
Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Africa, is a great trek for those wanting to avoid the crowds on Kilimanjaro. It’s located within Arusha National Park and offers:
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3–4 day treks with scenic campsites
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Views of Kilimanjaro at sunrise
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Wildlife encounters along the way
You’ll need a guide, and the route is less commercialized than Kilimanjaro, making it ideal for adventurers.
9. Visit the Meserani Snake Park
Families and reptile lovers will enjoy the Meserani Snake Park, located just outside Arusha on the Dodoma road. The park has:
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Dozens of snake species including cobras and vipers
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A crocodile pit and bird exhibits
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A Maasai cultural museum
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Camel rides for children
It’s educational and offers a unique break from the usual wildlife parks.
10. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Trying Tanzanian dishes is essential for a full travel experience. Some popular meals in Arusha include:
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Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, often goat or beef, served with kachumbari (tomato-onion salad)
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Ugali: A maize flour staple eaten with stews
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Mishkaki: Meat skewers grilled over coals
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Mandazi: Slightly sweet fried dough snacks
You’ll find great food in local eateries like Khan’s BBQ, Africafe, and small roadside joints.
11. Volunteer or Support a Local NGO
If you have a few days to spare, consider volunteering with an NGO or non-profit in Arusha. Many programs welcome short-term visitors to help with:
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Teaching English
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Community development
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Wildlife and environmental conservation
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Orphanage assistance
Even a short visit or donation can help support ongoing projects and provide cultural exchange.
12. Plan a Safari from Arusha
Arusha is the main hub for organizing safaris to:
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Serengeti National Park
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Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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Tarangire National Park
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Lake Manyara National Park
You can opt for budget-friendly group safaris or go luxurious with private game drives and tented camps. Most tour companies offer pickups right from your hotel in Arusha.
Best Time to Visit Arusha
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Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing
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Green Season (November to May): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists
Arusha has a temperate climate due to its elevation, making it pleasant most of the year.
Travel Tips for Visiting Arusha
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Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). Carry cash for markets and tips.
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Language: Swahili is widely spoken, but English is common in tourist areas.
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Transportation: Use taxis or ride-hailing apps. Avoid crowded minibuses (dala-dalas) unless you’re comfortable.
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Safety: Arusha is generally safe, but avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Conclusion
Arusha is more than just a stepping stone to Tanzania’s famous national parks—it’s a destination full of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re relaxing at Lake Duluti, sipping coffee on a plantation, shopping at the Maasai Market, or beginning a life-changing safari, you’ll never run out of things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Pack your sense of wonder and an open heart—Arusha is ready to welcome you.
