Arusha City
The Arusha City is situated at the foot of Mount Meru, Africa’s 5th highest mountain. The altitude (1,400m ASL) gives the city a pleasant climate and lush green environment.
Arusha is not a particularly attractive city in itself and is regarded by many visitors as little more than a necessary stopover before the start of a Tanzania safari. However, the natural charm of the Tanzanians and the buzz of a fast-growing city mean that Arusha has plenty to offer for those who are prepared to see beyond their air-conditioned city accommodation.
Things to See & Do In Arusha City
- Visit the Arusha Declaration Museum.
- Trek or Climb Mount Meru (4,667 m).
- Go see Arusha National Park.
Best time to visit Arusha City
Although Arusha City is open to visits all year round, the best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season. For visitors intending to go on a safari in the Arusha National Park, this is easier to spot the wildlife – since they normally gather around the waterholes, rainfall is minimal, vegetation is not too thick and mosquitos levels are reduced – making for an enjoyable time to explore this small vibrant city.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Tanzania Embassy to verify the information below is current.
Getting to Arusha City
From your home country, you will fly in through Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) about 56km/35mi to Arusha city
Arusha City is a relatively compact city and further transportation within the city is usually done by road, though our Tanzania safaris include one or more flights. Realm Africa Safaris™ will collect you from the airport or hotel and further transportation will be part of your pre-booked your safari.
Things to See & Do
- Visit Arusha National Park.
Despite being a small park, Arusha National Park offers great sightings of giraffe, Cape buffalo, zebra, warthog, the black-and-white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, flamingo, elephant, and lion. Leopards are present but rarely seen. Birdlife in the forest is prolific, with many forest species more easily seen here than elsewhere on the tourist route – Narina trogon and bar-tailed trogon are both highlights for the birder lovers.
Learn more about Arusha National Park
- Arusha Declaration Museum.
Dedicated to the 1967 Arusha Declaration, which remains one of the most prominent attempts to define African socialism. It defined the political course of Tanzania for several decades. The museum also includes the large Declaration Monument.
- Climb Mount Meru (4,667 m).
Climbing Mount Meru can be done in 3–4 days, depending on your physical ability. You are not required to take guides and porters up Mount Meru, but you must be escorted by armed rangers. Temperatures can be freezing, so prepare for warm clothing and sleeping bags.
The best time to visit Arusha City
Although Arusha City is open to visits all year round, the best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season. For visitors intending to go on a safari in the Arusha National Park, this is easier to spot the wildlife – since they normally gather around the waterholes, rainfall is minimal, vegetation is not too thick and mosquitos levels are reduced – making for an enjoyable time to explore this small vibrant city.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Tanzania Embassy to verify the information below is current.
Getting in & around
From your home country, you will fly in through Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) about 56km/35mi to Arusha city
Arusha City is a relatively compact city and further transportation within the city is usually done by road, though our Tanzania safaris include one or more flights. Realm Africa Safaris™ will collect you from the airport or hotel and further transportation will be part of your pre-booked your safari.
