Arusha
Every safari to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and beyond starts here. A working city with jacaranda-lined streets, a serious coffee culture, and Mount Meru watching over it all.
The Safari
Staging Ground
Almost nobody visits Arusha as a destination in itself — and that’s fine, because its real job is being the best-connected small city in East Africa for reaching the parks. Kilimanjaro International Airport sits roughly midway between Arusha town and Moshi, with safari operators, trekking outfitters and coffee lodges clustered around both.
Plan for one or two nights here at the start and end of a safari or trek — enough time to sort permits, gear, and a good night’s sleep before an early departure into the parks.
The climate is markedly cooler and drier than the coast, thanks to the altitude — pack a layer for evenings.
Quick Facts
Town, Airport,
or Coffee Estate
Before or After
the Safari
Walk a working coffee estate from bean to cup, with tastings at the end.
Tanzanite, Makonde carving and East African art, all under one roof near town.
Flamingos, giraffe and Mount Meru reflections, without needing a multi-day safari.