Overview
Your journey starts here.
Set at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha is the main gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit and the natural starting point for journeys toward Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
Unlike the national parks that surround it, Arusha is a lively city where everyday Tanzanian life meets the beginning of the safari experience. Its location places you close to Arusha National Park, Mount Meru and the major routes leading into northern Tanzania's wilderness.
Spend time exploring the city, meet local communities, discover coffee culture or simply settle into the rhythm of Tanzania before heading into the wild.
For many travellers, Arusha is more than a stopover.
It is where the journey begins.
Activities Arusha
Discover the natural beauty of Arusha National Park through a range of safari and outdoor activities.
- Game Drives
- Canoeing Safari
- Walking Safaris
- Trekking
Iconic Wildlife
Meet the remarkable species that call Tanzania home.
Giraffe
The world’s tallest mammals, recognised by their long necks, patterned coats, and graceful movements.
Lion
Powerful predators known for their social prides, distinctive manes, and important role in Africa’s ecosystems.
Leopard
Elusive big cats known for their spotted coats, climbing ability, and remarkable hunting skills.
Cheetah
The world’s fastest land animals, known for their slender bodies, spotted coats, and incredible speed.
Elephant
The largest land mammals, known for their intelligence, social structure, and distinctive tusks.
Buffalo
Powerful herbivores known for their strong herds, impressive horns, and unpredictable nature.
Wildebeest
Large grazing antelope known for their seasonal migrations, powerful builds, and distinctive appearance.
Zebra
Striking African herbivores recognised by their unique black-and-white stripes and strong social groups.
Hippopotamus
Large semi-aquatic mammals known for their powerful jaws, massive bodies, and time spent in water.
Rhinoceros
Large, powerful herbivores recognised by their thick skin, strong horns, and ancient appearance.
Hyena
Highly social carnivores known for their strong jaws, complex communities, and distinctive calls.
Gazelle
Agile antelope known for their slender bodies, graceful movements, and remarkable running ability.
Ostrich
The world’s largest birds, known for their long legs, powerful running speed, and distinctive feathers.
Baboon
Intelligent and highly social primates known for their expressive faces, strong groups, and adaptability.
Warthog
Distinctive wild pigs recognised by their facial tusks, sturdy bodies, and characteristic grazing posture.
Flamingo
Elegant waterbirds known for their pink feathers, long legs, and distinctive curved bills.
Colobus Monkey
Agile forest monkeys recognised by their striking black-and-white coats and long flowing tails.
Bushbuck
Shy antelope known for their beautiful coats, solitary behaviour, and preference for dense vegetation.
Waterbuck
Large antelope recognised by their distinctive white markings and strong preference for water-rich habitats.
Dik-dik
Tiny antelope known for their delicate features, long snouts, and remarkable ability to survive in dry habitats.
Best Time to Visit
Arusha can be visited throughout the year.
June – October generally brings drier weather, making it a comfortable time to begin your safari.
Start in Arusha. Then follow the wild.