The Arusha Cultural Centre is a great place to shop, just 2 kilometres (1.3 miles) from the town. You can explore a special collection of handmade items, local artwork, and rare Tanzanian gemstones. Don’t miss the museum and art gallery — not only are they full of beautiful pieces, but all the money they earn goes toward protecting elephants.
Arusha, Tanzania
Why Visit Arusha?
Arusha is the safari capital of Tanzania, located on the southern slopes of Mount Meru. This city is the gateway to some of a Tanzania safari’s most spectacular natural wonders, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire, and Arusha National Park. Arusha was built by the Germans as a colonial base because of its cool weather. It sits 1,400 metres (4,600 feet) above sea level. If you have extra time, it’s a great place to relax before or after you Tanzania safari. The city is also a big international hub and has played an important role in Tanzania’s history. Arusha was the filming location for the 1962 movie Hatari! starring the famous actor, John Wayne. There’s a lot to do in and around Arusha — from hiking and watching wildlife to cultural visits and tasting local coffee.
Top Things To See & Do In Arusha
Arusha National Park
One of the best things to do in Arusha is to visit Arusha National Park. It’s the most popular trip from the city, and for good reason. The park is full of amazing animals — you might see elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and even the rare black-and-white Kilimanjaro colobus monkeys. But the biggest reason people love this park is the beautiful scenery. Mount Meru, a huge and stunning mountain, rises high above the park. You will also find places that look like smaller versions of Tanzania’s most famous spots. Ngurdoto Crater is like a mini Ngorongoro, and Serengeti Ndogo means “Little Serengeti,” with wide open grasslands and animals roaming free. You can go trekking, canoeing, or bird watching — there’s so much to enjoy in Arusha National Park.
Materuni Waterfalls & Kikuletwa Hot Springs
Enjoy the best of Arusha’s nature on a fun-filled full-day tour. Hike through lush green hills to see the stunning Materuni Waterfalls. Discover how local coffee is grown and made, then taste a fresh cup yourself. Enjoy a delicious homemade lunch, and later, relax and swim in the warm, clear waters of Kikuletwa Hot Springs. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Coffee Plantation Walking Adventure
Arusha is famous for its rich coffee, and many coffee plantations can be found around the city. A walking tour through one of these plantations lets you see the whole journey — from growing the coffee plant to roasting the perfect beans. You can relax in the peaceful plantation gardens and taste different types of fresh, local coffee.
Tinga Tinga Art Class
Discover your creative side in a fun Tinga Tinga art class, guided by a skilled local artist. You’ll learn about the history and style of this colourful East African art, known for its bright colours, dotted patterns, and playful animal scenes. It’s a fun and relaxed activity for both kids and adults — a perfect way to enjoy an afternoon and take home your own piece of art!
Arusha Cultural Centre
Market Shopping
Arusha’s markets are full of life, color, and excitement—exploring them is one of the best things to do in the city. The Central Market gives you a real taste of local life. It’s busy, lively, and full of sights and smells that most tourists never get to see. Kilombero Market is even bigger—it’s the largest in Arusha. This is a true African market, packed with energy, where you’ll find hardly any tourists. If you’re looking to buy local crafts and souvenirs, visit the Mt Meru Curios & Crafts Market, also known as the Maasai Market. It’s the perfect place to find handmade gifts and meet local artists.
Our Tanzania Safari Itineraries
Make your Tanzanian safari even better with a stop in Arusha! Our trip planners will create a special safari just for you, based on what you like and how you want to travel. We suggest a trip that mixes culture and wildlife for the best experience. Check out these sample plans to get inspired and start dreaming about your Tanzanian adventure. Contact us today! The friendly team at Greenway Nature Tours Africa is ready to help you build an amazing trip to Arusha.
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