Tanzania is one of the most exciting and beautiful travel destinations in the entire world. The country offers visitors a hose of experiences from serenity, relaxation, adventure, and knowledge, all at the same time. Each city has its own charms and cannot be compared to another, it has to be experienced first hand. One such city is that of Arusha.
Found At the base of Mount Meru, Arusha is a great location that must be on every tourist's wish list, being home to the amazing Arusha National Park, and acting as a gateway to great safari destinations such as Ngorongoro, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara, Africa's highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, lying 100 kilometres northeast, and the glorious Serengeti National Park in the west.
The city offers nature lovers a gateway to some of the natures most beautiful views to explore to your heart's content. If you’re planning a trip to Arusha and want to ensure you make the most of every second you have to spare then our travel guide to the city of Arusha is the ideal place to start.
So what's so special about Arusha, you ask? Let's have a look.
Geneva of Africa
Arusha is called the Geneva of Africa, ever since former US President Bill Clinton compared it to Geneva in Switzerland, which is home to the offices for the United Nations when he arrived in 2000 to witness the Burundi peace signing pact!
How to Get There
Arusha is accessible through flights and buses from Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro Airport, and Serengeti Seronera. To get cheaper deals, and avoid any inconvenience, visitors should book flights or vehicles online beforehand!
Where to Stay
Some of the best hotels in Arusha are Four Points by Sheraton, Le Jacaranda Hotel, Venus Premier Hotel, Mount Meru Hotel, and Boulevard Inn Mt Meru, which offer comfort, relaxation, and luxury, with gardens, lounges, and bars! Tourists can also stay at lodges such as Viviji Centre Lodge, Arusha Planet Lodge, Mount Meru Game Lodge, and Zawadi House Lodge.
When to Go
The ideal time to visit Arusha is from June to October, as it is easier to spot wild animals which gather at water sources and are easily visible as vegetation is thin. The weather is pleasant, with sufficient sunshine and, and little rain.
Flamingoes, Image Source: Flickr.Com
What to Pack
Visitors must always carry their documents such as ID cards, visa, and Passport, as well as important medication, a first aid kit, sunscreen, an extra warm layer, a power bank, spare batteries, a map and guidebook.
Due to its location and moderate altitude, Arush is usually very warm during the day, and can often be a little chilly after sunset. Light coloured clothing (less attractive to mozzies and bugs), good walking shoes, a light jacket, long sleeves and trousers for evenings to minimise the risk of mosquito bites, good sun hat and of course that camera.
Safety
Although Arusha is generally safe for travel, tourists should take precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas, keeping a safe distance from wild animals, only getting taxis and transport from reliable sources, and completing all the bookings in advance. Tourists should take care of their belongings!
Where to Eat
The cuisine of Arusha is exquisite, with restaurants such as Chinese Whispers, The Blue Heron, Georges Tavern, Khan's BBQ, Picasso Cafe, Kitamu Coffee, and Rivertrees Restaurant offering mouthwatering food from all over the world!
Language
Most people in Arusha can speak English, but the national language is Swahili, so learning a few words such as Shikamo (a polite version of Hello), and Asante Sana (Thank you very much), is a great idea!
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers the spectacular view of Mount Meru and is home to a variety of animals including the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant), and exotic birds such as flamingoes, geese, and woodpeckers etc.
