Overview
Take a trip to Arusha on your Tanzania Vacation
Located in northern Tanzania, Arusha serves as the de facto capital of the East African community. It is surrounded by some of Africa’s most famous destinations including Mount Meru, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro, making the city a popular starting point for many tourists on a Tanzania safari.
Originally a garrison town founded by German colonialists, the territory was part of German East Africa in 1900. Named after the local Wa-Arusha tribe, it quickly developed into an important centre for trading and administration. With the First World War came British occupation resulting in the relocation of German estates to British settlers who began to develop new communities.
Today, Arusha is known as “the Geneva of Africa” due to its role in human rights issues. The Arusha Accords were signed in 1993 by the government of Rwanda and the rebel Rwandan Patriotic Front to end the country’s three-year civil war. In 1994, the UN Security Council decided that Arusha would host the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and it is also the home of the African Court on Human and People’s Rights.
While perceived by many to be the starting point for other African destinations, the city hosts Arusha National Park and Mount Meru as well as the Maasai, one of Africa’s most iconic tribes making Arusha an interesting tourist destination in its own right. on a Tanzania vacation.
While perceived by many to be the starting point for other African destinations, the city hosts Arusha National Park and Mount Meru as well as the Maasai, one of Africa’s most iconic tribes making Arusha an interesting tourist destination in its own right. on a Tanzania vacation.
At a Glance
Languages
Swahili, EnglishCurrency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)What do the experts say?
An ideal first-time itinerary starts in Arusha and ends in Zanzibar. To maximize time, “Sky Safari” packages using small aircraft to fly guests directly between lodges offer breathtaking aerial views of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes as well as convenience.
The people and wildlife are amazing. You always feel safe at the tented camps, even knowing animals are around. The locals treat you with such warmth and respect.
We provide local experiences, manage client expectations, and work with trusted suppliers so travellers feel safe and enjoy every moment of their trip.
Ngorongoro and Serengeti National Park are simply spectacular. There’s no place quite like the massive crater or the migration-covered plains.
Tanzania’s hospitality is incredible. You’ll always feel welcomed, wherever you go.
Daily life on the streets of Arusha perhaps man...
Waterbuck's in Arusha National Park
A close-up of a giraffe in Arusha National Park
You will see many carts on the streets during y...
White Colobus monkey - Arusha National Park
Most Popular Time to Travel
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Place
Conditions
Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall
ArushaMostly Cloudy
27°C / 81°F
30mm / 1.2"
Weather data is based on monthly averages.Popularity rating
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