Things to do in  Arusha

Yes, Arusha Tanzania is worth visiting. It’s a major starting point for tours of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and it even has its own national park—Arusha National Park. Arusha is also a good place to shop for handicrafts and for the semiprecious stone tanzanite, which is mined nearby.

If you have one day in Arusha, head out on a morning safari to Arusha National Park. In the afternoon, visit the Cultural Heritage Centre, a massive gallery and shopping complex with art from across the country, followed by a visit to the Tanzanite Experience Museum in the city center.

Arusha is a well-maintained city with excellent tourism infrastructure including fantastic restaurants and a wide range of accommodation options. It’s the main gateway to the northern safari circuit. It’s also a major hub for diplomacy and non-profit organizations and is home to the headquarters of the East African Community.

Yes, Arusha Tanzania is expensive, particularly when compared with other East Africa destinations. While restaurants will be less expensive than in the US or Europe, expect to pay a bit more due to its status as a tourist gathering place. Accommodation options range, and low-cost guesthouses are available.

Yes, Arusha is safe to walk around in the daytime, but take taxis after dark. The city center area around the Arusha Clock Tower is particularly safe, but it’s a good idea to be mindful of your belongings and not flash your phone, money, or valuables.

Yes, Tanzania is tourist friendly. Tourism plays a big role in the local economy, owing largely to the country’s many national parks and reserves, including Kilimanjaro National Park and Serengeti National Park. Most people who work in the tourism industry speak great English along with Swahili and other languages.