Arusha is nestled between the majestic Mount Meru and the sprawling plains of the Serengeti, its often called the gateway to Tanzania’s most incredible natural wonders. But beyond its role as a safari hub, Arusha has a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a culture buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone looking for a great time, Arusha has something for you. Here’s a rundown of the 10 Places you Must visit in Arusha:
Before we dive in, for more information: you can request for an accurate safari quote or calculate the total estimated cost for your safari through our Safari Cost Calculator.
1. Cultural Heritage Centre
One of my favorite spots in Arusha is the Cultural Heritage Centre. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an explosion of colors and creativity. The center showcases local art, crafts, and artifacts, giving you a fantastic glimpse into Tanzanian culture.
If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, this is the place to shop! You can consider a Hadzabe Cultural Tour, get to learn about their history, lifestyle and many more.
2. Ol Donyo lengai
Just a short drive from Arusha lies Ol Donyolengai, a stunning volcanic mountain revered by the Maasai people. Hiking up this mountain is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
One of the most surprising fact about this mountain is that most of the clients usually climb it at night as it’s very challenging during the day due to the temperature. Standing there, with the rolling hills below and the distant peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in sight, I felt a deep connection to the land. The trail can be a bit challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and the panoramic vistas make it worth every step.
3. Meserani Snake Park
If you’re feeling adventurous (or a little brave), Meserani Snake Park is a must-visit. It’s not just a park; it’s an educational experience. Here, you can meet various snake species, some of which I had never seen before.
At the park you get to learn the following:
- You interact with snakes (+ getting holding one, a non venomous of course)
- Learn about snakes
- Ride camels
- Learn how Maasai live their lives and their culture
- Learn about crocodiles, monkeys and other animals as well.
4. Lake Duluti
Lake Duluti, a tranquil spot that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake is surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect location for birdwatching or a peaceful kayak ride.
I took a moment to sit by the water, watching the local fishermen as they cast their nets. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. If you’re up for it, renting a kayak is a great way to explore the lake at your own pace. Just be sure to bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the stunning views!
5. Mt. Meru Waterfall
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Meru, the Mt. Meru Waterfall is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
It is indeed a perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a picnic, and soak in the beauty of nature. If you’re looking for a place to recharge, this is it. Just be prepared to get a little wet from the spray!
6. Arusha Museum
Another excellent stop is the Arusha Museum. It features a broader range of artifacts and exhibitions, focusing on the rich heritage of the region. I was particularly drawn to the section on traditional dress and crafts, which showcased the diversity of Tanzania’s many ethnic groups.
One of the museum’s standout features is its commitment to education. They often host workshops and events, allowing visitors to engage with local artists and learn traditional techniques. If you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to participate in a crafting session!
7. Lake Natron (Engare Sero Waterfall)
Engare Sero Waterfall is one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked away from the usual tourist paths, it offers a stunning natural setting that’s perfect for a quiet day out.
It offers jaw dropping landscapes, plus the flowing water it’s total therapy.
8. Maasai Market
No trip to Arusha would be complete without a visit to the Maasai Market. This bustling market is filled with vibrant textiles, handmade crafts, and local goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and experience the local culture.
Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit—it’s part of the fun! Just be sure to bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards. If you’re looking for a gift to take back home, well look no further !.
9. Aim Mall
After a day of exploring, Aim Mall offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a modern shopping complex where you can find everything from international brands to local eateries. I enjoyed a delightful meal at one of the restaurants, savoring local dishes while watching a soccer match on TV.
Aim Mall is also a great place to relax, with comfortable seating areas and a movie theater for those who want to unwind after a day of adventure. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before heading back out to explore more of what Arusha has to offer.
10. Visit National Parks
I personally can’t recommend this enough to clients, if you are not on a tight budget and you’re not on a clock treat yourself with visiting famously the known Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation area, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National park or Arusha National Park. I recommend this because if you visit these national parks apart from the mall that you cant find in the wild, you’ll see everything that you can see in the places listed above.
Visiting any of these parks is therapeutic, you get enough time to refresh and reflect on new ideas on how to tackle life challenges.
Plus you get used to what you see in fixed attractions in town, I promise you when you visit national parks, what you see on the first day is very different from what you’ll experience on any other day, simply the vibe is very very different from the last.
Conclusion
Lets hope through this you get out of your comfort zone and explore what Arusha has to offer in deep. If there’s a hidden spot that i haven’t highlighted on this article kindly don’t hesitate to comment down below. Happy Exploring !!
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