Arusha
Safari capital of East Africa — gateway to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Kilimanjaro
Overview
Arusha is the safari capital of East Africa - the gateway city for the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, and Tanzania's new Safari + Golf circuits. Set at 1,400 metres on the slopes of Mount Meru, the city enjoys a temperate climate, vibrant markets, and a growing collection of world-class hotels. For golfers, the Arusha Golf Course offers a pleasant warm-up round before the safari-led journey continues north. Gran Melia Arusha provides five-star accommodation in coffee-plantation gardens, while the city's restaurants serve increasingly sophisticated cuisine blending Tanzanian, Indian, and international influences.
Wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Arusha's highland climate is pleasant throughout the year with temperatures of 15-28 degrees Celsius. The short rains (November-December) and long rains (March-May) bring occasional afternoon showers but rarely disrupt travel plans.
Getting There
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is 50 km east of the city - approximately 45 minutes by road. Arusha Airport handles domestic flights to the Serengeti, Zanzibar, and other bush airstrips. Most Safari + Golf packages include airport-to-hotel transfers.
Areas to Explore
Arusha National Park
A compact gem just 30 minutes from the city, offering walking safaris among giraffe and buffalo, canoe trips on the Momella Lakes, and views of both Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. The perfect half-day excursion before or after a Safari + Golf journey.
Mount Meru
Africa's fifth-highest peak at 4,566 metres, offering a challenging 3-4 day trek through montane forest and alpine desert. Often used as an acclimatization climb before Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru provides a rewarding trek in its own right with summit views that stretch to Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
Climbs & Journeys Here
Kilimanjaro via Machame Route — 6 Days
Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania · Authentic Kilimanjaro✓ Verified
The classic Machame route in a faster 6-day format — for fit, experienced trekkers who want to summit the Whiskey Route efficiently.
$1,900per person
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Kilimanjaro via Marangu Route — 6 Days
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The classic 'Coca-Cola Route' — the only path with hut accommodation. A 6-day eastern approach to Uhuru Peak.
$1,950per person
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Kilimanjaro via Umbwe Route — 6 Days
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The steepest and most direct route — for experienced trekkers seeking a challenging ascent through ancient forest and the Western Breach.
$2,050per person
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Kilimanjaro via Rongai Route — 7 Days
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The quiet northern approach from the Kenyan border. 7 days through wilderness with the best chance of clear weather.
$2,100per person
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