GUIDE ON ARUSHA CITY IN TANZANIA

Formerly the site of a German military base in the colonial times, Arusha is one of the fastest growing cities in Tanzania. Located halfway between Cape Town and Cairo, the city is perfectly sited to give you easy access to Tanzania's most spectacular wilderness areas, such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and many others. The exceptional proximity to the prime wilderness areas has earned the city the nickname of "Safari Town," and every day you will see safari vehicles with visitors who are just beginning their northern circuit safari experience, making Arusha the center of tourism in Tanzania.



Located at the base of Mount Meru, the city gives you endless views of this iconic mountain, as well as Mount Kilimanjaro. From Arusha and Moshi, you can easily access and climb these two majestic peaks with Uhuru Trails by AfricanMecca or spend the day at Arusha National Park or even the west plains of Kilimanjaro National Park for a game drive tour of the Amboseli ecosystem.



In addition to safari tourism, Arusha is also known for being a significant business center, and its role in diplomatic affairs is represented by the presence of the International Criminal Tribunal for many of the governments in East Africa. You will also find an intriguing blend of cultures in Arusha, such as Swahili, Indians, Europeans, Americans and local native peoples like the Waarusha.

With so many cultures in one metropolis, you also have the chance to sample foods from around the world, as well as local favorites. Arusha offers street cafes, restaurants and bars where you can savor African and international cuisine, wines and beers. The convenient shops, Maasai Market, farmers market, museums and historic sites within the city allow you to explore almost endlessly. Local communities offer their wares and produce at the street markets, and you may even participate in workshops to learn traditional skills, such as Makonde carving.



To learn more about the native peoples in the region, you may choose one of many Arusha cultural programs that are available, or you may spend some time working with the community programs that support efforts to enhance the quality of life for Tanzanians.