2026 Arusha Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

In , there is a spectacle more magnificent and healing than the "Crossing to Heaven"—every year from December to March, millions of wildebeest and zebra 🦓 babies are born together on the savannah! 🔵 In the morning light, soft zebra foals wobble as they learn to walk 👣, baby wildebeests can run just 20 minutes after birth, lion 🦁 cubs roll under the acacia trees... This is not just a Safari, it’s like stepping into a real-life "Life Documentary" 🎦! ⭕ We will avoid the crowds and venture deep into southern Serengeti’s Ndutu ✅—the world’s best "maternity ward." Here, every day witnesses the shock and tenderness of "life" ✨ - 🏆 Itinerary Highlights ✅ Venture deep into the heart of the savannah to witness the first cries of wildebeest calves and experience the miracle of life on the plains ✅ Visit 4 classic destinations in one trip: Serengeti (migration core) + Ngorongoro (volcanic crater secret) + Ndutu (calving core) + Tarangire (elephant paradise) ✅ 4 unique safari styles: open-top 4x4 + horseback riding + walking + night Safari, 360° all-around animal tracking ✅ Savannah romance trio: hot air balloon chase the migration + sunset dinner + Wildlife estate (having breakfast with 🦒 is not a dream) ✅ Exclusive guide + luxury wilderness lodges + 1-on-1 service + 24h fresh flower airport pickup... - 🏨 Staying in the scenery is the true meaning of luxury Lemala Mpingo Ridge: Enjoy 360° panoramic views of the Serengeti, an infinity pool seemingly merging with the savannah, and a starry sky bathtub for ultimate relaxation Ngorongoro Lodge Meliá Collection: A luxurious secret retreat atop the crater, waking up to clouds rolling beneath your feet, like living in the clouds Arusha Coffee Lodge: A healing estate with an extraordinary coffee experience, wooden villas surrounded by coffee bushes, full of plantation charm Elewana Serengeti Explorer: In the heart of the Serengeti, open your window to endless plains, and relax by the pool while witnessing the grand wildebeest migration - 🌈 7 days 6 nights, itinerary arranged to leave no regrets D1: 24h airport pickup - Mount Kilimanjaro - animal estate D2: Arusha - Tarangire Safari D3: Full day Safari in Ndutu D4: Hot air balloon over the migration - full day Safari D5: Southern Serengeti Ndutu - central area, full day Safari D6: Ngorongoro Crater Safari D7: East African Rift Valley - airport drop-off (🉑 extend to Zanzibar Island) - 💟 Some sincere advice 🔹 Calving season is a mild peak season with good weather and fewer tourists, enhancing the experience 🔸 Photography tip: bring a telephoto lens, the details and emotional moments of the calves are the most touching 🔹 Deep itinerary experience with diverse activities, perfect for those who dislike rushed tours - 🌟 Interested? Contact me for itinerary details and quotes. December to March spots are limited, so book early for this life encounter!

Discover Arusha’s Unmissable Gems! ✨🦓🌿 Ready to explore Arusha like a true wanderer? 1. Serval Wildlife where you’ll get up close with rescued animals in safari-style enclosures. Go for interactive feeding sessions and snap insta-worthy shots with giraffes. White lions, zebras and so many more. Best at early morning light for golden, soft backgrounds! If possible, book a night stay for bonus sunset safaris and starlit fireside stories. 2. Meru Eco Camp (Napuru Waterfalls, Olgilai)—nestled by waterfalls and forest. It’s an eco-friendly hideaway ideal for relaxing or hiking to the gushing falls (wear sturdy shoes!). The waterfall mist makes for magical, ethereal shots, especially in the afternoon glow. 3. Lake Duluti here you can rent a canoe or hike the lush forest trails, perfect for birdwatching and landscape pics. Bring bug spray, and if hiking, go with a guide for insider stories and safety. 4. Cultural Heritage Centre for a dose of Tanzanian art, craft shopping, and tribal history and set aside time to browse local gemstone galleries—great for unique souvenirs! 5. Materuni Waterfalls a 2 hour hike to this beautiful waterfall that falls too loud and hard, you can see the view of Mt. Kilimanjaro on your way back to the village. 6. Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, a beautiful place for horseback riding, ride on a wooden canoe. Here you can book for a stay or just a visit. #Arusha #WildlifeSafari #TanzaniaTravel #Culture #EcoAdventure

Hey everyone, my experience at the Selian Hotel in Arusha was absolutely amazing😍. Check out my story! 🌍 Prime Location: The Golden Starting Point for Exploring Africa The Selian Hotel boasts a superb location📍 in the heart of Arusha. With easy access to transportation hubs, it's incredibly convenient for embarking on adventures to the Serengeti plains to witness the breathtaking wildebeest migration, or venturing to the Ngorongoro Crater to marvel at nature's wonders. The hotel is also surrounded by local shops and bustling markets, offering a taste of authentic African culture. 🛏 Comfortable Rooms: A Perfect Blend of Warmth and Style Stepping into the room, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere🛌. The bed was incredibly soft and comfortable, like sleeping on a cloud, allowing for instant relaxation. The room's decor seamlessly blends modern minimalism with traditional African elements, from tribal-inspired murals to handcrafted wooden furniture, showcasing unique charm in every detail. High-end amenities include a smart TV with a wide selection of channels and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring entertainment and leisure at your fingertips📶. The bathroom features a separate shower and bathtub, stocked with top-quality toiletries that emit a subtle fragrance, creating a luxurious experience. 🍽 A Feast for the Senses: A Culinary Journey Through Africa and Beyond The hotel's dining options are a true celebration of flavors🍽️! The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring both authentic African specialties, such as expertly spiced grilled meats, tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, with rich, lingering flavors😋, and exquisite international cuisine. The Italian pasta in the Western restaurant is perfectly al dente, coated in a rich sauce, transporting you to the streets of Italy with every bite. The breakfast spread is equally impressive, with fresh fruit, delicious bread, and local beverages, providing a perfect start to an energetic day. 🌳 Unique Amenities: Embrace Nature and Fun The hotel's amenities are truly exceptional🌳. The swimming pool, nestled amidst tropical plants, offers a refreshing escape, evoking the feeling of being in a rainforest. The garden is a vibrant tapestry of colorful tropical flora, inviting you to stroll through a botanical paradise. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to cater to all your workout needs. The children's play area is filled with exciting facilities, keeping the little ones entertained for hours. 👩‍💼 Attentive Service: Warmth and Care Like Home The hotel staff is incredibly welcoming, attentive, and caring👩‍💼. From the warm smiles at check-in to the prompt responses to every request during my stay, I felt completely at ease. When I inquired about local attractions, the staff provided detailed information and helped me plan my itinerary, making my trip even smoother. My time at the Selian Hotel in Arusha was truly wonderful and unforgettable. If you're planning a trip to Arusha, don't miss out on this gem!

Thinking of visiting Tanzania Here is your local tour operator that can tailor affordable packages for safaris and Zanzibar beaches, The package will take you to embark at Serengeti Np , Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire Np , we give assurance of best services to our clients though our experienced and experts guides ! Welcome to Tanzania with us 💰Average Price per Person: From usd 1000 💞Reasons to Recommend:Explore authentic nature and discover undiscovered #trip #summervacation #summer #summertrip #summerdream #couplestrip #urbanexplorer #songkran2024 #mytravelhacks #cherryblossom2024 #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #trip #tripmoments #travelinspiration #travelling

after our struggle but worth hiking experience at Kilimanjaro peak, we decided for a safari adventure at The Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is a protected 8292km area and labelled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site The main feature of the Ngorongoro Conservation is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest inactive, intact and unfilled volcanic caldera. we thought it was a very expansive area where Masaai people and wildlifes live harmonily. Personally, i like Ngorongoro because we see more animals, faunas and wildlifes here. they are everywhere. we had the best guide Anthony who drove us around this area on jeep. #safari #wildlifes #wildlifepark

Day 2 Safari: still at Ngorongoro Conservation Area after the tour with the cool Masaai peeps, we continue to hunt for the Big 5. which is the most wanted animals people looking for are looking for in safari. They are lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo & leopard. we excited to spot simba, angry buffalo, leopard hanging on the trer & elephants looking for foodz unfortunately, rhino was nowhere to be found. borengggg we saw abundance of zebras, impala & hyena! we had the feeling of Lion King set #travel3sixty #thebigfivesafari #safari #ngorongoroconservationarea #ngorongoro #tanzania #eastafrica #africa

#safari

waterfalls and swimming

#travel2026 #familytravel

📅 Itinerary Day 1: Touch down in Arusha and get ready for a dose of local flavor! First up, head straight to the iconic Arusha Clock Tower (Sokoine Road, Arusha) – it’s a total must-snap pic spot that’s basically at the heart of the city. While you’re out strolling, don’t miss the vibrant bursts of color at local art galleries and roadside stalls—seriously, the creativity in Arusha is on another level. Feeling snacky? Follow the smoky scents wafting from the streets at night and treat yourself to some real-deal Tanzanian BBQ. Think juicy, roasted chicken leg (so crispy, so good! 😋) served with tangy sauces and all those wild local condiments. Day 2: Time for some wild adventure! Whether you’re headed for Serengeti, Tarangire, or Ngorongoro, Arusha is THE launchpad for your safari dreams. Book ahead and double-check your pick-up spot—they often swing by right from your hotel lobby (score!). 🏨 Accommodation: Stayed at Sanna Boutique Hotel (Plot 7, Block D, Njiro Road, Arusha). Loved the ultra-chill vibe, spotless rooms, and that breakfast—made just for you every morning. Staff here are total sweethearts and love to share local tips. 🍴 Food Recommendations: Seriously, don’t leave without trying local BBQ at an outdoor street vendor. If street eats aren’t your thing, there are some cute cafes popping up around the clock tower too. 📌 Tips - Arusha is perfect for a quick stop! Get some sleep, eat well, check out the art, but don’t linger too long—save your energy for the safari! - Book rooms on trip.com for the best deals and legit reviews. Feeling the travel itch already? Arusha’s city hustle is #shortandsweet so you can chase those safari dreams ASAP.

#arushamarket

We had the time of our lives here. The guide was super knowledgeable about the Serengeti and animals and the camping was amazing. visitors of elephants, hippo and wilderbeast at night. Wish we booked a long trip.

Anyone down for a lakeside escape? 😱 This hotel & spa resort is seriously next-level! Just look at those views – pure magic, and the rooms are sooo stunning! 😍 Every corner is Insta-worthy, for real. Whether you’re up for a luxe suite, cozy cabin, or lakeside villa, this place has all the vibes. Major bonus: the on-site restaurant is a total foodie heaven 🍛 – think global flavors and local specialties, yum! Perfect spot to kick back, recharge, or snap those vacay pics. Check it out for your next getaway! ✨ Find it by the scenic lakeside (address: check Trip.com for details and booking), open all year round so you can chase both summer chills and winter wonderland feels. Who’s packing their bags next?

Trust these experts for your tanzanite needs—you won't regret it! They are professional, trustworthy, well-organized, and highly efficient. I'm absolutely thrilled with my purchase and the overall shopping experience. Big thanks to Junaid for resizing the ring and delivering it so promptly!

I just came back from the most incredible adventure of my life—a solo safari in Tanzania with Duma Explorer / Alika Africa to mark my 40th birthday. Right from the beginning, Stacy made the planning process so straightforward. She’s outstanding at what she does and an excellent travel organizer. She really listened to what I was looking for and used her in-depth knowledge of the camps and lodges to create an itinerary that felt completely personalized for me. Each accommodation had its own unique charm, which I truly appreciated! During my journey, I visited Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and both the Central and Western Serengeti. Thanks to Stacy’s impeccable timing, I got to witness the Great Migration in the Western Serengeti—thousands of wildebeest and zebra making their incredible journey. Seeing it up close was an experience I still can’t completely wrap my head around. Isack, my guide, brought even more magic to the trip. He’s funny, kind, unbelievably knowledgeable, and an excellent driver—at one point, he used a rope to pull another safari vehicle out of thick mud. We shared so many laughs, and I gained so much insight from him throughout the trip. He made me feel safe and cared for every step of the way, and saying goodbye to him was genuinely emotional. That’s just how special he is. This was far more than just a vacation—it was an experience that truly changed my life. I already find myself daydreaming about my next adventure. If you’re considering a safari in Tanzania, book with Duma Explorer / Alika Africa, aim for the Great Migration if possible, and request Isack as your guide. You won’t regret it!

Walking through this magnificent property felt utterly therapeutic. The staff were kind, thoughtful, and made us feel at home. Dinner on the rooftop was an unforgettable experience—offering stunning views of Mount Nero accompanied by lively Afrobeats. The breakfast buffet led by Patrick and his team was hands-down the best we’ve ever enjoyed, featuring a mouthwatering and varied selection of dishes: authentic Swahili, Indian cuisine, vegan options, and classic American breakfast favorites.

Gorgeous and spotless property. The food is fantastic. The staff are extremely helpful. Stunning views of the nearby mountains. If you're staying in Arusha as a layover before heading on safari in Tanzania, this is the ideal spot. Conveniently located near the Arusha airport. The rooftop bar and restaurant are delightful, and the buffet breakfasts are impressive.

Stayed one night. The room was tidy and cozy. Had a late lunch at the rooftop restaurant—service was slow, and the food was average. Breakfast selection was decent. We skipped the fresh food and avoided the cold beverages. The landscaping was impressive, with lovely grounds. Got an excellent view of Kilimanjaro.

My husband and I just completed a 10-day safari, and we couldn't be happier that we chose Basecamp. From our first email to book the trip to bidding farewell to our driver/guide at the airport, the whole experience was incredible. Achmed, the owner, was very responsive over email, showing great patience and kindness as he answered all my questions and helped us finalize the ideal itinerary. Among the companies we considered, Basecamp stood out for its excellent communication, personalization, and unbeatable value for the cost. Achmed even took the time to personally greet us upon arrival and review what to expect during the safari, which was a thoughtful touch. We couldn’t have asked for a better driver/guide than Priscus! He made our trip unforgettable—be sure to request him if booking. Not only was he a highly skilled driver, but he was also extremely knowledgeable about the animals, the terrain, and the camps. He shared fascinating stories and was flexible, tailoring our experience to align perfectly with our preferences (e.g., early morning game drives, downtime at each camp, and maximizing animal sightings). Learning how much we love coffee, Priscus always made sure we had to-go coffees waiting for us in the car. On our final night, he surprised us with a bush dinner to celebrate our honeymoon—such a thoughtful gesture. Spending ten days with someone as amazing as Priscus truly enhanced our journey. Don't hesitate—book your safari with Basecamp!

The resort is excellent. I only stayed for one night prior to my Kilimanjaro trek, and it was an ideal spot to relax before heading out. The dinner and breakfast were both fantastic, offering a buffet with a wide selection of dishes and fresh fruits. The bungalows are spacious with comfortable beds. The staff is incredibly kind and accommodating. I would definitely recommend this place!

From the moment we were picked up at the airport to our final drop-off, everything was smooth and perfectly planned. Our guide Jordan was both kind and extremely knowledgeable, while the cook served us fantastic meals every day. The wildlife sightings were incredible—lions, including cubs, elephants, cheetahs (one even jumped onto our vehicle!), hippos, birds, and so much more. The 4-day trip through Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro was truly unforgettable. Highly recommend this experience!

Dennis proved to be an amazing guide and driver. He consistently aimed to show us the highlights while being mindful of the wildlife. His ability to spot animals from great distances, paired with deep knowledge of the area and its creatures, was impressive, and he happily shared all of it with us. Additionally, Dennis was easily the most captivating storyteller! Absolutely recommended!

#hellonewyear

🗺️ Destination - ARUSHA Great food, kind people, and beautiful views only from Arusha. Enjoying my stay!

My experience with Ranger Safaris in Tanzania was absolutely incredible! I was blown away by the stunning beauty and remarkable diversity of the country. Special thanks go to Issa Juma, our extraordinary guide and driver. Issa shared his deep understanding of the "Big Five" mammals, detailing their habits, preferred habitats, and interactions with both other species and humans. He also pointed out various creatures like mongooses, hyenas, jackals, servals, and baboons. Truly fascinating insights. Since I have a keen interest in birds, I mentioned it to Issa, and WOW—he immediately began identifying and pointing out the birds around us. He used sight, sound, and habitat to identify them with ease. His sharp eye for spotting both mammals and birds was truly remarkable. Thanks to Issa, I was able to see and identify nearly 200 bird species on a safari primarily focused on animals and photography! He managed to cater to everyone’s interests without compromising the overall experience for me or my companions. Beyond that, Issa also taught us about local history, trees, plants, and much more. With his exceptional guidance, I was able to add 13 new bird species to my life list, which already includes over 4,000 species. His expertise and passion were simply impressive. Thank you, Issa, for making this trip so unforgettable!

We traveled to Tanzania for our honeymoon to enjoy a safari tour. Collins was our guide, and he was exceptional! He made us feel comfortable and welcomed, almost like being at home. We were lucky enough to see the Big Five animals, and even witnessed cheetahs as they hunted. Our camera captured some fantastic photos. I wholeheartedly recommend taking this tour with Collins! His hospitality was outstanding, and he turned the trip into a truly fun experience. By the end, we went from strangers to friends!

My wife and I experienced an incredible Private Tanzania safari with Ranger Safaris that exceeded all of our expectations. The staff we interacted with during the trip were exceptionally kind and accommodating. Every pickup and transfer was punctual and enjoyable. The accommodations selected for us struck the perfect balance—neither too basic nor excessively luxurious. From coffee plantations to tented camps, and the hotel in Arusha, everything was fantastic and thoughtfully varied. The true highlight of our first-ever safari was our guide, Daniel Nyamoga. Over the course of our 8-day journey from Arusha to the Serengeti, Daniel truly made this adventure remarkable. His deep knowledge of the animals, the region, and its history was impressive, and he patiently addressed all of our endless questions. No topic was off-limits. On top of being incredibly polite and helpful, Daniel made us feel as if we’d gained a lifelong friend. Just outstanding. If a safari is on your mind, go for it! Choose Tanzania and go with Ranger Safaris. And definitely, ask for Daniel by name—you won’t regret it! This trip couldn’t have been more perfect.