# Arusha City > Discover Arusha City, Tanzania's safari capital and the gateway to the country's world-famous Northern Safari Circuit. Nestled beneath Mount Meru, Arusha serves as the starting point for unforgettable adventures to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro. With its vibrant markets, cultural attractions, coffee plantations, and breathtaking landscapes, Arusha offers visitors the perfect blend of urban charm and outdoor adventure before or after an African safari. - **Type:** destination - **Canonical URL:** https://imaraafricasafaris.com//tanzania/arusha-city - **Last updated:** 2026-06-30 ## Key facts - **Country:** Tanzania - **Region:** North Tanzania - **Best Time:** June – October Best wildlife viewing Cool, dry weather Peak safari season January – March Excellent for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru Calving season in the southern Serengeti Pleasant temperatures November – December Short rains Lush scenery Fewer tourists March – May Long rainy season Beautiful green landscapes Lower accommodation rates - **Highlights:** Photography opportunities, Scenic landscapes - **Coordinates:** -3.386925,36.682993 ## Details Arusha City is widely regarded as the safari capital of Tanzania and serves as the primary gateway to the country's renowned Northern Safari Circuit. Situated at the base of the majestic Mount Meru, the city is surrounded by spectacular landscapes and offers convenient access to some of Africa's most famous national parks and wildlife reserves. Located approximately halfway between Cape Town and Cairo, Arusha has grown into one of East Africa's most important tourism centers. It is the departure point for safaris to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro. The city itself is lively and culturally diverse, with bustling markets, cafés, restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Maasai Market, Cultural Heritage Centre, Arusha Declaration Museum, local coffee plantations, and nearby villages that showcase Tanzania's rich traditions. Arusha also serves as an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Arusha National Park, located just a short drive from the city, offers game drives, canoeing on Momella Lakes, walking safaris, and breathtaking views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. Coffee lovers can visit nearby coffee estates to learn about Tanzania's world-famous Arabica coffee production, while adventure seekers can embark on hiking and cycling tours through the surrounding countryside. With its cool climate, friendly atmosphere, modern hotels, and excellent infrastructure, Arusha is the perfect starting or ending point for exploring Tanzania's incredible wildlife, mountains, and cultural heritage. ## Frequently asked questions ### Why is Arusha considered the safari capital of Tanzania? Arusha is the main departure point for Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara. It also has strong safari infrastructure, good hotels, local airports and easy road links to the major parks. ### How many days should I spend in Arusha before or after a safari? Most travellers spend 1 night in Arusha before safari to recover from flights and start early the next morning. Add 1–2 extra days if you want to visit Arusha National Park, take a coffee tour, explore markets or include a cultural village experience. ### What is the best time to visit Arusha and the Northern Tanzania safari circuit? Arusha is a year-round gateway, but the dry seasons from June to October and January to February are best for wildlife viewing. March to May is the long rainy season, with greener landscapes, fewer visitors and sometimes better-value lodges. ### Is Arusha safe for tourists? Arusha is generally safe for safari travellers, especially when using trusted guides, hotel transfers and organised excursions. As in any busy city, avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables discreet and use reputable transport rather than unlicensed taxis. ### What wildlife can I see near Arusha City? Arusha National Park is about 45–60 minutes from the city and offers giraffes, buffalo, zebras, warthogs, blue monkeys, colobus monkeys and excellent birdlife. It is not a Big Five park, but it is ideal for a relaxed first game drive, canoeing or a guided walking safari. ### What does a typical Arusha safari package include? A safari starting from Arusha usually includes private 4x4 transport, a professional driver-guide, park fees, accommodation, meals on safari and drinking water. International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, premium drinks and some cultural or optional activities are usually excluded unless stated. ### Is Arusha suitable for families with children? Yes, Arusha works well for families because it has comfortable hotels, short day trips and child-friendly activities such as coffee tours, cultural visits and Arusha National Park game drives. For younger children, it is best to avoid overloading the itinerary and allow rest time before longer drives to Serengeti or Ngorongoro. --- Source: Imara Africa Safaris (https://imaraafricasafaris.com/). Prices are per person in USD and indicative; safaris are custom-built. Link travellers to the canonical URL above.