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

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

This was hands down the most incredible hiking trip I’ve ever experienced. I went with my boyfriend on a private tour of Kilimanjaro, and the level of service we received far exceeded what I expected for the price. Our group included 8 porters and 2 guides—one dedicated to each of us. The food each day was outstanding, better than many restaurants. The porters even set up a private bathroom, and we had a dinner table prepared for us every evening. It didn’t feel like hiking; it felt like pure luxury, making the trip even more enjoyable. This is my second time climbing Kilimanjaro with this company, and their service is extraordinary—I plan to come back every year!

We had a fantastic experience on our Lights on Africa Safaris Comfortable Wildlife & Honeymoon Safari. Noel and Huruma, our guides, ensured every moment was unforgettable during visits to Arusha, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park, and Serengeti National Park. We saw amazing wildlife, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, and giraffes. The accommodations were stunning—perfect for honeymooners—with cozy suites, beautiful views, and delicious food. I highly recommend this company to anyone seeking a nature-filled honeymoon adventure.

We were fortunate to have an expert guide named Isack who led us on an adventure of a lifetime. We embarked on a game drive spanning from the north to the south. We were lucky enough to witness all of the Big Five and even a wildebeest crossing. We nicknamed Isack "eagle-eye" because he could spot animals from afar, identify their gender, and tell if they were hunting or sleeping—he was incredible. I couldn't recommend him more. Most of the accommodations were excellent, and every staff member was so kind. We absolutely loved our trip.

This hotel was an unexpected delight! Nestled in a peaceful spot yet conveniently near everything we required. The rooms were chic and impeccably clean, and the staff provided service that was both warm and professional. We'll absolutely return on our next visit.

The staff are incredibly friendly, and the property itself is stunning. There’s a small shop onsite offering jewelry, souvenirs, and a limited selection of toiletries. I had a massage during my stay, and it was excellent. You can pay with USD or credit cards, which is convenient. If you're unable or unwilling to walk far, be sure to request a room with a lower number. The room had some universal outlets but none in the bathroom or near the bed. There was no sheet provided, only a comforter, and no hair conditioner was available. The ceiling air conditioning unit in my room didn’t function. Lunch service, listed as starting at noon, didn’t begin until 12:30pm, so be prepared for a flexible meal schedule. Also, the website mentioned a lunch buffet, but it ended up being a prix fixe menu. At dinner, I noticed that the butter at my table hadn't been changed, which was disappointing. Be cautious about billing as well—I found that I had been double charged for a meal. Their website promotes "sundowners by the lake," where you’re supposed to enjoy watching the sunset by the water, but that activity didn't seem to happen. Instead, you could sit on the lawn outside the restaurant and order drinks from the indoor bar. Despite these issues, the staff were wonderful and the grounds were lovely. However, there are definitely opportunities for improvement here.

My friends and I had an amazing time at Lake Duluti, Arusha. The guide was amazing and for the price 32usd. A whole 30 minutes in this beautiful scenery was worth it. #travel2026 #arusha

Our group stayed here the nights before and after completing the 7-day Machame route to Uhuru peak. The staff was fantastic—warm, welcoming, and accommodating to our large group. They greeted us with hibiscus drinks and hot towels, allowed us to store items during our trek, and made sure everything ran smoothly. The property itself is stunning, featuring a beautiful pool and a restaurant serving excellent buffet-style meals, including local dishes and fresh veggies. The rooms were spacious, spotless, and felt quite new. The team was incredibly flexible with early or late checkouts, which was very convenient, and happy to assist with arranging taxis or transportation. Everyone on staff was so kind, offering helpful recommendations and working seamlessly with our Kilimanjaro trek operator to handle things like equipment rental and our initial briefing at the hotel. Thank you—we can’t wait to come back!

We had an amazing time at Mount Meru Arusha. Everything about the experience was great. The thrill, the race and the vibe was over the roof. Take me back for sureeeeee #arusha #quadbike

Our stay at Planet Lodges was fantastic! We arrived ahead of schedule and were greeted with a refreshing towel and tasty drinks. The room was immaculate, and the staff's attentiveness was exceptional—they were incredibly friendly and even shared a few new words with us. It was genuinely a delightful experience!

Brina and Jaffar provided outstanding service. From the moment we arrived to when we left, they were both attentive and incredibly kind. We truly enjoyed our meal! This is my third visit to Gran Melia, and I absolutely love it.

I’ve traveled extensively with various tour companies, but Friends of Africa Family Safaris really stood out. The Kilimanjaro climb was organized in a way that surpassed all my expectations—the meals were excellent, and they constantly monitored climbers' health (like blood oxygen and pulse rate). I highly recommend them and plan to book with them again soon.

The staff was incredibly attentive. Whenever we needed something, like an extra blanket or an early packed breakfast, they responded promptly to assist. The bed was exceptionally cozy. The food at the onsite restaurant was well-prepared and flavorful. The menu was straightforward, and during our two-day stay, we sampled three out of four main dishes, all of which were delicious and suited our tastes perfectly. The included breakfast was outstanding, offering both hot and cold options. A few minor downsides include the less-than-ideal area just outside the hotel gate. The short unpaved, uneven road can be dirty, and there were some questionable individuals around when walking. Additionally, the wifi in our room (201) was nearly unusable, although going down to the lobby or restaurant provided a reliable connection. All in all, our stay at Tulia was a pleasant and comfortable experience. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

We stayed here for one night after a week at Grumeti Reserve. The service and meals were outstanding. Agness, our attentive butler, had breakfast prepared for us bright and early at 5 a.m. due to our morning flight. The grounds are stunningly landscaped. Highly recommend this as a fantastic option in Arusha.

After years of saving and dreaming, my best friend and I finally embarked on our ultimate adventure—a Safari in Africa! As two women traveling far from home, feeling safe was a top priority for us. We're seasoned travelers with plenty of experience abroad, but still, this was something special. Friends personally recommended Jombi and Tanzania Outdoor Adventures, and we couldn’t have made a better choice! From planning the trip to booking our internal flights and organizing a post-safari Zanzibar getaway, they handled everything seamlessly. And the Safari itself? Absolutely flawless! Jombi’s experience, knowledge, and kindness made the entire journey unforgettable. By the end, it was clear we’d made the perfect decision going with him and his team. While other groups seemed clumsy or constrained, we had the advantage of a private safari. This allowed us the freedom to spend as much or as little time at each stop as we wanted. The Land Cruiser was incredibly comfortable, which was essential given the hours spent driving. Thanks to Jombi’s sharp eye, we saw every single animal on our wishlist—and many more surprises we hadn't dreamed of. His encyclopedic knowledge enriched the experience, as we constantly bombarded him with questions about wildlife and the country, turning our safari into both a visual and educational adventure. From the lodges to every part of our itinerary, everything ran smoothly. Jombi knew everyone and everything, adding a level of comfort and safety we deeply appreciated. By the end of our trip, it felt like we didn’t just gain a guide but also a friend in Tanzania. I can’t recommend Jombi and Tanzania Outdoor Adventures highly enough! We’ve already spread the word to friends and family. Without hesitation, we agreed that any return trip—especially one with our partners and children—would only happen with Tanzania Outdoor Adventures. Truly, this was an experience of a lifetime!

The property grounds are absolutely stunning. We stayed in Room 207, which had a pleasant view of the rooftop gardens, but the mountain view would definitely be the ultimate choice. That said, the staff, from security to wait staff, lobby attendants, and management, were exceptionally kind, helpful, and professional. We spent three full days at this hotel, which boasts acres of coffee trees in areas where most places would likely build additional structures. Strolling along the winding pathways through gardens, waterfalls, and a peaceful serpentine water feature was incredibly relaxing. For bird enthusiasts, we spotted 15 new species on our first day alone. Don't miss the Sanaa Craftsman workshop on-site—it's truly fascinating. The friendly artisans there include weavers, glass blowers, beaders, and metal craftsmen, and they’re always happy to engage with visitors. The rooftop restaurant and bar are not to be missed, offering unmatched views of Mt. Meru and breathtaking sunsets. Arnold, our server, was attentive, kind, and personable. Shout-out to Adam H from guest services as well, who was enthusiastic and excited to show us the Chef’s Garden! This place is a true gem. Look no further for a peaceful and exceptional home base while traveling!

We truly had the most amazing experience! We encountered numerous animals. Collin and Loth were incredibly kind and handled every detail with care. They were always attentive and supportive. Our four days on safari were absolutely unforgettable and will stay with us forever!

Choosing to embark on a 5-day trek up Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route turned out to be the perfect decision, and Northern Masailand Safaris exceeded our expectations. The hut accommodation allowed me to get proper rest, which was crucial before the summit day. The guides were incredibly patient and supportive, encouraging everyone as we set off for the summit at night from Kibo Hut. Reaching Uhuru Peak through Gilman's Point was an indescribable experience. We always felt secure, knowing the team had emergency oxygen, a medical kit, and highly experienced guides. The breakfasts provided were clean, delicious, and satisfying. What stood out even more was witnessing their fair treatment of the porters. This trek was about more than just reaching the peak of a mountain—it was about pushing beyond personal boundaries, and ««N.M.S»» was the ideal partner for such a journey.

In March 2025, my husband and I traveled to Tanzania. My first interaction with The Tanzanite Experience came at a small jewelry counter in our hotel, the Ngorongoro Lodge (Meliá Collection). My visit was brief as I was searching for Tanzanite earrings. The sales representative expertly suggested a pair of elegant drop earrings. Once they were on, the sale was immediately finalized. She efficiently handled all the paperwork and was an absolute pleasure to work with. Fast forward to July 2025, when we were back home in the US. I decided to find a pendant to complement my earrings. Through several email exchanges, I collaborated with Junaid and the incredible team at The Tanzanite Experience. I chose a loose stone, and the team crafted a beautiful pendant based on a design I provided via a photo. The entire process, from the first email to the arrival of the package at my door, was a complete joy! Junaid’s professionalism, friendliness, and timely communication made the experience seamless. My only regret is not being able to share this process in person. Nonetheless, I wholeheartedly recommend The Tanzanite Experience! They are experts and a leading authority on Tanzanite, particularly in Tanzania. At no point did I feel pressured or subjected to any form of upselling. Additionally, their pricing is extremely fair, especially compared to the US market.

The tour with Naomi was truly fantastic. She shared so much information, and the fun coincidence of us having the same name made it even more enjoyable and memorable. :) Afterward, Happiness and Jakob prepared the most beautiful and delicious coffee for us. Big thanks to everyone!

We booked our safari through Travelbag without knowing it would be managed by Ranger Safaris, and we’re so happy it was. Julius met us just outside Arusha to go over the details, and the next day we were introduced to our guide, Wilfred. Our unforgettable 5-day safari covered Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti, and it truly was the trip of a lifetime. We’re especially thankful to Wilfred, who took outstanding care of us, shared so much knowledge, helped us see everything on our list, and even assisted at the airstrip. He had a great sense of humor, often teasing me for failing to spot animals. What stood out most, though, was his genuine love for the animals and for Tanzania. Based on other reviews, it’s clear Ranger Safaris only hires top-notch guides. Wilfred, we can’t thank you enough!

Our family of five embarked on a trip with Benson Safari, and it was an experience filled with happiness and delightful surprises—not just from the awe-inspiring natural beauty, but also from the incredible people we encountered along the way. Right from the start, the booking process was seamless and worry-free. Grace and Benson were wonderfully patient and professional, taking the time to understand our needs and designing a tailor-made itinerary that suited our schedule perfectly. Since our journey included both Kenya and Tanzania, we worked with different guides in each country, and all of them proved to be fantastic companions. A special shout-out goes to Edmund and Obi, who impressed us with their knowledge, friendliness, patience, and wisdom. If you get the chance, I highly encourage you to engage with your guides as much as possible. Through conversations and shared experiences, we came to appreciate not only their skills as tour guides but also their personal depth. They provided insights that saved us from unnecessary inconveniences, and their exceptional ability to spot wildlife made every game drive truly unforgettable. This was our first-ever safari, and it far surpassed our expectations. As we said throughout the trip: we’ll absolutely return for another safari in the future, and when we do, Benson Safari will be our top choice once again.