Arusha

Beneath the peaks of Meru and Kilimanjaro lies Arusha — a charming gateway to safari, coffee estates, and unforgettable adventure. Arusha is where safaris start and Kilimanjaro rises

Explore Arusha

A Softer First Step into the Wild

Many safaris begin without a gentle introduction to Africa’s wild. Travelers often rush straight into vast, crowded reserves, missing the chance to ease into the rhythm of the wilderness. The start of such a remarkable journey can feel overwhelming — when what’s truly needed is a softer, more intimate first encounter

Where the Wild Begins — Quietly

Arusha National Park offers the perfect beginning. Sprawled along the slopes of Mount Meru, it provides an accessible, uncrowded introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife — where giraffe, buffalo, antelope, and over 400 bird species roam against a dramatic volcanic backdrop. At the shimmering Momella Lakes, flocks of flamingos gather year-round, best experienced from the quiet vantage point of a scenic canoe safari. It’s a softer, more intimate welcome to the wild — and the ideal way to begin or end your safari journey.

Where to Stay

Select from luxurious hideaways to conveniently located airport stays — each thoughtfully chosen to guarantee a comfortable and memorable experience.

Forodhani House Lamu

Lamu, Kenya

Saruni Mara

Masai Mara, Kenya

Mahali Mzuri

Masai Mara, Kenya

Ayuterra Resort

Bali, Indonesia

Amora Ubud Boutique Villas

Bali, Indonesia

Pramana Watu Kurung Resort

Bali, Indonesia

Sanctuary Olonana

Masai Mara, Kenya

Kitich

Laikipia, Kenya

Malindi at a glance

Dubbed East Africa’s safari capital, Arusha blends vibrant city life with rich culture and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether embarking on a wildlife adventure or exploring local traditions, Arusha promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Key Facts

Perched at 1,400 meters above sea level, Arusha enjoys a year-round temperate climate and serves as the perfect base for adventures to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Mount Kilimanjaro.

DEMOGRAPHIC

City population of 617,631

GEOGRAPHICAL SIZE

Covers roughly 270 km².

BEST TIME TO GO

Jne to October

Montane Forests

Lush, green forests dominated by fig trees and moss-covered trees

Savannah Grasslands

Open plains, particularly in the northern part of the park

Momella Lakes

Seven shallow, alkaline lakes attracting thousands flamingos and waterbirds

Giraffes

The park is renowned for having the largest population of giraffes in the

Primates

The forests are inhabited by black-and-white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys

Elephants

They are present, particularly in the forested areas, though less commonly seen than in other Tanzanian parks

Arusha weather

Malindi experiences a dry season from July to October and January to March with sunny, ideal conditions for beaches and marine activities, a green season in April to June and November to December with occasional rains and lush scenery, and transition periods at the edges of the rainy months offering mixed but generally pleasant weather for exploration.

DRY SEASON

June – October

GREEN SEASON

March–May

TRANSITION SEASON

Jan–Feb

Arusha Experiences

Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Lake Duluti region with experiences that awaken all your senses. From outdoor adventures and landmark visits to spa treatments, cooking classes, and Swahili lessons, our team will craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Ready to take a life-changing Arusha Holiday?

Discover Arusha, East Africa’s safari capital — from wild encounters at Arusha National Park to adventures across the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, and Lake Duluti. Let ESCI Travel & Holidays craft your personalized Tanzanian journey of a lifetime

Custom Safaris

Majestic Horizons of Tanzania | From flamingo-filled lakes to the Endless Serengeti plains.

Overview Disclaimer Discover the best of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit on this 7-day safari adventure. Journey from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, where majestic elephants roam among ancient baobabs, then explore Lake Manyara, home to flamingos and tree-climbing lions. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder teeming with wildlife, before experiencing the legendary Serengeti, where vast savannahs come alive with predators and prey. Enjoy daily guided game drives, comfortable lodges, and the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and unforgettable African wildlife encounters Prices are subject to change based on accommodation availability and applicable government regulations. Children aged between 0-2 years are FOC Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult sharing rate when sharing with adult. Children aged 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their own separate room. Children above 12 years are recognized as adults Discover the best of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit on this 7-day safari adventure. Journey from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, where majestic elephants roam among ancient baobabs, then explore Lake Manyara, home to flamingos and tree-climbing lions. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder teeming with wildlife, before experiencing the legendary Serengeti, where vast savannahs come alive with predators and prey. Enjoy daily guided game drives, comfortable lodges, and the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and unforgettable African wildlife encounters Prices are subject to change based on accommodation availability and applicable government regulations. Children aged between 0-2 years are FOC Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult sharing rate when sharing with adult. Children aged 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their own separate room. Children above 12 years are recognized as adults

Duration

8 days 7 nights

Group Size

6 people

Predator’s Path: 6 Days tracking Big cats, Vast herds, and Africa’s rawest wild spaces.

Overview Disclaimer Experience the very best of Tanzania on this 6-day safari, exploring its most celebrated national parks and breathtaking scenery. Begin in Arusha, where you’ll settle into comfortable accommodations and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this gateway town. Your journey kicks off in Tarangire National Park, renowned for elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and abundant birdlife. Enjoy guided game drives across diverse habitats, spotting giraffes, lions, and elusive leopards while learning about the park’s ecology from expert guides. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the savannah, return to your lodge and unwind to the sounds of the African bush. Travel onward toward the Serengeti, with an optional stop at the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. In the Serengeti, immerse yourself in endless plains, abundant predators, and the seasonal wildebeest migration, with morning and afternoon game drives offering unforgettable wildlife encounters. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where zebras, wildebeest, elephants, and over 500 bird species thrive within this enclosed sanctuary. End your adventure at Lake Manyara National Park, home to flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and lush scenery. Throughout the safari, enjoy comfortable lodges, guided excursions, and immersive encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, leaving you with memories of Tanzania’s untamed beauty and unforgettable landscapes. Prices are subject to change based on accommodation availability and applicable government regulations. Children aged between 0-2 years are FOC Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult sharing rate when sharing with adult. Children aged 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their own separate room. Children above 12 years are recognized as adults Experience the very best of Tanzania on this 6-day safari, exploring its most celebrated national parks and breathtaking scenery. Begin in Arusha, where you’ll settle into comfortable accommodations and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this gateway town. Your journey kicks off in Tarangire National Park, renowned for elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and abundant birdlife. Enjoy guided game drives across diverse habitats, spotting giraffes, lions, and elusive leopards while learning about the park’s ecology from expert guides. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the savannah, return to your lodge and unwind to the sounds of the African bush. Travel onward toward the Serengeti, with an optional stop at the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. In the Serengeti, immerse yourself in endless plains, abundant predators, and the seasonal wildebeest migration, with morning and afternoon game drives offering unforgettable wildlife encounters. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where zebras, wildebeest, elephants, and over 500 bird species thrive within this enclosed sanctuary. End your adventure at Lake Manyara National Park, home to flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and lush scenery. Throughout the safari, enjoy comfortable lodges, guided excursions, and immersive encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, leaving you with memories of Tanzania’s untamed beauty and unforgettable landscapes. Prices are subject to change based on accommodation availability and applicable government regulations. Children aged between 0-2 years are FOC Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult sharing rate when sharing with adult. Children aged 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their own separate room. Children above 12 years are recognized as adults

Duration

6 days 5 nights

Group Size

6 people

FAQ

A Tanzania safari is possible year-round, but timing matters. June to October is ideal for the Serengeti wildebeest migration, though it can be unpredictable and crowded. For fewer crowds, choose areas away from the migration. The wettest months, March to May, may limit safari experiences.

Tanzania is the ultimate safari destination, offering unmatched wildlife experiences and endless adventure. With three main safari circuits — the popular Northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater), the Southern circuit (Nyerere and Ruaha), and the off-the-beaten-track Western circuit (Katavi and Lake Tanganyika’s chimpanzee reserves) — there’s more to see than one trip could cover. Adventurers can also summit Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, from the Tanzanian side.

Tanzania is the ultimate safari destination, offering unparalleled wildlife experiences and endless adventures. Explore three distinct circuits: the famous Northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater), the Southern circuit (Nyerere and Ruaha), or the off-the-beaten-path Western circuit (Katavi and Lake Tanganyika’s chimpanzee reserves). Adventurers can also conquer Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, from the Tanzanian side

Tanzania’s tourism industry is professional and safaris are generally very safe. While petty crime exists in cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha, it’s usually limited to persistent touts. Staying firm and aware is enough to stay safe, and most safari itineraries spend little time in urban areas, so it’s rarely a concern

Tanzania is a top safari destination, with many reputable operators offering similar packages. Differences usually come down to guide expertise and vehicle quality. For specialized experiences like walking safaris or fly camping, research operators that cater to your interests. Compare packages and prices on SafariBookings.com, and always check reviews to gauge reliability and guide quality

Featured Property

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge — a serene retreat among Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, set in the foothills of Mount Meru.

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