Arusha Tanzania — what you need to know before your safari starts

Most travellers arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), are picked up by their guide and drive directly to the first park. Arusha is then little more than a brief stopover. That is understandable — but you miss something.

Arusha is a city of 400,000 people, built at the foot of Mount Meru (4,566m), with views of Kilimanjaro (5,895m) on clear days. It is Tanzania's most cosmopolitan city, home to the East African Community headquarters.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

JRO lies 46 kilometres east of the city centre — allow 45 minutes to an hour driving, depending on traffic. Collin or Jonas always pick you up. Do not take a taxi that spontaneously offers itself at the exit; this is one of the few places in Tanzania where scams occur.

Besides JRO there is also Arusha Airport (ARK), a smaller airfield near the centre for internal flights. If you are doing a fly-in safari directly to a park, you will usually depart from ARK.

Where to stay in Arusha?

For one night: Arusha Coffee Lodge is the classic choice — on a coffee plantation on the edge of town, 15 minutes from JRO. Quiet, green and a good way to get into the Tanzania mood.

If you have an early internal flight the next day: Impala Hotel in the centre is practical — close to ARK, good restaurant.

What to do in Arusha?

The Maasai Market (open Tuesdays and Fridays) is the most authentic souvenir shopping experience in Tanzania. No fixed prices — negotiating is standard. Take your time and do not buy from the first stall.

Arusha National Park is the most underrated park in Tanzania: giraffes, zebras and flamingos less than an hour from the city centre. No Big Five, but Meru gives the finest view of Kilimanjaro in the country. Half-day trips are possible.

The morning before departure

If you depart early the next day: Collin or Jonas will arrange everything. They know the best breakfast spots and the back roads that avoid the park departure queue. Trust them on this.

One practical point: if you want to buy malaria tablets you have not yet taken, Arusha sells them cheaper than in the Netherlands or Belgium. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also available if you forgot them.

Arusha is not a destination in itself. But it is also not nothing. Give the city one night to welcome you into Tanzania.