If you’re planning a safari in Tanzania, your journey will almost certainly start in Arusha — the heart and soul of East Africa’s wildlife circuit. Nestled beneath the snow-capped peaks of Mount Meru and offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days, Arusha is more than a stopover — it’s the perfect place to begin your African safari adventure.
From here, you’re only hours away from some of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world.
Arusha sits at the center of the “Northern Safari Circuit” — the most popular and wildlife-rich region in Tanzania. Starting your safari here means easy access to:
| National Park | Distance from Arusha | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arusha National Park | ~30 km | ~45 minutes | Mount Meru, colobus monkeys, walking safaris |
| Tarangire National Park | ~120 km | ~2 hours | Elephants, baobabs, birdlife |
| Lake Manyara National Park | ~126 km | ~2 hours | Tree-climbing lions, flamingos |
| Ngorongoro Crater | ~190 km | ~3-4 hours | Big Five, scenic crater views |
| Serengeti National Park | ~335 km | ~6-8 hours (road) / ~1 hour (flight) | Wildebeest migration, predators |
Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or embarking on a multi-park safari circuit, Arusha is the perfect launchpad.
Before you even leave the city, you can enjoy a taste of Tanzania’s wild beauty. Arusha National Park offers:
Black-and-white colobus monkeys swinging in the treetops.
Canoe safaris on Momella Lakes.
Walking safaris on the slopes of Mount Meru.
This makes it a great first-day adventure before longer multi-park safaris.
Arusha is the safari traveler’s dream for smooth logistics:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) — 45 minutes from Arusha, with direct international flights from Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
Arusha Airport (ARK) — handles domestic flights to the Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Ruaha.
From here, you can reach your next destination by light aircraft or safari vehicle, depending on your itinerary.
Arusha is more than a transit hub — it’s a comfortable place to relax and prepare for your safari.
Accommodation: From luxury lodges and boutique hotels to affordable guesthouses.
Dining: Local and international restaurants, coffee shops, and rooftop bars.
Souvenirs & Crafts: Maasai markets, Tanzanite gemstone stores, and local art galleries.
Cultural Tours: Visit coffee plantations, Maasai villages, and museums.
Central location for the Northern Safari Circuit.
Easy access to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.
Direct international airport nearby.
Accommodations and safari logistics all in one place.
Pre-safari day trips to Arusha National Park.
