The first thing that strikes you when you arrive in Arusha is the Masaai. Going about their daily lives, adorned in bold colours, they ride their bikes, sell hand-made beadwork and herd cattle, whilst the vibrant buses share the roads with cows and goats. You are in a true African city and although it is not pretty in itself, it is surrounded by stunning scenery and full of lively, smiley people.

Founded by German colonialists in 1900, Arusha is now the centre for commerce and safari operations in northern Tanzania. Here you will find markets on most of the street corners, where ladies sell big bunches of bananas and avocados seem astoundingly large. Snugly set in the foothills of Mount Meru, it is surrounded by some of Africa’s most fascinating parks and attractions.

The city is surrounded by hundreds of flower farms and coffee plantations, making for an ideal stay just outside of the city. Many working farms in the area have opened small guest cottages, our favourite in the area being Arusha Coffee Lodge. Here you can watch coffee being roasted and taste the aromatic blends, as well as exploring the grounds and relaxing in the pool.

Arusha even has its own national park which is often overlooked by safari-goers, but it does have some beautiful scenery in its peaceful surroundings. Wildlife here is scarce, but there are leopard and hyena at dusk and dawn and a few elephants, buffalos and giraffes.

Arusha is a good hub from which to explore the national parks of northern Tanzania and a great place to start getting an insight into the local people and cultures. 

Our favourite place to stay in Arusha is either Onsea House or Arusha Coffee Lodge.