Arusha

Nestled between the towering peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, Arusha is the vibrant "Safari Capital" of Tanzania. As the essential gateway to the Northern Circuit, this bustling town offers a perfect blend of lush highland scenery, rich Maasai culture, and the warm, gracious spirit of the Tanzanian people.

Details

Arusha is more than just a transit point; it is the heartbeat of the Tanzanian safari experience. Located at the foot of Mount Meru (the fifth-highest peak in Africa) and a stone’s throw from Mount Kilimanjaro, the town serves as the starting line and the finish line for almost every northern adventure. Its high altitude provides a cool, temperate climate and a lush, green landscape that stands in beautiful contrast to the golden savannas you will encounter later. It is here that travelers first transition from the modern world into the rhythm of the African bush.

Arusha is a “melting pot” of culture and commerce. After landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), visitors find themselves in a region where tradition meets the modern world:

Cultural Interactions: The local markets are alive with the scent of spices and the vibrant colors of Maasai shukas. It is an ideal place to engage with local artisans and learn about the diverse ethnic groups that call the Arusha Region home.
The Launch Pad: Whether you are preparing for a 7-day trek up Kilimanjaro or a drive into the Serengeti, Arusha provides the essential gear, supplies, and briefings needed for a successful journey.
Scenic Sightseeing: For those with a day to spare, the town offers beautiful coffee plantation tours, hiking trails on the slopes of Mt. Meru, and visits to the Arusha National Park, where the Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater await.

While Arusha is known as an urban hub, the surrounding Arusha Region is a massive expanse of 14,500 square miles dominated by dramatic volcanic topography:

Highland Biodiversity: The immediate outskirts are home to Giraffe, Buffalo, and Zebra, as well as the acrobatic Black-and-white Colobus monkeys that thrive in the montane forests.
The Lake Influence: Nearby alkaline lakes often host shimmering fringes of Flamingos, providing a preview of the birdlife found further west in Manyara.
Volcanic Peaks: The skyline is defined by extinct and dormant volcanoes, creating a rugged and fertile terrain that supports some of Africa’s best coffee and flower farms.

Seasonal Highlights

Month	Season	Weather	Wildlife Sightings	Rec.
Jan	Green Season	60 - 85 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Feb	Green Season	60 - 85 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Mar	Green Season	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Apr	Green Season	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
May	Northward Migration	56 - 81 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Jun	Beginning of Dry Season	56 - 81 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Jul	Dry Season	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Aug	Dry Season	55 - 81 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Sep	Dry Season	55 - 81 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Oct	Dry Season	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Nov	Southward Migration	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes
Dec	Beginning of Green Season	60 - 83 F Mostly sunny with few showers	Cultural Tours, Swimming, Spa, Golf, Charitable Visits, Sightseeing	Yes