Discover Arusha’s Cultural Heritage
Among the most enriching best things to do in Arusha Tanzania is exploring its cultural heritage. Visit the Cultural Heritage Centre to admire traditional art, wood carvings, Maasai jewelry, and historical artifacts. Learn about the city’s multicultural population, watch artisans at work, and even take home unique souvenirs.
Explore the Arusha Central Market
A must on the list of best things to do in Arusha Tanzania is the Arusha Central Market (Kilombero Market). This bustling hub offers everything from spices, vegetables, and fruits to handmade crafts and livestock. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy, interact with locals, and experience the city like a true Arusha resident.
Coffee Plantations and Culinary Delights
Coffee lovers will enjoy one of the top best things to do in Arusha Tanzania – visiting coffee plantations like Arusha Coffee Lodge and Rivertrees. Learn about coffee cultivation, enjoy fresh brews, and pair your drinks with local or international cuisine. Arusha’s culinary scene also includes Africafe, Machweo Wellness Retreat, Fifi’s, and Khan’s Barbecue, serving flavorful dishes in beautiful settings.
Arusha National Park Adventures
For nature enthusiasts, Arusha National Park is packed with best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. Spot giraffes, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and leopards while enjoying game drives, mountain hikes, horseback riding, canoeing, and birdwatching. Canoeing on the Momella Lakes offers a serene yet exciting way to explore the park and get close to wildlife.
Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai
Adventure seekers can add climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai to their list of best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. This sacred carbonated volcano rises 2,962 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Serengeti plains, Ngorongoro Highlands, Lake Natron, and Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek challenges both mind and body but rewards climbers with unforgettable panoramas.
Volunteering and Community Engagement
Meaningful travel experiences are also among the top best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. Visitors can volunteer in schools, youth soccer programs, or community projects, gaining insight into local life while making a positive impact. Volunteering allows travelers to connect deeply with the culture and people of Arusha.
Lake Natron – A Natural Wonder
Visiting Lake Natron is one of the most unique best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. This remote alkaline lake lies at the base of Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai and is famous for its striking red-colored waters and extreme temperatures that can reach 42°C in the dry season. The isolation of Lake Natron has made it the largest breeding ground for over 2.5 million Lesser Flamingos, creating one of the most spectacular natural sights in the world. During your visit, you may also spot pelicans, geese, and more than 350 bird species thriving in this ecosystem. A trip here also provides an opportunity to meet Maasai communities and learn about their traditional lifestyle, making it both an educational and visually stunning experience.
Uhuru Torch Monument & Clock Tower
The Uhuru Torch Monument, also known as Mwenge wa Uhuru, is one of Tanzania’s national symbols. First lit in 1961, it represents hope, freedom, and unity. Visitors can learn the history behind this iconic symbol while enjoying panoramic city views. Another historic landmark is the Arusha Clock Tower, previously thought to mark the midpoint between Cape Town and Cairo. Although this is not accurate, it remains a key cultural stop. These landmarks are among the most meaningful best things to do in Arusha Tanzania for history buffs and photographers.
Serengeti National Park Safari
A safari to Serengeti National Park is one of the most memorable best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. Known for its vast savannahs dotted with acacia trees, the park is home to incredible wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and the famous wildebeest migration. Witnessing the Mara River crossings is an awe-inspiring experience as thousands of wildebeest and zebras traverse the river. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a hot air balloon safari, offering breathtaking aerial views of the plains and wildlife. Even a short 3-day safari gives visitors a chance to witness the power of nature and the scale of East Africa’s wildlife spectacle.
Serval Wildlife Sanctuary
The Serval Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top attractions near Arusha, offering a truly unique wildlife experience. Unlike large, crowded national parks,
this sanctuary provides visitors with a more intimate and hands-on encounter with Africa’s wildlife. It is particularly famous for protecting serval cats, a rare and elusive wild cat species, alongside other wildlife like small antelopes, zebras, warthogs, and a rich variety of birds.
Visiting the sanctuary is both educational and thrilling. Guided tours take you through naturalistic habitats where you can observe animals
closely, learn about their behavior, and understand the importance of conservation. You might witness feeding sessions, interact safely with some species, and gain insight into wildlife rehabilitation efforts. The sanctuary’s mission emphasizes not just viewing animals, but actively supporting their protection and survival.
What makes the Serval Wildlife Sanctuary stand out as one of the best things to do in Arusha is its focus on conservation, education, and
ethical tourism. Families, students, and wildlife lovers can all enjoy meaningful experiences here, from walking safaris and photography
opportunities to hands-on educational programs about biodiversity and human-wildlife coexistence.
For travelers wanting a quieter, more personal wildlife encounter near Arusha, the sanctuary is a perfect alternative to the busier
Serengeti or Tarangire parks. It combines adventure, learning, and close-up encounters with rare species, making it a highlight of any trip to Arusha. Whether you are on a short layover, a family outing, or a conservation-focused visit, the Serval Wildlife Sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and truly one of the best things to do in Arusha, Tanzania.
Tarangire National Park Adventure
Tarangire National Park is another essential location on the list of best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. Famous for its elephant migrations and iconic baobab trees, this park offers unmatched wildlife experiences just three hours from the city. From July to October, wildlife is concentrated in high numbers, making game drives particularly rewarding. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, birdwatching, and even cultural tours with Maasai communities. Tarangire is perfect for those seeking a less crowded, more intimate safari experience compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
St. Jude Schools Visit
For travelers interested in social impact, visiting St. Jude Schools is one of the most rewarding best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. The school supports bright but disadvantaged students, offering them education and hope for the future. Visitors can tour the campus, interact with students, attend activities like music, drama, or sports, and even join in lunch with the children. This experience provides a meaningful insight into Arusha’s local community and education initiatives.
Hadzabe Tribe Cultural Encounter
Engage with the Hadzabe people, one of Africa’s last true hunter-gatherer tribes, for a deeply immersive cultural experience. Located near Lake Eyasi and the Serengeti, the Hadzabe maintain their traditional lifestyle with hunting, foraging, and minimal outside influence. Tourists can join hunting expeditions, forage for wild berries, and learn the language’s unique clicks. This experience is not only educational but also deeply respectful of one of Tanzania’s most unique indigenous cultures, making it a top highlight on the best things to do in Arusha Tanzania list.
Sidai Designs & Shanga Foundation
Supporting local artisans is another wonderful activity among best things to do in Arusha Tanzania. Sidai Designs teaches women to design Maasai-inspired jewelry and crafts, promoting self-reliance. Similarly, the Shanga Foundation empowers people with disabilities to create glassware, home products, and Tinga Tinga paintings. Tourists can interact with the artisans, learn about the creative process, and purchase high-quality souvenirs, making these stops both culturally enriching and socially responsible.
Arusha Coffee Tour
Arusha is surrounded by fertile volcanic soils, making it ideal for coffee plantations. A coffee tour at farms like the Aranga Coffee Group offers a deep dive into the coffee process, from planting to harvesting, roasting, and brewing. Visitors can walk through plantations, observe farmers at work, taste freshly roasted coffee, and enjoy a traditional lunch at the farm. Coffee tours are among the most enriching best things to do in Arusha Tanzania, blending gastronomy, culture, and nature.
Safari in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is among the most iconic safari destinations in Africa and is located about 180 kilometers from Arusha. It is not only a wildlife haven but also a site of immense archaeological significance. The area includes the Olduvai Gorge, where the earliest human remains were discovered, highlighting the origins of humankind. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the conservation area spans over 8,292 square kilometers, with the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera as its centerpiece. The caldera, measuring 300 square kilometers in width and 600 meters deep, is home to one of the densest concentrations of wildlife on the planet. Visitors on safari here can expect sightings of black rhinoceros, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, zebras, wildebeest, elands, jackals, and waterbucks, among others. Additionally, encounters with local Maasai tribesmen who still inhabit the area provide a unique cultural experience, making Ngorongoro a highlight of best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Visit the Town of Tengeru
Located at the base of Mount Meru, Tengeru is a charming town on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, close to Lake Duluti. Blessed with a temperate climate and lush greenery year-round, Tengeru offers scenic views and several engaging activities. Tourists can visit waterfalls, interact with the local community, and even begin treks up Mount Meru. Its serene atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for relaxation or preparation before venturing into the surrounding national parks.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park may be smaller and less visited than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but it is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its alkaline lake, which fluctuates in size with the seasons, the park hosts over a million flamingos during the rainy season. Birdwatchers can also spot kingfishers, herons, and more than 400 bird species. Unique to this park are the rare tree-climbing lions, making it a must-see destination. The park’s diverse habitats—from savanna grasslands to marshes and forests—support elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, leopards, wildebeest, zebras, hyenas, and waterbucks. Visiting Lake Manyara is undoubtedly one of the top best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Arusha Kid Sports Centre
Perfect for families, the Arusha Kid Sports Centre provides a safe and fun environment for children. With swimming pools, play grounds, and organized water sports, kids can enjoy a full day of activities while parents relax nearby. Located near the Uhuru Monument, it is an accessible and enjoyable destination for families seeking best things to do in Arusha Tanzania over the weekend.
Golf in Arusha
For visitors interested in leisure and networking, Arusha offers excellent golfing opportunities. The Kilimanjaro Golf Club features an 18-hole course with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, and is open to paying visitors. Another historic option is the Gymkhana Golf Club, founded in 1940, with a 9-hole course located 30 kilometers away. Both clubs offer the chance to meet local businesspeople, expatriates, and government officials, combining recreation with cultural interaction. Nearby Moshi district also hosts a historic golf course dating back to 1920.
Tanzanite Shopping
Tanzanite, the rare gemstone only found in Tanzania, is a highly sought-after souvenir. In Arusha, tourists can purchase loose stones or customized jewelry. Large pieces can reach prices of $25,000 internationally, with Tiffany’s being a major buyer. Even for visitors on a budget, viewing Tanzanite in reputable shops or artisan showrooms like Mount Meru Hotel offers insight into this rare gem. Shopping for Tanzanite is a must-do among best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Cultural Heritage Centre
The Cultural Heritage Centre showcases Tanzania’s rich tribal cultures through artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. Visitors can find Tanzanite, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and opals alongside traditional crafts. The center provides an immersive experience into East African art, offering souvenirs and cultural understanding in one visit. If you seek more options, the nearby Masai Market along Fire Road offers handmade crafts, beads, and textiles, supporting local communities.
Jane Goodall Tribute Centre
Located within the Cultural Heritage Centre, the Jane Goodall Tribute Centre celebrates the legendary primatologist’s work with chimpanzees. Exhibits cover conservation, research projects, and local initiatives, providing visitors with insight into ongoing environmental efforts in Tanzania. This educational visit is one of the meaningful best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Hot Springs
Arusha is home to several beautiful hot springs, including Maji Moto, Kikuletwa, and Chemka. Maji Moto, an oasis in a seemingly dry area, offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, surrounded by palm and fig trees. Kikuletwa Hot Spring features green landscapes perfect for relaxation, while Chemka Hot Spring is ideal for leisurely swims in a serene natural setting. Day trips can be arranged from Arusha with packed lunches, offering a tranquil break from city life.
Maserani Snake Park
Located 25 kilometers from Arusha, the Maserani Snake Park houses a variety of snakes and reptiles, including venomous species such as black and green mambas, puff adders, and Egyptian cobras. Visitors can interact safely with animals under guidance, making it a thrilling stop. The park also includes a Maasai cultural museum, supports local health and education initiatives, and provides a unique combination of wildlife, culture, and social impact.
Farmers Market
The annual Nane Nane Day Farmers Market, held on August 8th, celebrates Tanzanian farmers. Tourists can see livestock, agricultural technologies, local produce, and crafts. It’s an immersive way to learn about local livelihoods and support the community while experiencing one of the cultural best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Waterfalls in Arusha
Arusha’s waterfalls offer scenic escapes. Themi Falls and Bang’ata waterfalls are perfect for hiking, relaxation, and photography. Materuni Waterfalls, an 80-meter high cascade in Materuni village, provides a full-day adventure including walking through coffee plantations and swimming in fresh waters. These waterfalls are among the most tranquil best things to do in Arusha Tanzania for nature lovers.
Themi Living Gardens
This women-led community center promotes sustainable gardening and employs people with disabilities. Visitors can enjoy eco-lunches, explore the gardens, and support social projects. The Themi Living Gardens is an educational and peaceful stop that combines gastronomy, culture, and sustainability.
Masai Market
For authentic artisan products, visit the Masai Market. Open on specific days, these markets sell beadwork, textiles, sculptures, and local crafts. Visitors can interact with Maasai vendors and support their livelihoods, making it a meaningful and culturally immersive stop.
Local Cuisine
Sampling Tanzanian cuisine is essential. Dishes such as Nyama Choma (roasted goat), Samaki (fish), Kuku (chicken), Ugali, and Chapatti are widely available. Restaurants like Tembo Club and Milestones Bar provide authentic meals, while local cooking classes offer a hands-on cultural experience.
Hiking Mount Meru
Mount Meru, standing at 4,562 meters, is the perfect prelude to Kilimanjaro climbs. The four-day trek passes through diverse habitats including forests, crater rims, and savannahs. Trekkers can enjoy sightings of monkeys, birds, and wildlife, plus panoramic views of Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and surrounding national parks. Guided hikes are mandatory for safety, and fees include park entry and ranger escort.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Tanzania’s crown jewel, Mount Kilimanjaro, is Africa’s highest peak. Climbers must prepare for altitude challenges and physical demands. Popular routes include Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe. Shorter treks to Mandara Hut (2,700 meters) provide a taste of Kilimanjaro’s forested slopes for less experienced hikers, offering spectacular views and insight into local flora and fauna. Full summit climbs require fitness, acclimatization, and expert guides.
Lake Duluti
Only 20 minutes from Arusha, Lake Duluti is a serene crater lake surrounded by forested hills. Canoeing, birdwatching, and nature walks provide a peaceful escape. Species include kingfishers, egrets, grey herons, and fish eagles. The lake’s quiet charm makes it one of the top best things to do in Arusha Tanzania for relaxation and nature lovers.
The Natural History Museum
Also known as the Old Boma Museum, the museum showcases Tanzania’s history, colonial past, and biodiversity. Exhibits include early human fossils from Laetoli and Olduvai Gorge, collections of plants, insects, and animals, and displays by renowned photographer Dick Persson. The museum also includes a small botanical garden, mini zoo, and serpentarium, making it educational and fascinating.
Arusha Declaration Museum
Founded to commemorate the 1967 Arusha Declaration, this museum explains Tanzania’s journey toward self-reliance and socialism. Guided tours provide insights into political history, governance, and the events shaping modern Tanzania. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the country’s social and political evolution.
Olpopongi Maasai Cultural Village and Museum
For those curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people, a visit to Olpopongi Maasai Cultural Village and Museum is a must. The village offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Maasai life through replicas of homesteads (known as mayattas), huts, and kraals. Visitors can learn about the roles of family members, from the chief to the husband and wife, in the daily running of the homestead. The cultural experience also includes live performances of Maasai songs and dances, giving tourists an authentic view of local traditions. Additionally, a section is dedicated to the Maasai medicine man, who demonstrates traditional healing techniques for both common and complex ailments. This immersive visit is one of the most insightful best things to do in Arusha Tanzania for those interested in culture, history, and indigenous practices.
Movies and Nightlife in Arusha
Though Arusha is relatively calm compared to larger cities, it has a vibrant nightlife for those seeking evening entertainment. Popular nightspots include Via Via, Ma’s Bar, Club D, Cocoriko, Johnny’s Bar, Lepatio, Empire Sports Bar, Boogaloo Club, The Don Club, and Triple A. Via Via is well-known for Thursday live music nights accompanied by Tanzania’s popular beer, Kili. Club D is the top choice for dancing to Ragga, Hip Hop, Reggae, Bongo flavor, and international hits while mingling with locals. Empire Sports Bar caters to soccer fans, offering live match screenings, a pool table, music, and drinks late into the night. For food lovers, Boogaloo Club is the best spot to enjoy nyama choma (roasted goat meat) in a lively evening setting. Experiencing Arusha’s nightlife is a fun way to engage with the city’s social scene and is one of the exciting best things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
Adrenaline-Raising Activities – Zip Lining, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking, and Horseback Safaris
Arusha is also a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities. The city features the only zip line park in Tanzania, located in Mto wa Mbu village, perfect for those seeking a thrilling experience above the treetops. Other exciting activities include mountain biking, quad biking, and horseback safaris, which allow visitors to explore the outskirts of the city and nearby landscapes. Mountain biking trips can extend as far as Moshi for longer adventures, while horseback and quad biking tours can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your preferences and budget. Biking, in particular, is highly recommended for its combination of exercise, sightseeing, and discovery of hidden routes. Bikes can be rented via hotels or tour operators, and hiring a local guide ensures you don’t miss the best scenic paths and secret spots around Arusha. Engaging in these activities is one of the top best things to do in Arusha Tanzania for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
