About
Arusha is a city in northern Tanzania, in the Arusha Region, and it serves as a gateway to some of the country's best-known safari destinations, including Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. For many visitors, it is the place where a safari begins, and where the journey back to it ends.
Why visit
Most travellers come to Arusha to set out on a wildlife trip. From the city, you can arrange organised excursions to the parks and reserves of the north, and the city's role as a base means that much of the practical side of a safari, from transport to preparation, is closely tied to it.
- A starting point for trips to Serengeti National Park
- Access to the Ngorongoro Crater
- A convenient base for planning a northern Tanzania itinerary
Staying and getting around
Arusha works well as an overnight stop before or after a safari, giving you a chance to rest and organise your plans in a city setting. It is a useful place to pause between long drives into the bush, and to settle into the rhythm of northern Tanzania before heading out.
Planning your visit
Because Arusha is so closely linked to the parks, it helps to think of your stay as part of a wider trip. Consider how many days you want for the wildlife areas, and whether you would like a little time in the city itself before or after. Checking current arrangements with a tour operator or local guide will help you make the most of the time you have.