Arusha City & Arusha National Park

Known as Tanzania’s safari capital, Arusha is a beautiful Tanzanian city that houses Mount Meru and Arusha National Park. Capital of the Arusha Region, located below Mount Meru, the region is close and starting point to the northern circuit of stellar National Parks.
Before the arrival of the colonial powers, the city was home to the Maasai people. During the German colonial administration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Arusha became a crucial administrative centre. After gaining independence, the town emerged as a symbol of Pan-African unity, hosting the Arusha Declaration in 1967 and playing a key role in founding the East African Community in 1999. The Tanzanian government declare Arusha a city on 15 August 2012, with it becoming official on 2 November 2012.

From its sleepy status in the middle of the countryside, it has now grown and developed into one of the country’s most prosperous and thriving towns. Full of colorful markets, shops, museum and exciting night life with bars and restaurants that provide plenty of fun, activities and entertainment.

Arusha is perfectly located in the fertile valley beneath the mountain ranges where farmlands produce half of the nation’s wheat, as well as a significant amount of beans, coffee, vegetables,
maize, and bananas for export.

All major roads cross Arusha to the most important destinatios of Tanzania and Kenya, domestic and international (from JRO, Kilimanjaro International Airport) flights connect Arusha to major Tanzania and Africa destinations. Arusha Airport is a regional air hub (for safari air strips and short connection).
Daladalas (mini bus) cover much of the town’s outskirts. Taxis can be rented outside the airport. Bodaboda are motorbike taxis used to move quickly in the traffic.
Shopping in Arusha is a vibrant experience, where colorful markets and specialty shops offer a wide array of Tanzanian crafts, textiles, and more. For Tanzanite, a rare and precious gemstone native to Tanzania, go to the Tanzanite Experience Museum.
Arusha can be visited year round. June to October is ideal if you want a much clearer view and a sunny experience. These months correspond to the long dry season of the city, and August is usually the driest month of the year.
Attractions: Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, Arusha clock tower, Arusha NP, Maasai market,
museum, Climbing Mount Meru, Meserani Snake Park and many more.

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a Tanzanian National Park located in the Arusha Region, northeast of
Arusha city. The park covers an area of 137 square kilometers. The park is named after Mount Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro, which is located just to the west of the park.
Arusha National Park is truly a multi-faceted jewel, offering the opportunity to explore a wide diversity of habitats.
The entrance gate leads to the mountain forests inhabited by colobus monkeys and colorful
turacos. Arusha National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions,
giraffes, zebras, flamingos and many more.

Climate