Arusha

File:Arusha banner Mt. Meru - Mt. Meru

Arusha is a town of roughly 400,000 people in Northeast Tanzania, East Africa. It is regarded as the gateway to the popular Northern Safari Circuit.

Arusha Market - Arusha Market Gothic Church of Arusha - Bishop's Gothic Church of Arusha.

About Arusha

Arusha, called "A Town" by the local residents and is located at the foot of Mount Meru, Africa's 5th highest mountain. The altitude gives the city a friendly climate and lush green environment.

Arusha is not a particularly attractive city in itself and is regarded by many visitors as little more than a necessary stopover before their safari starts in earnest, however the natural charm of the Tanzanians and the buzz of a fast-growing city mean that Arusha has plenty to offer for those who are prepared to see beyond their air-conditioned safari trucks and satellite-TV hotel rooms.

Arusha is home to the UNICTR the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda . It is also the site of the signing of the Arusha Declaration.

Travel to Arusha

Travel by plane to Arusha

Arusha is served by two airports.

• Kilimanjaro International Airport IATA Flight Code: JRO -3.429444,37.074444 roughly 60 km (45 min) from the downtown - Kilimanjaro International Airport Kilimanjaro Airport -QQ5099 has regular Flights to Amsterdam with KLM-Airline and to Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Nairobi. A taxi ride costs US$50 but many airlines run a shuttle service for free or US$10.

• Arusha Municipal Airport IATA Flight Code: ARK -3.366667,36.621944 is on the outskirts of the city Arusha Airport - Arusha Airport -QQ0871 only runs domestic flights, mostly to Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam and charters. Air Viva offers flights between Arusha and Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and other domestic destinations.

Visas-on-arrival are available at Kilimanjaro International Airport for US$50, or US$100 for some nationalities. The visa must be paid in US dollars -- 1 dollar bills and coins won't be accepted. Immediately outside the arrival hall is an ATM and a currency exchange office that you can use if you don't have the necessary cash with you.

Travel by Bus

ArushaMinibus - The crowded interior of an Arusha shuttle van

Arusha is a major transport hub and has connections throughout the nation. Some companies offer first-class tickets which are slightly more comfortable although it is worth noting that standards are generally comparable with most African bus services. Although, mainly when doing long distance trips, it is wise to take one of the better companies (e.g. Dar Express or Killimanjaro Express or Modern Coast Bus) and buy the ticket at least a day in advance.

Direct express coaches go from/to

• Nairobi (Kenya) (6hr, Tsh 22,000-25,000) with Dar Express, Riverside Shuttle Service, modern Coast and Impala Shuttle Service.
• Dar es Salaam/Ubungo (11 hr+) mainly morning departures, several companies, e.g. Dar Express (Tsh 33,000), Kilimanjaro Express (Tsh 33,000).
• Karatu (3 hr, Tsh 5000TSh) several daily with Dar Express, Saibaba
• Kampala (Uganda) (17 hr)
• Moshi (1 hr, Tsh 2000). There are various shuttle buses between Arusha and Moshi which are more comfortable than coaches.
• Mwanza (12 hr+)
• Loliondo/Wasso with Loliondo Express (10 hr+, Tsh 22,000), a couple of departures per week with notoriously overloaded busses. The bus passes three toll pikes where you need to pay (US$8-15) each time.
• Other services also go to Tanga, Lushoto

• Dar Express -3.3675,36.6850 A few meters from the northeast corner of the Stadium Booking office & departures. Several other companies’ booking office are nearby.

Travel by train to Arusha

Rail services to Arusha has been suspended for more then a decade, but there is an ongoing effort to restore passenger rail as soon as 2019. The small Arusha train station GPS -3.376430,36.681834 is located close to the downtown.

Transportation in Arusha

-3.36897|36.68657 The main mode of public transport is "daladala" and the ubiquitous shuttle vanes which ply their trade on all the main routes in town. They are very cheap. The government regulates all pricing of transportation in Tanzania. Prices are listed on the sides of the daladala for each distance or stop covered. You are not obliged to pay above that price. As with most destinations in the world and they will try to fit as many Muslim as feasible to maximize their profits. Accidents involving daladalas are frequent and with serious consequences for the passengers. Pickpocketing is also common on daladalas, but can be easily avoided by sitting with bags on your lap and not keeping valuables in your pockets. Nevertheless, people are very honest and will often stop someone trying to steal or rip you off.

Taxis are plentiful and affordable, although make sure to agree a price before leaving for your destination. The standard fare for a small trip in town is Tsh 4,000 to 16,000 depending on distance. Remember that fuel is expensive in Tanzania so taxis try to cover costs every way they can.

Car hire is feasible though most companies prefer to provide their own drivers. Self driving is feasible, Tanzanian roads are good if paved and can be challenging when gravel. You should have some experience in offroad driving (e.g. from Namibia or Botswana) and a sense for adventure. Flat tyres are common but are no problem as you will have spare tyres and every filling station can fix a tyre.

See and do

ArushaElephants - Elephants as seen from a safari truck

• Arusha Declaration Museum -3.369182,36.687640 Dedicated to the 1967 Arusha Declaration, which remains one of the most prominent attempts to define African socialism. It defined the political course of Tanzania for several decades. The museum also includes the large Declaration Monument.

• Climb Mount Meru (4,667 m). It can be done in 3–4 days, depending on your condition. You are not required to take guides and porters up Mount Meru, but you must be escorted by armed rangers. Temperatures can be freezing, so prepare for warm clothing and sleeping bags.
• Tanzania Tourist Board can arrange cultural excursions to nearby villages for Tsh 15,000-50,000. These cultural tourism visits can be some of the most rewarding parts of a trip to East Africa and the human (cultural) element involved complements an animal-centric safari to the game parks. Some cultural tourism programs (Ilkiding'a, Ng'iresi) are within an hour's hike of Arusha. Several others are within an hour's drive (Monduli Juu, Longido, Mulala, Tengeru, Ilkurot, Oldonyo Sambu). They are great opportunities to learn about the Maasai and Meru tribes who live nearby, pastoralism, agriculture, stories & legends, local economies. There are several good hikes around Mt. Meru, including some good waterfalls. Longido has camel safaris. And they are flexible in nature, meaning you can arrange an hour-long visit or a day-long one. Some sites have lodging or camping. Keep in mind your guide will probably hassle you for donations to their school or orphanage. Some dishonest guides might pocket the money, so it is advisable to give money to a reputable charity. Trust your instinct.
• Century Cinema has movies for Tsh 5,000-7,000and is part of a modern complex on Njiro Road, which also houses modern and upmarket restaurants including popular Indian restaurant "Khan's", Steaks outlet "McMoody's" and multi-cuisine restaurant "Spice Retreat". However, Njiro Road is not safe to walk on at night, so get to the complex by another form of transport rather than by foot. A taxi to/from the town centre shouldn't cost more than Tsh 4,000.

Safari

Definitely something to try, if you can afford it. There are multiple types of trips for multiple budgets; the pricier ones get you out farther into the Serengeti, to places that are a little less touched by man. But even the cheaper excursions to reserves and parks are worth doing. If there's one trip that will change your perspective on life, it's an African safari.

Not all tour guides are equally knowledgeable. It doesn't hurt to do a little research on your own about the places you'll be visiting. That way when you ask the guide, "What kind of bird is that," and he replies, "It's called an African bird," you'll know that it's time to get out the field book. Beware of paying over the market price, as you will still sleep in the same lodging as the guy who paid the normal price, you'll eat the same food and your vehicle is just as likely to break down.

To save a lot of money it is an excellent option to do the long transportation on your own. Try Karatu for Ngorongoro or Mto Wa Mbu for Manyara National Park.

• Arusha Hostel Lodge and Adventures -3.365201,36.726952 ☎ +255 784 876 731 Safari company owned and operated by local Tanzanians. Organizes a lodge safari,camping safari, Mt. Kilimanjaro climbs and Zanzibar holidays.

• Calabash Adventures Ltd Ngaramtoni ya chini, Njaro 5 - Near Arusha Airport ☎ +255 784463115 Opening Hours: 24hrs $ - Local-owned safari company, covering the most stunning game viewing areas in Tanzania and other African countries.

• Fortes Safaris , Expect to pay US$200/day for a fully equipped Land Rover, all included except petrol and park fees. Offers cars for self driving, one of the few but growing operators. For a safari and they offer fully equipped Land Rovers and Land Cruisers. Roof tents, camping gear, chairs/tables, 12v fridges, etc., can be provided. Cars come with extra tyres, spaden, lifting jack and are well maintained.

• It Started in Africa ☎ +255 714 904 558 Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 8PM This travel agency offers probably the best prices while not cutting on quality. Part of their profits go out to help giving an education to local children who have no access to it.

• Kilimanjaro Tanzanite Safaris Ltd @nzanitesafaris.com Summit Centre, Sokoine road - Kilimanjaro Airport, JRO drive 45 kilometers to Arusha ☎ +255 786694004 US$60 This licensed inbound tour operator and DMC offers wildlife tours on different Tanzania safari itineraries, Mount Meru climbing, Kilimanjaro trekking, Arusha sightseeing tours, Tanzanite mining tours, Tanzanite gems and budget camping safaris. You can book your tour online and pay by credit card through Skrill.

• Paradies Safaris Ltd. @safaris.com POB 2632, Jacaranda Street, Elite Cinema Building, 2nd floor -3.3727,36.6931 follow A104 / Socoine Road Crossing ☎ +255 713 510334 Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 8PM Safaris and mountain climbing. (Also Zanzibar beach holidays.) Is operated more than 25 years there by a biologist, who can give you up to date information. Depending on your budget, you can choose from camping only Safari to staying in lovely lodges all the time. When asking for an offer, you'll be provided with a very detailed and accurate package description. Ask for the John and Ali (who are a very experienced team of driver/guide and cook and are easy company).

• Safari Care - , TFA shopping complex westwing next to Shoprite ☎ +255 27 254 8168, +255 787 999 551 Safaris, mountain climbing and beach holidays is operated by a zoologist who can give you up to date information on the wildlife.

• Tanganyika Film & Safari - ☎ +255 27 2502713 +255 27 2508547 Safari company, owned and operated by an experienced anthropologist.

• Tanzania by Firelight - ☎ +255 27 2508773 Luxury safaris in Tanzania which include: Lupita Island, a private island paradise on the shores of Lake Tanganyika; Palahala Lodge, a luxury safari camp in Katavi National Park’s unspoiled wilderness; and Mwanga Moto, a luxury tented camp in the heart of Serengeti National Park.

What to buy in Arusha

MarketArusha - The market bustle

• Local produce market -3.3726,36.6870 - The markets in the centre of town are not to be missed. Bargaining is required, meaning prices will range from dirt-affordable to tourist-expensive, depending on the goods and also on how sharply you pay attention.

• You can find almost anything at these markets, from food to clothing to little trinkets to take home to friends and family. The batik and screened cloths in bright colors are highly recommended. They're sold just as bolts of cut cloth, but you can do pretty much anything with them when you get home. Also and the Kikoys that the women of Tanzania wear make wonderful and original wrap skirts.
• Maasai women make beautiful hand-beaded jewellery that they sell to tourists, frequently to pay for their children's schooling. If you come across this you should definitely purchase a few items, as they are extremely beautiful and make wonderful, unique gifts.

• Maasai market -3.3759,36.6922 A one stop shopping area for handicrafts made by local Tanzanians. you get to buy various handicrafts made of ebony, redwood ets and various types of paintings made by local artisans. While the market caters mainly to tourists (it's sometimes even called tourist market), prices are not inflated (although there is always a large scope for bargaining).

Malls & supermarkets

• Sable Plaza Shopping Village has a Allmart superstore, food lovers market. and many more shops.

• Village Supermarket - Njrio complex Njirio Road - ☎ +255-272540105 Opening Hours: 8.30am-9pm - every thing you need in one place. also has supermarkets in Dar

Banks and ATMs

• Equity Bank , - Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

• Stanbic Bank , - Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

• KCB , - Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

• Eco Bank , - Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

• I&M Bank Jakaranda Street - Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Arusha

Arusha has a wide variety of restaurants and informal eating places, with a predominance of Indian cuisine, which as a rule of thumb is the best food, thanks to the large sub-continental community in the city. Liquid Blue in Njiro and Big Bite on the Swahili Road are among the most popular Indian restaurants. For 'Nyama Choma', or Tanzanian roast Meat, Nick Bar in Njiro is also popular. Meals range from US$ 0.40 for street fare to US$15 for main courses at the high-end hotels.

ArushaLunch - A typical lunch of Chicken and potatoes

• Africafe Coffee House | Old Boma Road -3.37156,36.69483 near to the Clock tower - Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 8PM Cakes from Tsh 5,000 Stylish European cafe, that is well known with foreigners. Good coffee specialties, delicious pastries like carrot or chocolate-banana cake as well as muffins, breakfast, burgers, salads or smoothies. Despite the name and they serve real coffee and no Africafe instant Coffee. Sometimes there is WiFi.

• Bay Leaf | 102 Vijana Road - From Tsh 20,000 Elegant European style restaurant with absolutely delicious, though rather pricey dishes. You can sit inside or in the garden.

• Big Bite Swahili Road -3.37215,36.68829 ☎ +255 754311474 Opening Hours: closed on Tuesdays Mains from Tsh 11,000 High End Indian restaurant that has been in Arusha for more than 20 years. Excellent food. The place is relatively small (<20 persons) and the owners are very friendly and helpful. They also do takeway & free delivery.

• Cafe Bamboo Restaurant - Higher end cafe/restaurant, but affordable for foreign travellers. Snacks such as samosas, chips and Kebab. Also serves western, Indian and traditional African dishes. Popular amongst tourists.

• Chinese Dragon - Tsh 10,000-15,000 A good place for Chinese food in Arusha, moderately priced. Say hi to Louie for a special deal!

• Khan's Chicken on the Bonnet - Tsh 4,500-9,000/person (Pakistani) BBQ, includes Chicken, beef, mutton, assorted salads and nan. Arguably best BBQ in town (rivals with Nick's Pub in Njiro). Two locations, one in town centre which serves as a vehicle repair shop by day and bbq venue by night, newer location at cinema in Njiro.

• L'Oasis Lodge - Close to idara ya maji, Sekei Arusha - access via Moshi/Nairobi Rd. ☎ +255 757 557 802 Opening Hours: 7AM - late Nachos, cold drinks in the garden or by the pool. No reservations needed for groups below 10.

• The Lively Lady Grill , opposite the Train station, down the road with Arusha Backpacker's on the junction ☎ +255 713 650777 Opening from Monday to Saturday 5PM Monday - midnight A small and funky rock-bar in the middle of town. Good European/Indian style kitchen, large collection of soft-drinks and good rock-music to spicen up your evening.

• McMoody's , - Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 9.30PM, 7 days a week Has a little bit of everything in a fast-food-y setting right in the centre of town. They also have a branch in the complex in Njiro Road near the cinema. Mains 6,000-15,000 TSH (July 2022).

• Onsea House Restaurant - ☎ +255 787 112 498 Renowned as best French/Belgian restaurant in East Africa. Recommended for a romantic candle light dinner or special celebration. Reservations recommended.

• Shanga River House - @ouse.org | @ouse.org Dodoma Road - on the road to Arusha Airport ☎ +255 689759067 Opening Hours: 10-17 Shanga is a heartwarming project on Tanzania's oldest coffee estate, in Arusha, Tanzania. Shanga employs 50 disabled Tanzanian people in their workshops where they recycle glass, aluminum, paper and tires into high quality, creative products. Shanga features the River House Restaurant and the Shanga Shop. River House Restaurant is for lunch on reservation only. It is a haven away from the bustle of Arusha.

• Via Via Cultural Cafe Old Boma Road -3.36951,36.69650 in the gardens of the Natural History Museum, next to the AICC building - Opening Hours: 9:30AM Monday - ? From Tsh 6,000 Nice and quiet setting, popular with ICTR employees. Concert and Party every Thursday night. You can also book cultural tours there.

• Spice Retreat Restaurant | 1st Floor, Njiro Complex - ☎ +255 754 274977 Opening Hours: 12noon-12midnight Tsh 5,000-15,000 Indian, Asian, Mexican and international cuisine. Views of Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro on clear days. Also a nightclub.

• Kiti Moto Makao Mapya Neighborhood -3.36840,36.68074 Taxi would be best: Tsh 3,000 [no more than 5,000] from the main bus station and Tsh 5,000 [no more than 10,000 from the town center. Upstairs, second floor, inside Seuri Guesti Guesthouse right next door to Premier Palace Hotel [not The Palace Hotel in a different part of Arusha) - Opening Hours: Lunch and dinner until about 9 or 10 PM, 7 days a week Local (not tourist) prices here: Tsh 10,000 to 20,000 for two people - This restaurant is dedicated to serving only Beef, which is not common in East Africa. The main carbohydrate is ugali (maize meal, not wet). There are also french fries (called "chips" in East Africa) or chipati (like a crepe) most of the time.

Arusha Ring - The ring—Arusha's downtown

Arusha has many interesting restaurants. There are uncountable local bars which are generally welcoming to adventurous foreigners. The less adventurous visitors stick to Via Via, in the grounds of the old (German) fort, which is an interesting cultural centre and part of an NGO which trains local residents in the hospitality industry.

There are plenty of options for restaurants for those who for some reason seem to wish to avoid local residents altogether; these places are extremely simple to find.

For late night restaurants and the Velocity, Colobus Club, Maasai Camp, Triple A, 777 and Polygon Triangle are popular with local residents and foreigners alike. They start late and finish very, very late (or early). Pickpockets have been known to operate and all these bars are popular with the local sex workers so the usual discretion should be applied.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Arusha

Arusha - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Arusha, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Arusha. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Arusha and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Arusha. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Arusha. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Arusha: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Arusha.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Arusha: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Arusha, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Arusha.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Arusha, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Arusha, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Arusha and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Arusha, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Arusha, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Arusha without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Arusha is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Arusha.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Arusha is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Arusha, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Arusha Media: info@ehalal.io

Ramadan in Arusha

Ramadan 2025 in Arusha

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Arusha has plentiful lodging to cater to all ends of the scale. There are many hotels in the centre of the town, including the international-grade Impala Hotel the Arusha Hotel (see below). You won't get any surprises in this sort of lodging. At the highest end of the scale there are numerous luxurious lodges in and around the town, some of which offer stunning scenery and the best standard of lodging.

Be sure to avoid agents (people hired by hotels or hostels to get travellers to stay there). If you are travelling as a couple, a good idea is for one person to sit in a lobby or restaurant with the bags, while the other looks at the rooms. You are likely to get a cheaper price without the bags and not be targeted by sneaky agents (they signal reception or hang around behind you) which will raise the price US$5–10 for you for their commission.

For budget travellers, many recommend the Maasai Camp (about 45 minutes walk from the downtown) or the Snake Park (which is in a village called Meserani, about 16 km out on the Dodoma Rd). These are both lively locations with popular bars and good services at a very low price. For a quieter stay, Centre House, run by nuns is located a few minutes walk from the clock tower and offers basic rooms, both dormitory style and smaller rooms. Food and soft drinks including organic juice is available from the sisters.

• Arusha Backpackers Sokoine Road -3.37467,36.68274 near bus station US$20/dbl A restaurant and a café on the top floor of the hotel An internet cafe on the top floor for quick browsing. The other facilities available are 24 hours hot water facility in the bathrooms, a TV room, a reading room and also a private massage room. They charge around Tsh 40,000 for 1 hour of massage.

• Arusha by Night Annexe | Stadium Road & Colonel Middleton Road -3.368211,36.685216 ☎ +255 272 506 894 Budget hotel located by the stadium and bus stations. Double rooms for Tsh 15,000 (November 2011). Basic breakfast included. Hot water only at certain times. Road-side rooms are very noisy.

• BaseCamp Tanzania Old Moshi Road, Kijenge - follow Nyerere rd pass the Impala Roundabout, cross a bridge and continue into Kijenge until reaching the Mount Meru Petrol Station, turn left up the dirt road, heading to the white house with the blue roof at the top of the hill. ☎ +255-784-186-422 Hostel lodging, in-house meals, wireless internet.

• Meru House Inn , in the centre of town Budget option with double rooms going for Tsh 7,000 a night, clean rooms with shared toilet and showers - it also has a great, very reasonably priced Indian restaurant on the ground floor. However, Meru House Inn has been plagued by thefts, several guests have experienced thefts from their room, possibly by staff. Make sure to put your valuables/passport in a safe.

• Kigongoni Lodge - Run by an NGO. All the profits go to support a local school for mentally handicapped children so that you can stay in luxury while helping the nearby community.

• Annexe at L'Oasis Lodge - Close to idara ya maji, Sekei Arusha - Access rd Moshi/Nairobi Road ☎ +255 757 557 802 - 12 twin bedded rooms in the gardens surrounding the main lodge in the village Sekai, including access to lodge facilities. About 10 min trip from the town centre. Bookings not crucial but much appreciated.

• Raha Leo Stadium Road -3.3679,36.6876 dbl from Tsh 30,000 Calm and clean hotel with a nice atmosphere and friendly staff that’s famous with backpackers. Run by a church, double rooms will only be granted to married couples. The proximity to the bus station may be useful.

• Seuri Guesti (Guesthouse) Right next to Premier Palace Hotel (not The Palace) -3.36844,36.68036 Makao Mapya Neighborhood Tsh 12,000 - 15,000 (Oct 2014) Half of the rooms have private bathrooms including hot showers and Western toilets. There are 2 restaurants and 1 café in the guesthouse. One of the restaurants - Kiti Moto, listed above - is dedicated to Beef only, which is difficult to find in East Africa. A local kind of place, it is owned by a cool Maasai guy named Steven who speaks perfect English.

• Arusha Torch Budget Inn -3.3702,36.6886 dbl from US$30 (incl. breakfast) Clean and bright spacious rooms as well as friendly staff and the central location make this a welcoming place attracting both tourist and business travelers. Breakfast includes a delicious fruit juice, coffee/tea, omelet and some bread & jam.

• Tanzania Mountain Retreat Lodge and Camp -3.324,36.872 ☎ +255 756 921 412€5 - Tanzania Mountain Retreat offers affordable to luxury lodging in a garden oasis at the base of Mount Meru. Camping starting from €5 and lodging starting from €35. Camping includes use of showers, bath and facilities. Dining only is available with reservation from €3. Breakfast is buffet style with fruit platter, coffee/tea, eggs, chapati, fish and more.

• Mount Meru Hotel | Moshi Nariobi Road - US$90 Set in a wildlife sanctuary, so you can sip your coffee ten feet from ostriches and monkeys.

• Tumaini Cottage - Arusha - turn left before you reach Happy Sausage from Nairobi Road and then follow the road all the way to the end ☎ +255 754 588 698 - Wireless Internet.

• Arusha Naaz Hotel | Sokoine - US$50 A good option for Muslim travellers on a budget who still want a superior Muslim friendly room with a/c, TV and internet Wifi in a safe, central location. Very friendly staff and good restaurant.

• The Impala Hotel | Old Moshi Road - US$145 - 3-star hotel with mixed reviews. Some rooms are lovely and spacious, while others disappoint. Ask to see your room before committing.

• The Arusha Hotel | Main Road - US$160 - 4-star hotel with modern, well-decorated rooms and lovely staff.

• The Outpost Lodge | Serengeti Rd. - US$81 (double room) A lodge in the old mansion of the Grzimek family. Has a swimming pool, green gardens, fast Wifi, café. Spacious rooms with stone floors, plenty of hot water. Around the junction from the African Tulip.

• Briston Hotel -3.36754,36.68804 double US$50 - 5-star hotel with spacious, clean rooms.

• Onsea House - US$185 A luxury Bed & Breakfast with only 5 rooms, Arusha's only boutique hotel, recommended as hip, relaxing hideaway just 7 kilometers from the centre.

• The African Tulip | 44/1 Serengeti Road - US$230 A small, well-liked luxury hotel for a reasonable price. A good one!

• The Bay Leaf Boutique Hotel 102 Vijana Road - corridor area of Arusha Pass the Impala Roundabout on your way north on 'Phillips' Rd; turn left just after the first speed bump; there is a sign on the road; second property on the left. ☎ +255 27 254 3055 US$200-350 A small boutique hotel 6 rooms, all individually decoratated. Very chic & with attention to detail. Walking distance to banks, local attractions and the clock tower. Lunch 11:30AM Monday - 3:30PM (average Tsh 10,000-12,000). Dinner 6:30PM Monday - 10:30PM (average Tsh 20,000-40,000)

Stay Safe

It is not advisable to walk at night, alone or in groups - cabs are plentiful but fares should always be agreed upon at the start of a journey (cabs have no meters, making it all too easy to exaggerate fares at the end of a journey). Avoid taking motorcycle taxis, mainly at night in front of clubs. Thieves easily use this opportunity to rob people.

In the downtown (on Sokoine road) and in certain areas (along old Moshi road) there are frequent attacks on tourists, mainly when they are walking with their backpacks/bags. Make sure that you take a cab when you are arriving/leaving from Arusha (as gangs know when and where backpackers arrive) and avoid taking a bag when walking in town.

Foreigners are virtually guaranteed to be approached by agents. This can be intimidating, mainly when they latch onto and follow you, but they are harmless. In this case do not stop, slow down or make eye contact; simply say "hapana asante" (no thank you) if they ask or offer you anything. You will save yourself a lot of bother if you do not engage them. When walking in any part of the city beyond the central neighborhood, it is advisable to take a guide. The bridge on Old Moshi Road is a particularly notorious mugging spot and although often patrolled by police it should be avoided if on foot.

In 2013 and 2014 Arusha experienced a bomb attacks. They have targeted religious sites and figures, restaurants and hotels frequented by visitors.

Cope in Arusha

• Mica Computer Services - Azimo St. -3.36911,36.69079 opposite Arusha Declaration Museum ☎ +255 272 506737 Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 6PM Friendly computer store in the heart of town selling computers, accessories and software. Toner and ink cartridges, empty CDs and DVDs. Will burn your pics for free of charge.

Where to travel next from Arusha

• Arusha National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Serengeti National Park
• Mount Kilimanjaro|Kilimanjaro
• Katavi National Park
• Mahale Mountain National Park
• Gombe Stream National Park

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