…and where to stay to make it all unforgettable.
Things to do in Arusha go far beyond a simple stopover. It’s the beginning of your Tanzanian adventure—with red-dirt roads, the scent of fresh coffee in the air, and the hum of daily life flowing beneath Mount Meru’s quiet gaze.
Situated at the base of Mount Meru, Arusha serves as the gateway for travelers heading to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you’re here for a day or setting up base, these five experiences show why Arusha is a destination in its own right.
1. Step into Arusha National Park
You wake up early, sip your coffee, and head to Arusha National Park, just a 40-minute drive away. No long drives or packed safari trucks here. Instead, you’re drifting across Momella Lake in a canoe, watching flamingos take flight as giraffes nibble from the treetops. A walking safari? Absolutely. It’s your first taste of the wild and it feels personal.
2. Hold a Piece of the Earth’s Rarest Gem
In the heart of Arusha, you step into The Tanzanite Experience, a museum-meets-gallery dedicated to one of the world’s rarest gemstones Tanzanite. Only found near Mount Kilimanjaro, this gem has a story of pressure, rarity, and deep cultural pride. New VR exhibits and hands-on displays bring its beauty and origin to life. It’s more than jewelry it’s a geological wonder.
3. Trek Mount Meru – A Must-Do Thing in Arusha
Standing in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru often gets overlooked—but that’s exactly why it feels like a secret worth discovering. Trekking Meru is a journey through lush forests, misty ridgelines, and peaceful trails with far fewer crowds. You may encounter colobus monkeys, soaring eagles, and jaw-dropping sunrise views from Socialist Peak.
The climb typically takes 3–4 days, and it’s a perfect warm-up for Kilimanjaro or a stand-alone trek for those who want stunning scenery without the altitude extremes. With ranger-led hikes and rich biodiversity, Mount Meru rewards the curious and the courageous.
4. Escape to the Serene Beauty of Arusha’s Waterfalls
You hear the sound before you see it rushing water echoing through a green corridor of banana trees and thick forest. Materuni Waterfall, just a short drive from Arusha and near Moshi, feels like a hidden world. A local guide leads you along a scenic trail, past coffee farms and into Chagga territory.
When the falls appear tall, misty, and magical you understand why the journey was worth every step. Bring a swimsuit if you’re brave enough to dip in the chilly waters. Many tours pair the waterfall with a local coffee-making experience, so you’ll leave with a warm cup in hand and a story to tell.
5. Among the Things to Do in Arusha is visiting the Chemka Hot Springs
You wrap up your day at Chemka Hot Springs (also known as Kikuletwa Hot Springs), where warm turquoise water bubbles up from underground springs. Surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, it feels like a hidden oasis. It’s peaceful, surreal, and the kind of place you’ll daydream about long after you leave.
Planning Your Trip
To get the most out of Arusha, plan your visit during the dry seasons (June to October or January to March). Pack light, breathable clothes, sun protection, and sturdy shoes. Book accommodations and any safaris in advance especially during peak season.
Getting Around
Arusha Airport (ARK) handles regional flights, while Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) connects to major cities. Planet Lodges offers seamless airport transfers to make your arrival stress-free. For day trips or excursions, many travelers opt for a private driver or guided tour.
Public transport is limited and best avoided unless you’re comfortable navigating local systems. Most reputable lodges help coordinate transport for guests.
Where to Stay in Arusha
At the end of every adventure, where you stay shapes how you remember the journey. That’s where Planet Lodges comes in. Whether you’re landing in town, heading out on safari, or just soaking in Arusha’s rhythm, our lodges offer more than a place to sleep. Think peaceful gardens, warm hospitality, and locally inspired comfort right where you need it. With Arusha Planet Lodge and Airport Planet Lodge, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore, unwind, and get ready for what’s next.
