Contact Us9 popular things to do in Arusha Tanzania
Arusha is one of the unique Tanzanian cities that can offer real examples of living in the city unlike many other cities in the country. The city has a special reputation for the natural beauty, history and culture of north eastern Tanzania tourism. Everywhere you look, you see that the spirit of Arusha is still going round; from buying souvenirs in the markets to dining in the various restaurants. It is a perfect city for beginning a Tanzanian tour, since there is so much that can be done for those interested in an adventurous or cultural or natural experience in Arusha.
Only a short drive away from the city, some of the most renowned national parks and reserves in Tanzania are found and this makes it a perfect launch pad to the best wildlife watching in Tanzania. Besides the proposed opportunities of the safaris, there are cultural tourism opportunities through which people can engage the community in order to learn about the city and its culture and products such as the art, food, among others. If you are wondering what to do in Arusha Tanzania there are lots of things to do that fall in both the urban and the adventure activities.
Whether the guest is in Arusha for two or three days before they go for the safari or they are in Arusha for the entire vacation, they are always in for a surprise. There are so many sights to see in Arusha, whether it be museums, markets for hand crafts or national parks in the near vicinity that everything to see in Arusha will be memorable. If you are considering a Tanzania Tour Package you should ensure that you include Arusha on your list of places to visit. Here are the nine best things to do in Arusha before or after the safari activity.
Here are the 9 popular things to do in Arusha Tanzania
1. Arusha National Park
One of the most famous things to do in Arusha is a visit to the Arusha National Park. This beautiful park is also an ideal place for wildlife lovers to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, hippos and, occasionally, Kilimanjaro colobus monkeys. However, one cannot talk of this park without mentioning the striking views of Mt. Meru in the backdrop of the park. The park includes various geographical areas including the Ngurdoto Crater – almost similar to the Ngorongoro Crater – and the Serengeti Ndogo, which means ‘the small Serengeti.’ Other activities that are associated with the park include trekking, canoeing and viewing of bird species.
2. Cultural Tourism Program
Cultural tourism in Arusha is active and the programs that are on offer allow the visitor to interact with the different cultures that are around Arusha. These programs are locally community managed, centrally office coordinated and provide the visitors with the option of guided walks, traditional home stays and cultural dances. Regardless of whether it is learning about the local handmade products, learning how to cook or watch the Tanzanian dances, these programs will give one a real feel about the Tanzanian culture in things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
3. City Wildlife
If you are interested in history and the wildlife Arusha Natural History Museum is a must visit. Located in a colonial German structure, the museum displays fossil remains, historical relics as well as wildlife specimens. For some live animals, there are other attractions such as Meserani Snake Park where one can watch live snakes from the northern part of Tanzania. There is also a facility which recreates the Maasai cultural village through which tourists can learn of Maasai way of life as well as their customs and beliefs.
4. Via Via
Via Via is not only a café, but a cultural center which is open for guests and has something to offer. Adjacent to the Natural History Museum, the café doubles as a location for drumming practice, cooking demonstrations, and city or market tours. The relative informality of the place means that it is ideal for the relaxation while also engaging in a cultural activity which provide a glimpse into Arusha’s active social life.
5. Arusha Declaration Museum
The museum is located at the headquarters of the TANU youth wing and it marks the event in which the former President of Tanzania, Julius Nyerere made the Arusha Declaration in 1967 which advocated for socialism, self-reliance and African unity. Despite its size, there is a range of thought-provoking archival photos and artifacts that tell a story of Tanzania’s journey to independence and development, so history lovers will not be disappointed things to do in Arusha Tanzania.
6. Market Shopping
Visiting markets are among the most engaging things to do in Arusha and exploring the city’s markets are among the most engaging. It has an open air and the people there can be seen getting on with their normal business of selling such things as fruits, vegetables, clothing materials and the likes. Kilombero Market is the biggest market in the city and has a traditional African market feel to it. For local and traditional shopping’s, the Mt Meru Curios & Crafts Market known as Maasai Market is the best place to shop.
7. Cultural Heritage Centre
Sited at the periphery of Arusha, the Cultural Heritage Centre is a house of diverse and exquisite shops selling diverse and unique ornaments. Of the shops, Schwari has a vast variety of homewares, clothes, and jewelleries for sale. The location is quiet and unhurried so this is an ideal place for those who do not like to shop at crowded city markets.
8. Khan’s Barbeque
Khan’s Barbeque is one of the most famous local restaurants that would be a sin to ignore. During the day, it is used as automobile repairing firm, however, at night turns into a thriving food joint along the highway. Situated close to the mosque, people go there to Savor juicy barbeque, the ambiance of the places, and the energy of people. You don’t just get to eat here; you get to taste, smell, feel and embrace the Arusha Street food experience things to see in Arusha.
9. Blue Heron
Blue Heron café is located off the main business area of Arusha but it’s easily accessible from the busy central business district. The natured environment of the café makes it ideal to take a meal and enjoy the nature and especially the views of Mt. Meru. The homemade pizza is very popular among guests of the island and tourists, so after an exhausting day, you can relax here.
Conclusion:
Arusha is part urban and part nature and there are a lot of things tourists would like to do there. Whether you are a lover of wildlife, you are anxious to discover the cultural side of Arusha or you are ready to taste the authentic local food, there’s always something to do in Arusha to make your trip unforgettable. Of course, one may even go for trekking in Arusha National Park to have the real taste of Tanzania or to shop at the versatile markets. The other programs such as the cultural tourism and history museums even make your trip even more fruitful by providing more information about the culture and history of this rather unique region.
In addition, Arusha is famous for being the gateway to some of the great safari parks in the Africa and the perfect place for starting a more extensive Tanzania tour package from India. This makes it a perfect location such a tourist as it is near Tanzania’s most renowned attractions like Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara. This article is relevant whether you are booking a tour package for Tanzania from India or whether you are in Arusha to enjoy the various attractions before proceeding on a safari, Arusha is the real deal.