Arusha

Arusha Region is one of Tanzania’s most iconic destinations, located in the northern part of the country. It serves as the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, home to some of the world’s most famous national parks and landscapes. The regional capital is Arusha City, a bustling hub known for its tourism, diplomacy, and vibrant cultural scene. The region borders Kenya to the northeast, placing it near the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure travelers.

Covering approximately 34,526 km² (13,330 sq mi), Arusha is larger than Belgium and roughly the same size as the U.S. state of Maryland. Its diverse geography includes the Serengeti Plains to the northwest, the Masai Steppe to the south, and the Crater Highlands, which form part of the East African Rift System. Volcanic activity and tectonic forces have shaped the landscape, creating dramatic lava plains, towering mountains, and fertile highlands.

Top Attractions & Natural Wonders

Arusha Region is a world-class travel destination, boasting stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and deep cultural heritage:

• Serengeti National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations, home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the plains in search of fresh grazing lands.
• Ngorongoro Crater – The largest unbroken volcanic caldera in the world, teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), along with lush grasslands and alkaline lakes.
• Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest peak (4,566 m / 14,979 ft), offering stunning trekking opportunities through dense forests and scenic ridges, often considered a great acclimatization hike before Kilimanjaro.
• Oldoinyo Lengai – The only active carbonatite volcano in the world, sacred to the Maasai people, offering a challenging yet rewarding climb with breathtaking sunrise views over the Rift Valley.
• Lake Manyara National Park – Famous for its tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and diverse ecosystems, from groundwater forests to acacia woodlands.
• Arusha National Park – A hidden gem, featuring the lush slopes of Mount Meru, Momella Lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including colobus monkeys and giraffes.
• Tarangire National Park – Known for its massive elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, and seasonal wildlife migrations, offering an off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
• Cultural Tourism & Maasai Villages – Arusha is a cultural melting pot, home to the Maasai, Meru, and other ethnic groups, with immersive experiences in traditional villages, local markets, and coffee plantations.

Why Visit Arusha Region?

Arusha is a dream destination for safari lovers, hikers, and cultural explorers. Whether you're looking to witness the Great Migration, trek volcanic peaks, or engage with indigenous Maasai traditions, this region offers some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife experiences. Its combination of adventure, nature, and culture makes Arusha an unforgettable stop for travelers visiting Tanzania and East Africa.