Wildlife Safari in Tanzania: Why Arusha is the Gateway City

The timeless safari city of Arusha exists right in between the two main mountains of Tanzania: Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. Each and every trip that is planned to Tanzania includes a visit to this city in one form or another, and you may either begin or end your trip in Arusha depending on your itinerary.

This beautiful city serves as the gateway to some of the most famous and well-visited wildlife parks in Tanzania’s northern circuit. Travelers are usually stopping at Arusha to visit Arusha National Park, which is often a part of the packages that are offered by wildlife safari tour operators inTanzania.

In this blog, we will explore every place in Arusha that will interest you and help you make the most of your visit. There are also a few easier ways to reach this amazing city which we will talk about here, as well as all the things you will need in order to plan a great trip to this rapidly developing city.

Best Ways to Reach Arusha as Suggested by Wildlife Safari Tour Operators in Tanzania

When you begin a wildlife safari in Tanzania, the most convenient way to come to Arusha is by flight as both of its airports are strategically located to facilitate simpler travel. These are:

1.    Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) - There are plenty of direct flights with JRO as the destination available from multiple cities like Nairobi, Amsterdam, Addis Ababa, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam.

2.    Arusha Airport - This airport is mainly used for domestic flights from and to Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and nearby countries. 

Arusha is more accessible because of the two airports which enable travelers to reach their chosen safari places in a shorter span of time while also reducing travel costs. Also, direct flights mean that visitors will not have to pay excessive visa processing charges.

Additionally, public transportation in Arusha is simplified and convenient and that makes it easier to go from one major city to another in Africa.

Arusha’s Attractions that Wildlife Safari Packages Tanzania Offers

Let’s talk about the most fun attractions in Arusha that you definitely must visit during your tour of Tanzania:

Arusha National Park

One of the most obvious travel attractions for multiple reasons, especially for safari-goers, is the Arusha National Park. The main reason is that it is located on the way to other popular national parks in the northern circuit, which is also why it is often a part of wildlifesafari packages Tanzania based tour operators offer. This allows tourists to relax for a night or two in the city before embarking on a thrilling adventure towards the other parks. 

Besides, it also allows visitors to explore the unique culture and safari alternatives that are available in the colorful city of Arusha. June through September is the ideal time when you can visit this amazing place.

Here are some of our top recommendations for activities that you can do when you go to Arusha National Park -

●     Go on remarkable game drives

●     Explore the copious wildlife populace by taking part in a photographic safari

●     Go on an invigorating hike up Mount Meru, the fifth tallest mountain in Africa! 

●     Delight in refreshing walking safaris

●     Row through the beautiful lake in a spectacular canoe trip

Tarangire National Park

Elephant lovers get to enjoy the most in Tarangire National Park that is situated close to Arusha. Moreover, this park is not as well-visited as other parks like Serengeti National Park or Lake Manyara National Park, which is great for those who would rather not be rushed through their safari.

In case you have booked one of our Zanzibar beach holiday packages, you can still visit Tarangire National Park; just let us know and we will make the arrangements to accommodate all your wishes!

While on your relaxed journey through the park, you can be one of the lucky ones to witness elephants frolicking about in the mud along with lions that climb trees! There may also be leopards and herds of buffaloes roaming about and giving you excellent opportunities to click some fantastic photographs as well.

Conclusion

Arusha is not just a brief stopover for tourists looking to begin their safari getaways. This fast-growing city is an incredible place where travelers can experience a wonderful blend of sights and sounds as well as partake in exciting activities before commencing their Zanzibar beach tour packages.

Apart from exploring the wildlife, you can discover the history of the place where you stand by visiting the museums and heading over to the clock tower circle. If you are more into shopping then the Central and Kilombero Market is a must-visit for souvenirs.

Don’t forget to taste the delectable Tanzanian cuisine that is served in a large range of eateries across the city. As for those who find themselves entranced by snakes, the Meserani Snake Park is something you will definitely look forward to!