Tanzanite experience tour - Tanzanite shopping in Arusha

Arusha , Tanzania

Tanzanite experience tour - Tanzanite shopping in Arusha

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(14 reviews)

3h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Mined only in Tanzania, the beautiful blue December birthstone, known as tanzanite, is a unique souvenir of your East African adventure and a must-have in any jewellery lover’s collection. The Tanzanite Experience tour introduces the history of this magnificent mineral, including a chance for shopping for amazing crafts and buy Tanzanite stone in Tanzania, Arusha

The Arusha region is well known for a range of Gemstones, exquisite jewellery, Maasai crafts and intricate ebony carvings. Your guide will tailor a shopping expedition to the places well known for Tanzanite,ebony carvings,Maasai crafts, Paintings and Gemstones.

- Hassle-free round-trip transfers from your Arusha hotel
- Visit the Shanga Foundation, where disabled locals produce beautiful handicrafts
- Get the safety of buying stones from our experienced guides
- Explore the Cultural Heritage Centre for a deep dive into Tanzania's history
- Limited to just your group, you'll get a personalized experience

Available options

Tanzanite experience tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

What you'll see

1. Tanzanite Experience museum

After pick up from your Hotel we will start to visit Tanzanite Experience museum and learn about the history, mystery and rarity of this precious gemstone, unique to Tanzania. Through a series of interactive tours and visual exhibitions, including a replica of a Tanzanite mine shaft, visitors discover how Tanzanite was created, named, mined, cut, polished and graded. There is also the opportunity to purchase Tanzanite direct from the source with all gemstones purchased being accompanied by a certificate by The Tanzanite Laboratory. The museum is located in the center of Arusha and has a store attached and in addition. Then we will drive to Shanga Foundation and the largest African Art gallery, Cultural Heritage Centre.

It is said that tanzanite is “1,000 times rarer than diamonds' ' and, found at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, is incredibly exclusive to Tanzania. World famous New York jewelers “Tiffany & Co”, declared it “the most beautiful blue stone to be discovered in 2,000 years”, and named it Tanzanite. A must have vibrant blue gem for your jeweled trinket box, so we will visit the best place to buy tanzanite in Arusha, Tanzania.

2. Shanga & Shanga Foundation

The Shanga Foundation, this is a house craft store workshop allowing disable locals to exploit knowledge of the artisans behind the glassware, beads, paintings, and fabrics for sale in the store. In the place you will marvel at beautiful décor like walls of recycled wine bottles that magnified the warm light and make a lovely noise when gently moved. The store also has people making beaded jewelry and cloth from recycled materials. They have stuffed elephants made from reused men’s’ shirts. All this will spoil you buy stuff for your family. It’s here also you will get a chance to explore the fascinating Tanzanite Experience boutique, where you can order for yourself tanzanite bracelets and necklaces that make ideal gifts and souvenirs for your Arusha Experience.

3. Cultural Heritage Centre

Cultural Heritage is a unique cultural Centre on the outskirts of Arusha. there are curio shops, a jewelry boutique, a tanzanite and precious stone counter, a restaurant, bargain center and outstanding commercial art gallery. There is vast array of ornaments, jewelry, antiques and local crafts to cater for any budget.

the exquisite collection of precious and semi-precious stones – including rubies, emeralds, tsavorite, diamonds, sapphires and opals - is unrivalled across the continent.

The only collection of its kind in the world, ranging from African antiques to contemporary painting and sculpture you will be dazzled by the assembly of art and artefacts, a breath taking feat of engineering and artful display that will leave you awe-struck. Expert assistants are on hand to help you purchase art by emerging African artists or fascinating antiques form across the continent.
Taste traditional African dishes and humus, who would go anywhere else?

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Arusha

Arusha is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in northern Tanzania. Known as the gateway to some of Africa's most famous national parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders. The city is also a cultural melting pot, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences.

Top Attractions

Mount Meru

Mount Meru is an active volcano and the second-highest peak in Tanzania. It offers challenging treks and stunning views.

Nature 2-3 days for trekking Moderate

Arusha National Park

This compact park offers a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. It's a great place for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Serengeti National Park

One of the most famous national parks in the world, the Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife.

Nature Full day to multi-day safari Expensive

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife.

Nature Full day to multi-day safari Expensive

Tarangire National Park

Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire offers a unique safari experience.

Nature Full day Moderate

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

This center showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania, with a focus on the Maasai and other local tribes.

Cultural 1-2 hours Low

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali

A thick porridge made from cornmeal, often served with stews or sauces.

Staple food Vegetarian

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, often served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad).

Main dish Contains meat

Pilau

A spiced rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat

Mandazi

Sweet fried dough, often served with tea.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Trekking Mount Meru Safari in Serengeti National Park Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti Visit Lake Momella Coffee tasting at local cafes Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visit Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre Cultural tour of Mto wa Mbu

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season, offering the best wildlife viewing conditions. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F