Essence of Arusha City Tour
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Essence of Arusha City Tour

Active
(5 reviews)
3h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A simply must do experience while in arusha that involves an insightful experience visit Shanga, an Elewana initiative based at Arusha Coffee Lodge where physically challenged craftspeople create beautiful necklaces from recycled powder glass beads. This is an incredible business venture that retails throughout Tanzania and abroad, and helps so many deaf and disabled people earn a salary who otherwise would have nothing. After an informative tour of the colorful workshop, you can spend the afternoon browsing the city’s Maasai Market and Cultural Heritage Center for traditional handicrafts and getting to know the locals life style.

Available options

Essence of Arusha City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Snacks

Detailed itinerary

1

The Tanzanite experience tour also gives you a chance to browse through an impressive collection of masks and sculpted animals at Cultural Heritage Centre, a gallery of sculpture and traditional handicrafts as well as a curio shop. This private establishment run by an England-educated tourism pioneer features a jewelry boutique, restaurant, and a shop selling carvings, gemstones, and books. U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, Norwegian King Harald, and U.S. Secretary of State James Baker have all paid a visit here. Inspect the collection of modern art and traditional crafts from Tanzania's 120-plus tribes, and then browse the gift store for classy souvenirs. 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

2

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 decor 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

During this full day excursion, you will also get a chance to explore Bangata Waterfalls which is on the foothill of Mount Meru. You will be lead through a number of small agricultural villages with lush landscapes, where the locals sell a variety of goods such as coffee, maize, bananas and other types of fruits and vegetables. Upon arrival at the waterfall entrance, you will be welcomed with a beautiful landscape filled with avocado plantation and fish ponds, where you’ll get a chance to learn about the cultivation till the time they are ready to be exported. On the way as you descend to the waterfall, you’ll get a chance to feed the fishes on their large fish ponds before reaching the magnificent natural wonder. Enjoy the cool waterfall mist and relax in a beautifully shaded area while taking in the sites. Be sure to bring your camera to take some breathtaking photos!

4

Maasai Market is a sensational sensory experience. Thrust into a slice of whirling Tanzanian life have your wits about you and prepare to barter. A fabulously lively atmosphere offers an abundance of sellers peddling their wares of exotic fruit, coffee, nuts and spices. If you are on the hunt for carefully crafted African art, sculptures and artifacts, head to the Cultural Heritage craft mall for the best pieces in the city.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea
Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We request travelers to send us their location and we can reach them for pick up.

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

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Swahili, English
  • Widely spoken: Swahili, English, Maasai
  • English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with exercise of caution

Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides
  • • Avoid displaying valuables in public

Getting there

By air
  • Arusha Airport • 4 km from city center
  • Kilimanjaro International Airport • 45 km from Arusha
By bus

Arusha Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Daladala are minibuses that are the primary mode of public transport in Arusha. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Arusha Themi Ngurdoto

Day trips

Lake Manyara National Park
126 km from Arusha • Full day

Known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos.

Mount Kilimanjaro
70 km from Arusha • Multi-day trek

The highest peak in Africa, offering challenging treks and breathtaking views.

Mto wa Mbu
30 km from Arusha • Half day

A vibrant village known for its cultural diversity and traditional markets.

Festivals

Arusha International Film Festival • July Maasai Cultural Festival • Varies, typically during the dry season Arusha Festival of Lights • December

Pro tips

  • Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
  • Hire a reputable guide for trekking and safaris
  • Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your cultural experience
  • Carry small denominations for markets and tipping
  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-29
1
Childs
Age 6-12
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 5
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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