what to do while in Arusha/ day trips /two days/culture tour
1. Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is located about 60 km from Arusha town and it is home to Mt. Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. The national park features diverse range of wildlife including buffalo, giraffe, elephants, baboons, leopards, bushbucks, and hippos. You’ll also discover a wide range of activities to enjoy such as game drives, canoeing, walking tours, hiking, and mountain trekking. The park is known for its remarkable botanical and geographical areas, featuring picturesque lakes, beautiful volcanic crater and magnificent landscapes. Arusha National Park is the most accessible national park in the country.
2. The Cultural Heritage Centre
The Cultural Heritage Centre is a great place to discover and explore the cultures of the people of Arusha. The centre features a good collection of arts and artefacts that showcase the present and past stories of the tribes of Tanzania. You’ll find several attractions in the centre such as curio shops, jewellery boutique, Tanzanite and precious stone counter, art gallery, bargain centre and a restaurant. There are several shops selling arts and crafts, textiles, books, handmade jewellery, and African antiques; you can purchase some souvenirs for your friends and family. You can also have a taste of delicious local meals in Arusha at the restaurant on site.
3. National Natural History Museum
Located in the Old Boma – a former German colonial military complex, the National Natural History Museum features a collection of exhibits, which depict human evolution and historical findings. You’ll also see a display of a variety of insects, a collection of animal and plants photos on the wall – taken by a renowned photographer, Dick Persson. The museum also features the history of the German colonial administration in Northern Tanzania, you’ll have an opportunity to read facts and see photos illustrating the regime period.
4. Africafe
For a hearty breakfast or satisfying lunch, Africafe promises a meal to remember. The restaurant features European-café vibes and a lip-smacking menu to match, as well as Free Wi-Fi. If you’re craving for tasty sandwiches in a sprawling town of Arusha, this restaurant is a place to be. The menu also features burgers and chips, spinach & mushroom tramazini, grilled meats, pastries and cakes, coffee and a wide selection of drinks. It’s a great place to chill and relax with friends.
5. Kilombero Market
Kilombero is one of the major markets in Arusha, which features a wide variety of spices and fresh fruits, Maasai handcrafts, carvings, jewellery and local textiles. The market is colourful and it’s the best place to get a glimpse of the local life in the town. Exploring Kilombero is a memorable experience; if you’re buying anything, you should be ready to haggle for better prices. You should also beware of pickpockets – hold your bags and purses closer.
6. Via Via Cafe
For enjoyable nightlife in Arusha, you should visit Via Via and be entertained into the wee hours. Parties at Via Via are legendary, it features live music on Thursday nights, DJ playing music and karaoke on other nights. For a nightcap, clubbing or a boogie, Via Via is a lively place loved by both locals and expats.
7. Lake Duluti
Enjoy a day trip to Lake Duluti from Arusha. The Crater Lake is about 20-minute drive from the town, and with Mt.Meru as its backdrop. The lake region features a wide range of activities such as walking tours, canoeing and bird watching. The surrounding forests are home to several reptiles and birds. Lake Duluti is a bird-watcher’s dream, home to water birds such as fish eagles, ospreys, kingfisher, egrets, cormorants and grey herons.
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