Arusha is especially popular because of its starting point for the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire-Nationalpark. But on the other side also worth a stay for at least two days.
Mostly visited to start here to different safari and adventurous tours. For us, it was a bit messy, the entire city. We often recognized many traffic jams, rainy weather, and police checking the cars (or if Boda Boda takes two people simultaneously, haha. Often we needed to make an extra loop). However, we found a very simple guesthouse in the center to reach local food places and bars.
This city offers excellent nightlife and lots of options to eat and drink during the day. However, the Arusha bus stand is messy as hell! Getting a bus ticket there to go to the next city was always a challenge. The sellers would even stop your Boda Boda to drag you to their bus office. Trying to sell you everything and then as often more expensive tickets.
Kibo Palace Hotel
A good hotel with stable Wifi and a very comfortable area to hang out. Good service and acceptable prices. A bit outside of Arusha but easy to reach with a Boda Boda in around 15 minutes.
Kijenge Juu Street
On this street, in a corner, you will find the Kivuruge Pub, a pub for karaoke and spending a good party night. It has two floors, first floor, sitting area with a stage to dance and sing karaoke. The second floor to play pool and another bar.
Wachaga Street
You will find all those fantastic outside sitting areas to eat and drink and party along this street. We went to the Washington Bar Arusha. They had live music, and I spent lots of time there. It was packed, even in the middle of the week. Also, it was challenging to find a place to sit during these days. No tourists! As far as you would look, we have been the only ones.
In General
You will find a lot of amazing street food along with the center area with great bars and clubs to party, listen to live music and get in contact with people. Travel blogs may say it is not advisable to walk around at night. True, but still, be not naive and don't carry valuables with you. We would still walk around and avoid some strangers and it was all good.
Central and Kilombero Market
This central market is another amazing place to find handcraftet designs and work. Again dont be shy to haggle. They almost expect you to do so! Beware of pickpockets, though. And then enjoy the fascinating stroll around this area.
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