From a walking safari in Arusha National Park to waterfalls, coffee farms and hot springs, these day trips from Arusha suit every interest and energy level.
Arusha is the gateway to northern Tanzania's safari circuit, and many travelers have a spare day before or after their trip. Rather than waiting at the hotel, you can spend it among giraffes, coffee farms or turquoise springs within reach of town.
Our team in Arusha organizes these outings regularly, and the right choice depends on what you want from the day. Here is an honest look at the main options.
Quick tips
- Pick a gentle option like Lake Duluti on the day you arrive.
- Wear sturdy shoes for Materuni and Arusha National Park walks.
- Bring swimwear and a towel for the hot springs.
- Start early if you choose the Tarangire day trip.
- Carry small local currency for village purchases.
Arusha National Park
Just outside town, Arusha National Park packs Mount Meru's forested slopes, the Ngurdoto Crater and the shallow Momella Lakes into a compact area. Black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes, buffalo and flamingos are frequent sightings, and Kilimanjaro is visible on clear days.
Its big advantage is variety of activity. Guided walking safaris with an armed ranger are permitted, and canoeing on one of the Momella Lakes is offered when conditions allow. It is a superb option for anyone who wants to stretch their legs.
Lake Duluti
Lake Duluti is a small crater lake surrounded by forest a short drive from Arusha. A gentle trail circles the water, and canoe trips offer views of Mount Meru and plenty of birdlife.
This is an easy half day, ideal after a long flight when you want fresh air without a big commitment.
Because the lake sits close to town, it also pairs nicely with an afternoon at a local coffee farm or market. Birders should look for kingfishers and fish eagles along the shore.
Materuni waterfall and coffee tour
Materuni is a village on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro above Moshi. A walk through farmland leads to a tall waterfall dropping into a forested gorge, where you can feel the spray on a hot day.
Most visits include a coffee experience with a local family, from roasting beans over a fire to grinding them by hand while singing. Expect a fair bit of walking on uneven paths and a longer drive from Arusha than the closer options.
Hot springs
The Chemka hot springs, also known as Kikuletwa, are a clear, spring-fed pool surrounded by fig trees on the plains between Arusha and Moshi. The water is warm rather than hot and wonderfully refreshing for a swim.
Facilities are basic and the approach road is rough, so this suits travelers happy with a casual, relaxed day out.
Weekends and holidays can be busier with local visitors, so a weekday visit is usually quieter. Small fish nibble at your feet in the shallows, which children tend to find delightful.
A Tarangire day trip
If your time is short but you want a true safari experience, a full-day trip to Tarangire National Park is possible from Arusha. It involves an early start and a long day on the road, roughly two to three hours each way, but rewards you with elephants and baobabs, especially in the dry season.
Bring layers, sunscreen and a packed lunch. We recommend this for travelers who cannot fit an overnight safari into their plans.
- Best for wildlife: Arusha National Park or Tarangire
- Best for relaxation: Lake Duluti or the hot springs
- Best for culture: Materuni coffee and waterfall
Frequently asked questions
Which day trip is best for seeing animals?
Arusha National Park is closest and offers walking and canoeing, while Tarangire gives classic big-game viewing on a longer day. We can help you choose based on your energy and timing.
Can we do a day trip after a Kilimanjaro climb?
Yes, though most climbers prefer something gentle such as the hot springs or Lake Duluti. Save strenuous walks for before your trek.
Are day trips private?
We can arrange private day trips with your own guide and vehicle. Let us know your hotel and preferred start time.
