Practical Tips & Hacks: Arusha

Money-Saving Strategies

Travel in Arusha need not break the bank. Smart choices contribute to cost efficiency.

Discount Cards

No common tourist discount cards or multi-attraction passes are available for Arusha attractions or national parks.
Park fees are fixed for non-residents.

Free Activities

Walk around Arusha city center (with caution) to soak in the atmosphere.
Visit the bustling Arusha Central Market to observe local life and browse.
Enjoy the views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro from various vantage points.
Explore local neighborhoods on foot during the day.

Dining Deals

Some mid-range restaurants and bars might present happy hour specials.
Occasional dining deals might be available.
Inquire at your hotel for recommendations.
Eat Locally: Opt for "mama ntilie" for authentic, affordable meals.

Transportation Savings

Dala-dalas: For local transport, they cost less than taxis.
Shared Shuttles: Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) transfers are more affordable than private taxis.
Accommodation alternatives: Hostels, guesthouses, or camping cost less than safari lodges.
Booking accommodations slightly outside main tourist areas presents better value.

Bargaining & Water

These practices contribute to smart money management and health during your trip.

Bargaining Practices

Bargaining is common and expected in local markets (e.g., Maasai Market).
Negotiate taxi fares before starting your ride.
Start with a lower offer and work your way up politely.
Bargaining is not appropriate for fixed-price items in supermarkets.

Water Consumption

Never drink tap water.
Always stick to bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues.
Purchase large bottles of water from supermarkets.
Refill your reusable water bottle; this costs less and benefits the environment.

Bargaining for Goods

Local markets often expect polite haggling.
Do not haggle in supermarkets or higher-end shops.
Aim for a fair price beneficial to both parties.
Fixed prices exist in modern retail settings.

Currency Considerations

Always carry small denominations of Tanzanian Shillings.
This supports small purchases and tipping.
It avoids situations where vendors might claim no change.
While USD is accepted for large payments, local currency is useful for everyday expenses.

Local Dining & Water

Embrace local culinary experiences and manage your hydration wisely.

Local Food Stalls

Opt for "mama ntilie" (local food stalls/small restaurants).
They offer authentic, delicious, and very affordable meals.
Local options present better value than tourist-oriented restaurants.
Taste genuine Tanzanian cuisine.

Water Safety

Always prioritize bottled or purified water.
Drinking tap water can cause health issues.
Carry a reusable bottle and refill from large purchased bottles.
This practice reduces plastic waste and costs.

Local Market Bargaining

Bargaining is expected for goods in local markets.
Engage politely to find a mutually acceptable price.
This practice applies to souvenirs and crafts.
Do not attempt to bargain in modern stores or supermarkets.

Tanzanian Shillings

Carry small denominations of Tanzanian Shillings for convenience.
This facilitates payments for small purchases and local transport.
It avoids situations where vendors may claim no change for large bills.
While USD is accepted for large payments, local currency is useful.

Time-Saving Tips Overview

Efficient planning maximizes your time in Arusha, especially for short or packed trips.

Streamlined Entry

For national park entry, reputable tour operators handle all permits and fees in advance.
This supports smoother entry into parks.
It avoids long queues at park gates.
Confirm with your operator.

Optimal Visiting Times

Arusha National Park: Visit early morning for prime wildlife viewing.
Arusha Central Market: Visiting earlier means fewer crowds and fresher produce.
Tanzanite Shopping: Weekday mornings are generally quieter at places like the Cultural Heritage Centre.
Plan visits strategically.

Expedited Transport

Internal flights (e.g., Arusha Airport to Serengeti airstrips) save substantial time.
This greatly surpasses long overland drives.
While more expensive, this maximizes your time for game viewing.
Work with a reputable tour operator for optimized routing.

Pre-Booking Advantages

Book safaris, Kilimanjaro/Meru treks, and high-season accommodations well in advance.
This secures your spot, often at better rates.
It avoids last-minute scrambling.

Consolidate City Sightseeing

Plan to visit the Cultural Heritage Centre, Maasai Market, and Clock Tower together. Their relative proximity supports efficient travel between attractions, maximizing your time.

Local Insights & Travel Advice

These insights cover common tourist pitfalls and essential local customs for a rewarding visit.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Learn from typical errors: not bargaining, drinking tap water, ignoring customs, giving money to children, underestimating travel times, and only using USD.

Local Customs & Politeness

Greetings are paramount. Embrace "Pole pole" (slowly, slowly). Show respect to elders with "Shikamoo." Be mindful of personal space.

Impress Locals with Swahili

Using a few Swahili phrases like "Asante sana" (thank you very much), "Shikamoo," and "Tafadhali" (please) will be highly appreciated.

Advice by Traveler Type

Solo Traveler Safety & Social Opportunities

Arusha is generally safe, but exercise extra caution at night.
Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services after dark.
Stay in hostels or guesthouses with communal areas to meet other travelers. Join group safaris.

Family-Friendly Adaptations & Kid Tips

Many lodges and safari camps are family-friendly, offering triple or connecting rooms.
Consider a private safari vehicle for flexibility with kids' schedules.
Pack plenty of snacks, entertainment, and sun protection suitable for children.

Accessibility Considerations

If traveling with mobility challenges or other special needs, plan well in advance. Engage with specialized tour operators who have experience arranging accessible travel in Tanzania. Clearly communicate all requirements to your tour operator and accommodation providers to support necessary arrangements or advice on limitations.

Practical Tips & Hacks