Souvenir Shopping in Tanzania

Road vs Flight - The Journey from Arusha City to Serengeti Central

The Places You'll Stay on an African Safari in Tanzania

Arusha is a vibrant city in northern Tanzania, renowned as the safari capital due to its proximity to some of the world's most famous national parks and reserves, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha's moderate climate and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination in its own right. The city serves as a crucial hub for international and local tourists embarking on wildlife safaris and mountaineering adventures. Its bustling markets, colonial-era buildings, and local Maasai crafts offer a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Tanzania.

Arusha is generally safe for tourists, with usual precautions advised. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid are recommended, alongside malaria prophylaxis.

Safety & Vaccinations

The city is a major tourist hub, easily reachable by road from Nairobi or via flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport, followed by a short drive

Getting There

Local taxis, buses, and tour company vehicles are the main modes of transport within Arusha and to nearby attractions.

Getting Around

Visitors to Tanzania can obtain a visa on arrival or an eVisa online before travel. Those climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting national parks should ensure their visa covers the duration of their stay.

Visas

Arusha

The rooms all have individual lock boxes to store personal items.

In-Room Lockable Box

Hot Water Showers

Swimming Pool

There is a lounge and bar at this property. 

Lounge & Bar

Laundry Service

This property has a gift shop on the premises.

Gift Shop

Wifi

The closest airport to this lodge is Arusha Airport (ARK) - which is only 15 minutes away.

By road, the lodge is roughly 90 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), 2 hours from Tarangire National Park, and 4 hours from Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Legendary Lodge

Very Beautiful. The location is very nice and the staff is always helpful and friendly.
It’s also a nice place for children much space to play with a ball or something like that.
I rate it a 10-10.

Wonderful!

From the moment your greeter collects you at the airport, to the moment you leave, you're in good hands.

Accommodations are well-appointed, spacious and comfortable.

The food is delicious.

The waitstaff is attentive.

The grounds are beautiful.

Amazing and accommodating staff. Stayed before and after hiking Kilimanjaro and it was absolutely worth it! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. The grounds are beautiful, food is great, rooms are huge! Would absolutely stay here again.

The place is great with nice reception😊

Fantastic and friendly service. Five star quality. I’ve of the most peaceful and quiet hotels we’ve ever had the pleasure of staying. The food is top rate.

Legendary Lodge's tranquil coffee plantation setting immerses guests in the beauty of Mount Meru's foothills while offering captivating coffee tours

Serving as a gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit, Legendary Lodge provides convenient access to Tanzania's renowned National Parks for wildlife exploration

Relish exceptional comfort in well-appointed cottages and indulge in a delectable culinary experience featuring a blend of international and local flavors

Legendary Lodge boasts a collection of elegant and spacious rooms designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. The ten private cottages and two generously sized family cottages offer a serene escape, each adorned with oversized beds and romantic billowing mosquito nets. The rooms feature a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary decor, exuding a sense of African charm while providing all the modern amenities one would expect from Arusha's finest lodge. With attention to detail and a focus on guest well-being, Legendary Lodge's accommodations ensure a restful and enjoyable stay amidst the picturesque surroundings of this enchanting coffee plantation in Tanzania.

There are hair dryers in the rooms of this property

Hair Dryer

From Arusha's domestic airport, the property is a 10 minute drive.

This property is located within Arusha city.

Located in expansive tropical gardens with Mount Meru in the background

An excellent starting point for a safari to the national parks of Tanzania

Only 10 minutes to Arusha’s domestic airport

Katambuga House

Katambuga House offers a total of eight well-appointed rooms, each designed to provide a high standard of accommodation and service. These rooms are both airy and well-lit, creating a welcoming and comfortable ambiance. As guests step out onto the covered verandas, they are greeted with serene garden views and stunning vistas that extend into the distance, making it an ideal spot to unwind before or after embarking on a thrilling safari adventure. The rooms feature spacious en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, ensuring a relaxing and refreshing experience. Additionally, the rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including electric combination safes, hair dryers, ceiling fans, mosquito nets for a peaceful night's sleep, a convenient writing desk, and a cozy sitting corner. These thoughtfully designed rooms provide a tranquil haven for travelers seeking comfort and rejuvenation in the heart of Tanzania's natural beauty.

By flight, you can get a regular chartered flights to Arusha or Kilimanjaro international airport

By road, Kahawa House is 51 km away from Kilimanjaro international airport and will take just over an hour to get to

Kahawa House

We experienced a lot of mosquitoes here and surprisingly it was the only hotel we visited that didn't have mosquito nets around the beds. There is a pool here but other than that not a whole lot to do.

It is well designed and the best place to be.
I love this Hotel.

Really nice hotel close to Arusha Downtown. Welcoming staff and good room (keep in mind that the Kilimanjaro International Airport is far from everything, so it will take you like 1h 20 min to get there)

A lovely place to stay with excellent service and facilities. The food is wonderful too. Great stop off spot before or after a Safari or even a great place to stay for a business trip. Highly recommend this Arusha spot.

Great place to stay in arusha.

Big and totally refurbished rooms with great service.

The Only thing is that It is almost 1 hour to kilimanjaro airport so you might plan un advance when to leave

 Nestled amid lush landscapes with views of Mount Meru, the resort offers a stunning natural backdrop for guests

The resort's diverse menu showcases both Tanzanian and international cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience

Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites provide modern comforts and elegant decor for a relaxing stay

Kahawa House - Arusha

The house offers a collection of beautifully appointed rooms that seamlessly blend comfort and elegance. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring modern amenities and tasteful decor, creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for guests. With attention to detail, the rooms offer a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure or business meetings in Arusha. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, ensuring a serene and rejuvenating stay. Whether you choose a standard room or a luxurious suite, Kahawa House provides a cozy and inviting home away from home for all types of travelers.

JRO to Manyara Region

Today you'll be exploring the famous Ngorongoro Crater!

Ngorongoro Crater Tour

Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park

Explore Serengeti National Park

Today you'll head back toward the Manyara region for your overnight accommodation with a game drive on route.

Serengeti National Park to Manyara Region

Today you'll be dropped off in the Arusha region or at JRO Airport

Drop off in Arusha or JRO Airport

This cost includes your transportation throughout the entire trip with an expert guide.

4x4 Safari Cruiser

These are the fees to enter the National Parks (park, concession, camping, WMA fees, etc.).

Park Fees

6 Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro - Aidan Test

Embark on a thrilling safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro, where lions, elephants, rhinos, and more roam freely amidst stunning African vistas.

Savannah Tours

Today you'll spend your day relaxing at Mount Meru Game Lodge after arriving in Tanzania.

Karibu (welcome to) Tanzania!

Today you'll spend the day exploring Arusha National Park with a walking tour that's guided by a ranger.

Day Exploring Arusha National Park

Today you'll head toward Lake Manyara National Park and Karatu with a special Tuk Tuk activity, and a picnic lunch.

Arusha, Manyara, Karatu + A Tuk Tuk Activity

Today you'll spend the day exploring Ngorongoro Crater!

Ngorongoro Crater

Today you'll head toward Serengeti National Park from Ngorongoro Crater with a game drive on route to your accommodation.

Ngorongoro to Serengeti

Today you'll spend the full day exploring Serengeti National Park!

Explore Serengeti National Park!

Today you'll be flying from Serengeti (Seronera Airstrip) to Arusha (ARK)! The flight check in time is at 9:15am from Seronera Airstrip.

Fly to Zanzibar from Serengeti (Seronera) instead of Arusha (ARK).

Flight to Zanzibar

Serengeti to Arusha by Flight

4x4 Safari Vehicle with Guide

Extra Activities (Tuk Tuk & Ranger in Arusha Park)

Flight from Seronera to ARK (Serengeti to Arusha)

This transfer is one way from JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) to Arusha (or vice versa from Arusha to JRO) and is for a maximum of 6 travellers. If staying at an accommodation (Mount Meru Game Lodge, Melia, or an equivalent around Arusha) this will be your transportation to the accommodation from JRO (or vice versa from your accommodation to JRO). If you need multiple transfers, please add more units (I.e. a transfer from JRO and a transfer back to JRO at the end of your trip).

(JRO to Arusha) Airport Transfer in a 4x4 Safari Cruiser

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis, meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay.

Bed & Breakfast - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a half-board basis, meaning that breakfast and lunch will be included in your stay.

Half Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a full-board basis, meaning that breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be included in your stay.

Full Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

This transfer is one way from JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) to Arusha (or vice versa from Arusha to JRO) and is for a maximum of 4 travellers. If staying at an accommodation (Mount Meru Game Lodge, Melia, or an equivalent around Arusha) this will be your transportation to the accommodation from JRO (or vice versa from your accommodation to JRO). If you need multiple transfers, please add more units (I.e. a transfer from JRO and a transfer back to JRO at the end of your trip).

(JRO - Arusha) Transfer in an Alphard Mini Van

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Gran Melia in Arusha in a Deluxe City View room prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay. This is subject to availability.

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Deluxe City View)

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Gran Melia in Arusha in a Mountain View room prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay. This is subject to availability.

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Mountain View)

7 Days, Arusha, Arusha Park, Manyara, Ngorongoro & Serengeti

Discover lions, elephants, and flamingos as you explore Arusha, Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti on this exciting seven-day safari.

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to Arusha town for an overnight stay at the Gran Melia Arusha Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport

After breakfast, depart from the hotel and drive via Mto Wa Mbu Village, briefly stopping to explore the village before continuing to Lake Manyara National Park for a day of game viewing. A packed lunch will be served. After lunch, enjoy a final game drive before continuing via Karatu town to Ngorongoro, where you will ascend the Crater rim and drive to Ngorongoro Melia Lodge, arriving in the late afternoon. After checking in, proceed to the Crater terrace to enjoy the sunset with a welcome beverage. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.

Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park – Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game viewing. A packed lunch will be provided by the hippo pool. After lunch, enjoy a final game drive before ascending from the Crater and returning to Ngorongoro Melia Lodge in time to enjoy the Lodge’s facilities. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.

After breakfast, depart from the Lodge and drive through the Ngorongoro area, briefly stopping to visit a Maasai Village before continuing to Nabi Hill with en-route game viewing. At Nabi, a packed lunch will be provided. After lunch, enter the Serengeti National Park and continue game viewing en route to Serengeti Melia Lodge, arriving in the late afternoon. After checking in, relax and enjoy the Lodge’s facilities. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.

Ngorongoro – Serengeti National Park

Spend the day game viewing in the Serengeti National Park with morning and afternoon game drives or full-day game drives. Full board accommodation at Serengeti Melia Lodge.

Serengeti National Park

Continue game viewing in the Serengeti National Park with morning and afternoon game drives or full-day game drives. Full board accommodation at Serengeti Melia Lodge.

After breakfast, depart from the Lodge and proceed on your final game drive in the Serengeti National Park en route to Seronera Airport. From there, you will depart on a scheduled flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport to connect to your international flight home, or you may extend your stay and proceed to Zanzibar Island for a beach holiday.

Serengeti – Kilimanjaro Airport – Fly Home / Zanzibar

Flight to Zanzibar (End of Trip)

Safari Transportation

Luxury Northern Tanzanian Safari by Road

Embark on a luxury safari through Northern Tanzania, encountering majestic elephants, lions, and the vibrant ecosystems of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will then provide transportation to the Kibo Palace Hotel in Moshi. Here, you will spend the night resting after a long day of travel.

Kibo Palace Hotel - Executive Room

Kibo Palace Dinner Night 1

Arrival, Karibu Tanzania!

Today is a free day to prepare for tomorrow's marathon and explore the vibrant town Moshi. You will have an opportunity to walk or run the tomorrow's route.

Kibo Palace Dinner Night 2

Relax and Prepare for the Marathon

The day of the marathon! After finishing your race in the morning, you will be heading back to your hotel and having the rest of the day to celebrate the event in town. There will be many events, parties, and music that day to enjoy!

2025 Kili Marathon registration

Kibo Palace Dinner Night 3

Competing in the 2025 Kili Marathon

Dive into the heart of Tanzania with a day packed with breathtaking scenery and wildlife at Lake Manyara National Park, followed by a serene stay at Isoitok Camp Manyara. Begin your journey with a comfortable transfer from Arusha, exploring the diverse ecosystems of Lake Manyara. Marvel at the park's famous tree-climbing lions, vast elephant herds, and over 400 bird species. Conclude your day by unwinding at the eco-friendly Isoitok Camp Manyara, where dinner under the stars awaits. Optional activities offer a personalized touch to your adventure.

Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park to Serengeti National Park

Balloon safari over the Serengeti National Park!

Balloon Safari

Day in the Serengeti

Today you'll embark on a game drive in the Serengeti while on route to Ngorongoro Crater toward your overnight accommodation.

Transfer Day from Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Exploring Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Upgraded accommodation to the following properties.  Manyara Serena Lodge (instead of Isotoki Camp), Serengeti Serena Lodge (instead of Serengeti Kati Kati Camp), and Ngorongoro Serena Lodge (instead of Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge).

Upgraded Safari Accommodation

Vehicle Cost

Add an extra day to the start of the trip to better acclimatize and prepare for your race.

An extra day to the start of the trip to better acclimatize and prepare for your race.

Kibo Palace Hotel Moshi - Extra Pre-Marathon Prep Day

Kili Marathon and Serengeti Safari

Compete in the 2025 Kili marathon and experience in 6 days, view Tanzania's renowned parks and wildlife like lions, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs.

6 Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro

Ideal for safaris with dry weather making wildlife easier to spot.

High Season

Wet season with heavy rains, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes.

Low Season

Short rains, fewer tourists, making it a good time for bird watching.

Shoulder Season

Perfect for safaris and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Meru.

Arusha

Arusha

About Arusha

When to go

Seasons

What to do

Featured Experiences

Souvenir Shopping in Tanzania

Where to stay

Hotels & Lodges

Legendary Lodge

Katambuga House

Kahawa House - Arusha

Related destinations

What to know

Blog

Road vs Flight - The Journey from Arusha City to Serengeti Central

The Places You'll Stay on an African Safari in Tanzania

Frequently Asked Questions