Arusha is Tanzania's northern safari capital and a vibrant gateway city perched on the lower slopes of Mount Meru. Sitting at roughly 1,400 metres above sea level, the region blends bustling urban energy with dramatic highland scenery and world-class wildlife destinations on its doorstep.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Arusha National Park Safari
Arusha National Park is ideal for families with children as it offers close-up encounters with non-dangerous wildlife (giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, colobus monkeys) at affordable rates and only 25 km from the city. Walking safaris with rangers provide exciting education about tracks, plants, and animal behaviour.
Duration: Half or full day
Meserani Snake Park
Children are fascinated by the live snake demonstrations at Meserani, where expert handlers introduce visitors to East African snakes — safely behind glass or during controlled handling sessions. The crocodile enclosure and tortoise area are equally engaging. The Maasai Museum is educational and accessible for older children.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Lake Duluti Canoe Safari
A paddling adventure on a beautiful crater lake surrounded by forest, with hippos visible from a respectful distance and kingfishers and fish eagles performing aerial displays overhead. The 90-minute canoe tour is accessible to children 8+ with a life jacket and a calm canoe guide.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Tengeru Sunday Market
The vibrant Sunday market at Tengeru is a cultural adventure for the whole family — livestock pens with goats and cattle, towers of tropical fruit, Maasai traders in traditional dress, and a cacophony of sounds and colours that is thoroughly stimulating for children.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Shanga Workshop Tour
The Shanga social enterprise employs disabled Tanzanians to create beautiful products from recycled materials. The glass-blowing furnace and weaving looms are fascinating for children, and the social justice story is powerful and accessible for families with older children. The beautiful garden cafe is relaxed enough for all ages.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Maasai Cultural Village Visit
A visit to an authentic Maasai boma (homestead) provides children with a memorable window into a completely different way of life. Children often particularly enjoy the jumping dances (adumu), meeting young Maasai children, and the explanation of how Maasai houses are built and how cattle are central to Maasai identity.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
For families with children aged 8+, a day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth. The contained nature of the crater means exceptionally close animal encounters — lions, elephants, and flamingo-fringed lakes — with near-guaranteed Big Five sightings.
Duration: Full day (depart 06:00)
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Coffee plantation setting with spacious suites, pool, and educational coffee tours. Children love the farm animal encounters.
Family features: Family suites, Pool, Coffee farm exploration, Nature walks
Rivertrees Country Inn
Riverside farm lodge with space for children to explore safely. Family rooms and excellent food.
Family features: Farm environment, River access, Family rooms, Garden
Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge
Forested lodge with wildlife in the garden and heated pool. Very suitable for families.
Family features: Swimming pool, Wildlife garden, Interconnecting rooms, Family suites
Ilboru Safari Lodge
Comfortable mid-range lodge with pool and garden — excellent value for families on a budget.
Family features: Swimming pool, Garden, Family rooms, Safari atmosphere
Arusha Backpackers
The private rooms and family dorms are acceptable for budget family travel; central location and social atmosphere.
Family features: Private family rooms, Central location, Budget-friendly
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Most mid-range and upmarket restaurants happily accommodate children with smaller portions or adjustments — ask staff
Local canteens are excellent for children — ugali, beans, and grilled chicken are all mild and well-received
Africafe and Via Via are the most family-friendly city restaurants with good children's options
Fresh tropical fruit from the market (mango, papaya, watermelon) makes an excellent healthy snack
Avoid tap water for children — bottled water only throughout the trip
Milk is available in cartons from Shoprite Njiro; yoghurt and dairy are available at supermarkets
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Most reputable safari operators consider children 8+ suitable for standard game drives; some accept younger children on private vehicle tours
Child-friendly malaria prophylaxis is essential — consult a paediatric travel doctor before departure
Sun protection is critical — children burn faster at Arusha's altitude (1,400m), even on cloudy days
Insect repellent should be applied at dawn and dusk at lodges
Pack portable snacks for long safari drives — biscuits, dried fruit, and energy bars
Children's car seats are generally not available in safari vehicles — bring a travel booster seat if needed
Many lodges have a no-children policy in public areas after 20:00 for other guests' comfort — check before booking
The Kilimanjaro Marathon (March) in nearby Moshi is an inspiring event for sporty families to witness