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.
Arusha is well-connected to East Africa's major cities by air and road. Within the city, public minibuses (dala dalas) are cheap but crowded; taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for tourists. Safari vehicles from tour operators are the primary mode for reaching national parks.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Kilimanjaro Jro
- Arusha Ark
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Dala Dala
Colourful minibuses that are the primary public transport for locals. Extremely cheap but often crowded and schedules are informal. Routes cover all main city areas.
- Cost
- TZS 500–1,000 per journey
- Routes available
- City Centre to Njiro, Usa River, Sakina, Stadium, Tengeru
- Tips
- Know your stop — shout 'shuka' to get off
- Hold on and watch your belongings
- Not recommended for visitors with heavy luggage
Bajaji
Three-wheeled auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) common in and around Arusha for short trips. Cheap and convenient for short urban distances.
- Cost
- TZS 2,000–8,000 per trip
- Availability
- Throughout the city
- Tips
- Agree price before boarding
- Useful for short hops in traffic
Boda Boda
Motorcycle taxis that weave through traffic quickly. Helmet provision is variable; only recommended for those comfortable on motorbikes.
- Cost
- TZS 2,000–5,000 per short trip
- Tips
- Ask for a helmet
- Not recommended for tourists with valuables or luggage
Walking
The city centre is compact and walkable within a roughly 1.5 km radius of the Clock Tower. Main attractions and restaurants are within walking distance.
- Safe areas
- City Centre, Njiro, Sakina during daylight
- Caution
- Avoid walking alone after dark in areas beyond the main streets
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Apps Available
- Bolt (formerly Taxify) — most widely used, Uber — launched in Arusha (limited coverage), Local WhatsApp-based taxi groups
- Negotiation
- Always agree the price before getting in if not using an app
- Typical City Fare
- TZS 10,000–25,000 (USD 4–10) within city
- Reputable Companies
- Arusha Taxi Services, Quick Cab, Lodge-arranged taxis
- Tips
- Hotel staff can always recommend trusted drivers, Pre-arrange airport taxis the evening before early flights, WhatsApp groups connect reliable local drivers
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Nairobi Kenya
- Distance
- 270 km
- Options
- Riverside Shuttle (door-to-door, 5–6 hours, USD 20–30)
- Impala Shuttle (USD 25–35)
- Public bus (slower; border formalities)
- Charter flight
- Border
- Namanga Border Post — bring passport and both entry visas
Moshi
- Distance
- 80 km
- Options
- Shared minibus from central bus stand (TZS 3,000–5,000, 1.5 hours)
- Taxi (USD 40–60)
- Shuttle services
- Notes
- Moshi is the base for Kilimanjaro climbs — easy day or overnight trip from Arusha
Dar Es Salaam
- Distance
- 650 km
- Options
- Bus (Dar Express, Scandinavian: USD 15–25, 9–11 hours)
- Domestic flight via Precision Air or Coastal (1h 15m, USD 80–180)
- Train (TAZARA — infrequent)
- Notes
- Flying is recommended for comfort; overnight buses are also available
Zanzibar
- Options
- Fly from ARK (Arusha Airport, 1 hour, USD 80–150)
- Bus to Dar + ferry (very long — not recommended for most travellers)
- Notes
- Direct charter flights from Arusha Airport are the most practical option
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Arusha Airport
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Bolt
Google Maps
Maps.me
Flutterwave/M-Pesa
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Get a Tanzanian SIM card immediately on arrival — Bolt app and maps require data
Pre-arrange Kilimanjaro Airport transfers before arrival to avoid overcharging at the arrivals hall
Dala dalas are authentic and cheap but not practical with luggage — only use with a small daypack
The Riverside Shuttle between Arusha and Nairobi is reliable and departs twice daily
Arusha Airport (ARK) is very close to the city — use it for domestic connections
Always carry small denomination TZS notes for transport and market purchases
Safari operators will collect from hotels at no extra charge — confirm pickup time the evening before