Why Safari Travellers Choose Arusha Before Serengeti
Arusha is the logistical capital of the Northern Safari Circuit. A night or two in a quiet Arusha apartment is the calm before the road begins.
- ·Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Lake Manyara are all reached by road from Arusha.
- ·One night before departure absorbs flight delays and lets you meet your guide unhurried.
- ·A post safari night gives a soft landing, laundry and a proper shower before flying home.
- ·Space to repack into soft safari bags matters more than most travellers expect.
Almost every Northern Tanzania safari begins or ends in Arusha. Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara are all reached by road from the city, and most operators stage their vehicles, guides and supplies here.
The logistics
- ·Kilimanjaro International Airport is roughly 45 minutes away and handles most long haul arrivals
- ·Arusha Airport handles light aircraft transfers into the Serengeti
- ·Tarangire is around two hours by road, the Ngorongoro gate around three
- ·Operators brief guests, load vehicles and depart from the city in the early morning
Why the night before matters
A pre safari night in Arusha lets travellers adjust to the time zone, meet their guide and repack into safari bags without rushing. Long haul arrivals rarely land rested, and a 6am departure straight from the airport is a poor start to an expensive trip.
It also builds in a buffer. If a connecting flight is delayed, one spare night in Arusha usually protects the whole itinerary.
Why the night after matters
A post safari night gives a slow landing after long days on the road. Dust settles, laundry gets done, and there is time for a last market visit or a quiet dinner before the flight home.
What to do with a spare day
- ·Cultural Heritage Centre for crafts and Tanzanite
- ·The Maasai Market for gifts, with a guide if you prefer fixed prices
- ·A coffee farm tour on the slopes of Mount Meru
- ·A short walk at Lake Duluti or a half day in Arusha National Park
Packing notes
- ·Soft duffel bags are required on light aircraft transfers, typically 15kg per person
- ·Neutral colours for game drives, warm layers for early mornings on the crater rim
- ·Leave city luggage behind, most Arusha stays will store a suitcase for you during your safari
Olive Homes is a natural Arusha base for safari travellers, ten minutes from many operators' offices, with secure parking for safari vehicles and a quiet garden to return to.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I store luggage in Arusha while on safari?
- Yes. Guests returning to Olive Homes after their safari can leave a suitcase with us and travel with a soft bag only.
- How many nights should I spend in Arusha?
- One night before and one night after your safari is the usual recommendation. Two nights before is safer if you are arriving on a long haul flight.
Airport Pickup and Drop Off with Olive Homes Arusha
We arrange airport pickup and drop off for guests arriving at Kilimanjaro International or Arusha Airport, so the first and last part of your trip is already handled.
Safari Assistance by Olive Homes
Staying with us means you do not have to work out the safari market alone. We help guests plan, compare and book game drives, day trips and cultural experiences from Arusha.
What Is Included in My Stay at Olive Homes
A clear list of what comes with every apartment at Olive Homes, from 24/7 security and support to daily housekeeping, Wi-Fi, parking, the garden and the rooftop lounge.