"Kilimanjaro, Hakuna Matata | Kilimanjaro, No Worries"
About:
Arusha, a city in Tanzania, was officially established in 1900 by German East Africa. It served as a key administrative center under both German and British colonial rule. After Tanzania's independence in 1961, Arusha grew rapidly and became a major industrial and political hub. It hosted the 1967 Arusha Declaration and the 1993 Arusha Accords, significant events in Tanzanian and Rwandan history respectively. Today, Arusha remains a vital economic center and is a gateway to major safari destinations.
When to visit:
The ideal time to visit Arusha, Tanzania on holiday is during the dry season, which typically falls between the months of June to October. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and lower chances of rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as safaris and hiking. Additionally, wildlife viewing is at its best during this time as animals gather around water sources due to the dry conditions. Travelers should plan their visit well in advance as this is peak tourist season in Arusha, ensuring availability of accommodations and preferred tour packages.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Arusha, Tanzania on a holiday is during the long rainy season, which typically occurs from March to May. During this time, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, muddy roads, and difficult travel conditions. Sightseeing activities such as safaris may be limited due to the wet weather, and some attractions may be closed. It is advisable to avoid planning a holiday trip to Arusha during the long rainy season to ensure a more enjoyable and seamless travel experience.
Rainy Season (Mar-May)
In Arusha, Tanzania, the coldest and wettest period is from March to May, during the long rainy season. The average temperature ranges between 15°C to 20°C. Rainfall is heavy, averaging 200mm per month, with overcast skies and occasional sunshine. The humidity is high, making the air feel cooler. A typical day for a visitor would likely involve indoor activities or exploring the city in rain gear, as sudden downpours are common. Despite the rain, the lush, green landscape provides a spectacular view.
"Hot Season (December–February)"
In Arusha, Tanzania, the warmest part of the year typically spans from December to March. During these months, average high temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Rainfall is relatively low during this period, particularly in January and February, making it the dry season. However, the region may experience short rain showers.
Sunlight is abundant with an average of 9 to 10 hours of daylight per day. Humidity levels vary, but they are generally moderate, ranging from 50% to 60%. Cloudiness varies as well, with some days being clear and others having a fair amount of cloud cover.
For a visitor, a typical day in Arusha during the warmest part of the year is quite pleasant. Mornings often start cool and crisp, warming up as the day progresses. The afternoons can be hot but are often tempered by a light breeze. The evenings are comfortably cool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Despite being the warmest part of the year, the heat is usually not oppressive, making it a great time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Language:
Swahili and English are the most commonly spoken languages in Arusha, Tanzania. Swahili is the national language of Tanzania and is used widely in daily communication. English, being the official language of instruction in secondary and higher education, is also prevalent. Additionally, due to the city's diverse ethnic groups, local languages such as Maasai are also spoken.