population: 0.5 million

extension: 29,623 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Arusha and interested in visiting museums, I would recommend the Tanzanite Experience Museum, which is dedicated to showcasing the history and cultural significance of Tanzanite gemstones. For similar museum experiences, you might also consider visiting the Olduvai Gorge Museum, located about 3 hours away from Arusha, which explores human evolution and the archaeological discoveries made at the nearby Olduvai Gorge site. Another option is the Arusha Declaration Museum, which highlights the history of Tanzania's political and social development.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Arusha, Tanzania include:

1. Ugali: a staple food made from maize flour, often served with meat or vegetable stew.

2. Nyama Choma: grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned with spices and served with side dishes such as ugali and vegetables.

3. Mishkaki: skewered and grilled meat, similar to kebabs.

4. Pilau: a rice dish flavored with spices such as cumin, cardamom, and turmeric, often served with meat or vegetable curry.

5. Chapati: a type of flatbread made from wheat flour, typically served with stews or curries.

6. Samosas: fried or baked pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables.

7. Mandazi: a sweet pastry similar to donuts, often served with tea for breakfast or as a snack.

Activities

Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Arusha include:

1. Hiking Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and a popular alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro.

2. Visiting nearby national parks such as Tarangire National Park or Lake Manyara National Park for wildlife watching and safari experiences.

3. Exploring the vibrant Maasai Market, which offers an array of local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Tanzanian food.

4. Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, where you can see the stunning landscapes and wildlife from above.

5. Spending a day at Meserani Snake Park, which features a reptile house, crocodile park, and camel rides.

6. Learning about the local culture by visiting a Maasai village, where you can meet the tribe members and learn about their way of life.

7. Relaxing and swimming at the beautiful Arusha National Park located on the slopes of Mount Meru.