Arusha is located around one hour from Kilimanjaro Airport, the main port of entry into northern Tanzania, and is the gateway to the northern safari circuit. Whilst the city has some places of interest, including the cultural heritage centre and Arusha National Park, Arusha is predominantly used as a starting point to explore the likes of Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. Arusha National Park is certainly pleasant and features a nice range of diverse wildlife, meaning it is worth visiting if you are not under time restraints, however it is often omitted from northern Tanzania itineraries to make the most of time and money.
An overnight stay in Arusha following international flights is recommended, helping to ensure that you are well rested for your safari adventure. There are multiple options of smaller boutique style hotels to choose from, where you can sit back and enjoy a drink at sunset with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background before heading to bed to prepare for your adventure ahead!