Once a small trading post, its only significance due to its geographical position in the centre of Africa, mid way between the Cape and Cairo, Arusha is today an agricultural town and the comfortable base for all safaris in the northern part of Tanzania. The Arusha National Park, just outside the city is a string of lovely lakes with a miniature volcanic crater hidden in a forest of mahogany and olive on the slopes of Mount Meru.

Arusha National Park (137km²), has terrain ranging from open savannah through acacia scrublands to Afro-montane cloud and rain forest, and Afro-alpine vegetation similar to Mount Kilimanjaro. There are several alkaline lakes, and the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater is unmissable. Mammal species include elephant, buffalo, various primates, giraffe and leopard. Hiking is allowed if accompanied by an armed guard, and the climb up Mount Meru is superb, often giving the best views available of Mount Kilimanjaro. At 4,556m, Mount Meru is the fifth highest mountain in Africa, and although it can be climbed in two days, it is far better to give it three days or more. Because of the low density of tourism, the chances of seeing forest animals and, especially, primates like black and white colobus monkeys, are far better. Take similar kit to that needed for Kilimanjaro, although it is significantly warmer on the summit.