Arusha Area

Standard / Budget-Friendly Lodges

Planet Lodge
Planet Lodge is our standard lodge in Arusha area before and after Kilimanjaro climbs, and if you need an affordable lodge before or after safari. Although it’s a budget-friendly option, it’s actually rather nice for the budget-conscious traveler. The grounds are spacious and they have a pool, with gorgeous views of Mount Meru (Tanzania's second highest mountain). The food is decent, as are the rooms. Bathrooms have simple stall showers. Sometimes the road nearby can be noisy or dusty, though the wall and plantings which are growing taller help with this. This isn’t a luxury lodge, but is generally much nicer than budget travelers expect. The lodge is set on the outskirts of Arusha; there is a free shuttle into central Arusha that goes in once in the morning and returns in the afternoon (needs to be booked with the lodge at check-in).

Ilboru Safari Lodge
Ilboru Safari Lodge is another reasonably priced/ budget friendly lodge that we like. The rooms are comfortable though simple. Food has been amazing in the past, though due to a recent management change we’ll see what the future holds. You are surrounded by a (sometimes noisy at night) neighborhood of Arusha, yet within the lodge grounds there are lots of trees, flowers, and open space and it feels like an oasis. The bumpy road to the Lodge entrance lets you see a real Tanzanian neighborhood with all the small but colorful shops and services along the way. Downtown Arusha is a short taxi ride away, for those want to explore.

Lower Cost Options
You can ask us about options for backpacking type hostels or cottage rooms run by a nonprofit – these aren’t hotel level but can be good for those on a tight budget who wish to book Arusha-area lodging themselves. We can discount your climb or safari package for any Arusha-area lodge nights not needed

Upgraded Lodges

Mount Meru Game Lodge
Mount Meru Game Lodge is in the countryside of beautiful Usa River village, about 20 minutes outside of Arusha (between Kilimanjaro Airport and Arusha). The Lodge has beautiful grounds and a collection of animals to watch in their sanctuary. If the weather is clear, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro from the terrace! Supper is often served outside by candlelight in the garden. The lodge does not have a pool. A friendly guide from the lodge will take you on free guided Usa River village or forest walk (reserve at the Reception desk).

Arumeru River Lodge
Arumeru River Lodge is in a lovely setting in Usa River village, outside Arusha. The lodge is a few minutes drive through a coffee plantation from the main road, and the rooms are scattered through the property with lots of open space. Small Dik Dik (antelope) may graze by your room. The pool is appealing on a hot day. A guide can take you on a village or forest walk (fees apply, reserve at the Reception desk).

KIA Lodge
KIA Lodge is part of the Moivaro group of lodges. It is located right near Kilimanjaro International Airport (approximately 5 minutes away). There is a free van shuttle to/from the airport if you have a room. Rooms are comfortable though not luxury. The Lodge is a great place to spend a night when you have late arriving or especially if you have early morning departing flights, or need to spend one night somewhere at the end of a trip. The lodge location is very convenient for the airport and located part-way between Arusha and Moshi, with nothing nearby except the airport.