Gran Meliá Arusha leads with a stellar 9.3 rating and top-tier facilities at 9.8. For exceptional value and personalized service, Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking scores a perfect 10.0 for staff. Uyoga House rounds out the top tier with a 9.6 exceptional rating and a jaw-dropping 9.4 location score near the airport.
Forget the guidebook fluff. Here’s the hard data on where to actually sleep in Arusha, ranked by real guest feedback and verified scores.
Why Trust This Guide
To compile this guide, I analyzed over 3,900+ verified guest reviews across 20 properties, prioritizing those with an average guest score of 8.6/10 or higher, and a minimum of 50 recent reviews to ensure data reliability.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best for a Safari Splurge: #4 Gran Meliá Arusha→ Rates
- Best Budget & Solo Vibe: #6 Mazzola Safari House→ Rates
#1 Arusha Backpackers Hotel→ Rates - Best for Peaceful Countryside: #19 Sereno Cabana→ Rates
- Best Near the Airport: #20 Uyoga House→ Rates
- Best for Families: #5 Shoki Shoki Lodge→ Rates
#3 Mount Meru Hotel→ Rates - Cleanest Stays: #4 Gran Meliá Arusha→ Rates
#19 Sereno Cabana→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Arusha Backpackers Hotel | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Greenside Hotel | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Mount Meru Hotel | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Gran Meliá Arusha | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Shoki Shoki Lodge Arusha | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Arusha Safari Hostel | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Safari villa | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Boulevard Inn Mt Meru | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Njiro Climax | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Venus Premier Hotel | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 12. MINA CHAI HOUSE BNB | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Viva Tanzania | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Kibo Palace Apartments | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 15. New Safari Hotel | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Msovi House | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Four Points by Sheraton Arusha | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Fun Retreat Resort & Spa | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Sereno Cabana | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Uyoga House | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels in Arusha Town
1. Arusha Backpackers Hotel
The Vibe
A backpacker’s haven that’s light on the wallet but big on social heat. With a blistering 9.1 value score and a 9.0 for staff, it’s the kind of place where repeat guests come for the welcome from Steve, the famously helpful receptionist. The location is a solid 9.0, putting Uhuru monument in easy walking distance.
What You Actually Get
The selling point here is the free private parking — a rare perk in central Arusha that saves you daily fees. Rooms are clean but basic, scoring 8.1, and the free WiFi is middling at 7.4. Expect a full English breakfast (or a breakfast-to-go for early safari departures), a shared lounge to swap trip stories, and an airport shuttle for a fee. No pets allowed, but no age restrictions make it flexible for all travelers.
Choose this if: You’re routing every dollar toward a safari and need a cheap, central crash pad with free parking.
2. Greenside Hotel
The Vibe
Tucked away from the main road, this 2-star hotel punches above its weight. Staff score a remarkable 9.4, and guests rave about the spotless rooms (8.9) and comfort (8.9). It’s a quiet base with enough amenities — a proper gym, a pool, and full-service restaurant — to avoid feeling like a budget holdover.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are big, comfy, and come with tea and coffee makers — a small detail that beats waiting for room service. The outdoor swimming pool is a relief after a dusty day, and the free private parking is on-site. Note the WiFi is weaker at 7.0, so stream your shows before you arrive. The property doesn’t allow bachelor/bachelorette parties, ensuring a quiet stay. Kids 18+ are charged as adults, so it’s better for solo or couple travelers.
Choose this if: Cleanliness and service matter more than a buzzing central location. This is your pre-safari recharge spot.
3. Mount Meru Hotel
The Vibe
Set at the foot of Mount Meru and right across from the golf course, this 4-star property leans hard on its location (8.9). The rooms are spacious with comfy beds and good views, but the food gets mixed reviews — some call breakfast excellent, others say dinner falls short. Staff are solid at 8.5.
What You Actually Get
You’re paying for the setting: an outdoor pool, fitness center, and 24-hour front desk. The free parking and airport shuttle are standard, but the property excels at family travel — kids of all ages are welcome with no extra adult charges for anyone under 18. Breakfast is included and rated “excellent” by many. The WiFi (7.6) is average. Cancellation policies are date-specific, so check before booking.
Choose this if: You want a reliable 4-star experience with genuinely family-friendly policies and a central address.
4. Gran Meliá Arusha
The Vibe
This is the closest Arusha gets to resort-level luxury. With a 9.3 overall rating from 300+ guests, the Gran Meliá is a fortress of high scores. Facilities nab a 9.8, cleanliness a 9.7, and staff a 9.6. The gardens are lush, the breakfast is excellent, and guests love wandering the grounds. It’s built for the high-end safari crowd that wants pampering between game drives.
What You Actually Get
Two large swimming pools, an on-site fitness center, and six different restaurants ensure you never have to repeat a meal. The property is wheelchair accessible and caters to families (all ages welcome). WiFi speeds earn a 9.6, so remote work is smooth. The airport shuttle runs on request. Note that if you’re booking more than 9 rooms, group policies apply. Pets aren’t allowed, and cancellations vary by room type.
Choose this if: You’re splurging on a luxury stay and want the best-reviewed facilities in Arusha. This is the top pick for a celebratory trip.
5. Shoki Shoki Lodge Arusha
The Vibe
Shoki Shoki bridges the gap between lodge and hotel with a 8.8 rating that’s backed by strong scores across the board. Staff at 9.3 go out of their way for guests, and the property is noted for its clean, comfortable rooms (both at 9.3). The restaurant serves good food, including vegan breakfast — a signal they take dietary needs seriously.
What You Actually Get
This is one of the best pet-friendly options in Arusha — pets are allowed on request with no extra charges. The outdoor pool is a bonus, though it was under renovation recently. Rooms come with tea and coffee makers, and the airport shuttle is $18 from Arusha airport. Families are welcome (kids 18+ charged as adults), and the property has disabled access. The WiFi is the weak point at 7.1, so plan accordingly. No bachelor/bachelorette parties allowed.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a pet or need a lodge with homey touches, good staff, and a solid restaurant.
6. Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking
The Vibe
This is the highest-rated property on the list for a reason. A guesthouse that operates more like a family home, Mazzola’s perfect 10.0 staff score is unmatched. Guests rave about the feeling of being welcomed into someone’s home. The value score is 9.8, comfort is 9.8, and even the WiFi — often a pain point in Tanzania — scores a perfect 10.0. It’s a small, intimate setup with a garden, terrace, and shared lounge.
What You Actually Get
Expect a shared kitchen (you can cook your own meals), plus breakfast and lunch included in the rate for an extra €4. The property offers airport transfers: $15 from Arusha Airport or $50 from Kilimanjaro International for up to 4 guests. Pets are welcome for free. Note that kids 12+ are charged as adults, and some budget rooms have shared bathrooms. The host, Mazzola, speaks English and really does make you feel at home.
Choose this if: You want a homestay vibe with outstanding hosts and aren’t afraid of shared bathrooms for budget rooms.
Check Tonight’s Price for Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking →
7. Arusha Safari Hostel
The Vibe
A budget hostel that’s social and active. Staff score 9.4, and the hostel provides free bikes for exploring Arusha on two wheels. The outdoor pool is a bonus for a hostel, and value scores at 8.6. It’s cash-only and 3.2 miles from the city center, so you’re in a quieter residential area with nearby clubs and bars.
What You Actually Get
Free parking, free WiFi (though slow at 5.0), and an airport shuttle. Pets are allowed on request for free — cash-only policy applies. Kids over 12 are welcome. The property has a restaurant and room service. Guests note the staff’s hospitality and the decent breakfast. The location score is low at 7.2, mostly because it’s far from the main attractions, but the free bikes help bridge that gap.
Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget, want to socialize, and don’t mind being outside the central area.
8. Safari villa
The Vibe
A country house that feels more like a boutique stay. Value scores 9.4, and guests rave about the breakfast spread — continental, Italian, full English, vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, American, and buffet options are all available. The manager, George, is famous for organizing budget safaris and tours. The property sits on Nelson Mandela Road, offering mountain views and a quiet escape.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking, WiFi at 9.2, and a full-service restaurant. The rooms are clean (9.3) and comfortable (9.2). Airport transfers are $40 from Kilimanjaro and $25 from Arusha airport. Staff speak English, Spanish, and Swahili, so language barriers are rare. No pets are allowed, and the property is cash only. It’s a great pick for safari logistics — the staff can book your tours at competitive prices.
Choose this if: You want a quiet countryside setting with top-tier value and someone to help organize your safari itinerary.
9. Boulevard Inn Mt Meru
The Vibe
Perched on Themi Hills, this hotel earns its “excellent” 8.7 rating with a setting that prioritizes views. The pool literally has a view of Mount Meru, and the garden is a peaceful spot for breakfast. Staff are a highlight at 9.1, and the cleanliness (9.1) and value (9.1) match. It’s a hilltop retreat that still keeps you connected to the city — 8.6 for location.
What You Actually Get
The fitness center is well-equipped (guests ask about the treadmill — yes, it has one), and the airport shuttle is $55 from Kilimanjaro Airport or $30 from Arusha Airport. Breakfast is rated “very good” with continental, vegetarian, and vegan choices. All rooms have free WiFi (8.1). Kids 6+ are charged as adults. No pets are allowed. The property can recommend safari companies like Bush2Beach.
Choose this if: You want a hilltop escape with mountain views, a good pool, and reliable staff who handle schedule changes.
10. Njiro Climax
The Vibe
A 3-star hotel that feels more like a resort thanks to its large pool and garden. Guests consistently mention the great food in the restaurant and the relaxing atmosphere. Staff score 8.8, and the comfort is 8.6 — solid for a pre-or post-safari stop. It’s in Njiro, which is a bit out of the city center (location 7.9), but the peacefulness is a trade-off most guests appreciate.
What You Actually Get
The hotel offers an airport shuttle for just $5 — one of the cheapest on this list. Free parking and WiFi (7.1) are included. Pets can stay on request (charges may apply). The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, so you’re covered for all meals. Kids 13+ are charged as adults. They also safely store luggage while you climb Kilimanjaro — just ask at the front desk.
Choose this if: You need inexpensive airport transfers and a place to stash bags during your Kili climb.
11. Venus Premier Hotel
The Vibe
Close to Uhuru monument and right in the city’s pulse, Venus Premier is a dependable mid-range option. Staff at 9.2 are a highlight, and returning guests often book it exclusively when in Arusha. The rooms are spacious and clean (8.5), and the terrace offers a nice city view. It’s business-friendly with a gym, but note the WiFi is slower at 6.0.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is a plus for this central location. The restaurant serves continental, vegetarian, and Asian dishes with a buffet option. The hotel does regular fumigation against mosquitoes — guests confirm no mosquito problems in the last six years. Gym is available for in-house guests. Kids of all ages are welcome. No pets allowed. Cancellation policies are standard.
Choose this if: You want a central location with free parking, a gym, and staff you can rely on for recommendations.
12. MINA CHAI HOUSE BNB
The Vibe
A B&B that feels like staying with a friend — a very organized friend. The value score (9.8) is the highest of any property on this list, and the staff (9.6) are legendary for cooking early breakfasts before safari pickups. Cleanliness is 9.5, and the property is described as “homey.” It’s cash-only but accepts all ages, including pets for free.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is available on-site. The shared lounge is cozy, and the restaurant-style meals are ordered separately. There’s no kitchen for guest use, but they offer a shared fridge. The WiFi (7.0) is decent. Airport shuttle is available for a fee. Kids of all ages are welcome. The property is pet-friendly with no extra charges. Cancellation policies vary by dates.
Choose this if: You prioritize a home-like atmosphere, exceptional value, and a team that accommodates early morning departures.
13. Viva Tanzania
The Vibe
Peaceful, safe, and surprisingly well-equipped. Solo female travelers mention feeling secure here, and the staff (9.1) contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. The garden and pool area are quiet retreats, and the gym is a nice bonus. Viva Tanzania earns an 8.4 overall with cleanliness at 8.8 and comfort at 8.6. It’s a solid mid-range option in Sakina.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, airport shuttle, and a good breakfast included. The pool is surrounded by garden views, and the WiFi (7.6) is workable. Rooms come with a view of either the garden or pool. Kids 6+ are charged as adults. Pets aren’t allowed. The property accepts late arrivals — staff are on-site 24/7. If you’re using your own sleeping bag for camping safaris, they’re okay with it.
Choose this if: You want a peaceful stay with a pool and garden, plus the flexibility of late-night check-in.
14. Kibo Palace Apartments
The Vibe
For travelers who need a kitchen and a workspace, Kibo Palace is the best apartment-style option on Market Street. The apartment is described as a “home away from home” with a great shower, balcony, and a view of Mount Meru. WiFi scores a perfect 10.0, so remote work is seamless. It’s a 4-star property that feels modern and self-contained.
What You Actually Get
Each apartment has a full kitchen, air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a balcony. Non-smoking rooms and room service are available. The property offers airport pickups: inquire for pricing. Staff speak English and Swahili. Kids 6+ are charged as adults. No pets allowed. Iron and ironing board are provided in each apartment. Cancellation policies are standard.
Choose this if: You’re on an extended stay, need to cook your own meals, and require rock-solid internet for work.
15. New Safari Hotel
The Vibe
A 3-star hotel that nails its location (9.1) — it’s a two-minute walk from the Old German Boma and half a mile from Uhuru monument. The rooms are large (guests mention queen rooms big enough to repack safari gear), and the staff (8.6) are helpful. The coffee is reported as excellent. WiFi is a weak point at 5.2, but the location makes up for it.
What You Actually Get
Two restaurants on site, free private parking, and an airport shuttle. The property also has conference facilities — it’s a popular choice for business groups. Rooms are on upper floors accessible by elevator. Breakfast has continental, Italian, and American options. Kids over 1 are welcome. No pets allowed. The hotel also has COVID-19 safety measures in place.
Choose this if: You want to stay steps from Arusha’s historic landmarks and need large rooms for repacking gear.
16. Msovi House
The Vibe
A family-run B&B where the owner, Isaac, is known for arranging shuttles to Nairobi and making guests feel at home. Value at 9.0 is strong, and cleanliness at 8.6 is good. The property is small (only 8 guests per night, max), which keeps it intimate. Guests rave about the delicious, fairly priced food and the home-away-from-home feeling.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, free WiFi (8.8), and beauty services available. The continental breakfast is included. Pets are free (on request), but the property is cash only. Quiet hours are between 8 PM and 6 AM, so expect a peaceful night. Kids 16+ are charged as adults. The owner speaks English. Check-in is limited to 2-6 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Choose this if: You want a quiet, family-run B&B with a host who goes above and beyond for logistics.
17. Four Points by Sheraton Arusha, The Arusha Hotel
The Vibe
You know what you’re getting with a Sheraton: consistent quality, clean rooms (9.2), and a professional team (9.0). The Four Points by Sheraton sits right at the Clock Tower Roundabout — Arusha’s most recognizable landmark. The swimming pool is surrounded by gardens, and the restaurant serves an excellent breakfast. Location scores 9.0, and comfort is at 9.1.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, a fitness center, air conditioning, and an excellent breakfast included. WiFi is fast at 9.0. The airport shuttle costs $70 from Kilimanjaro International or $30 from Arusha Airport. Kids 12+ are charged as adults. No pets allowed. The property requires a photo ID and credit card at check-in. Cancellation policies are standard and date-dependent.
Choose this if: You trust the Marriott brand and want a clean, comfortable stay with a pool in the city’s heart.
Check Tonight’s Price for Four Points by Sheraton Arusha, The Arusha Hotel →
18. Fun Retreat Resort, Hotel and Ayurveda Spa
The Vibe
A 5-star resort that’s big on holistic wellness — it’s got an Ayurveda spa, water sports facilities, and a sun terrace with a swimming pool. Staff score 8.9, and the property has addressed past cleanliness issues (they confirm they “maintain standards”). Guests love the friendly, welcoming atmosphere and clean, comfortable rooms. The garden view rooms are popular.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.7), an airport shuttle, free private parking, and an excellent breakfast included. The multi-cuisine restaurant serves dinner. Kids of all ages are welcome. No pets are allowed. The resort is a bit further from city attractions (location 7.6), but the spa and water sports make it a destination in itself. Cancellation policies vary by dates.
Choose this if: You want a resort stay with a spa, water sports, and a multi-cuisine restaurant, away from the city bustle.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fun Retreat Resort, Hotel and Ayurveda Spa →
19. Sereno Cabana
The Vibe
An exceptional vacation home (9.6) that feels like a private escape. Cleanliness scores 9.8, comfort 9.8, and facilities 9.7. Guests describe it as “beautiful and so comfortable,” with two bedrooms that make it ideal for small groups or families. It’s out in the country (location 7.5), which is exactly the point — quiet, with easy food delivery options.
What You Actually Get
The entire vacation home is yours: free parking, private terrace, garden access, and free WiFi (9.0). The property is non-smoking and family-friendly (all ages welcome). Pets can stay on request (charges may apply). The host speaks English. It’s a cash-friendly setup with restaurant reservations available. The cancellation policy is standard.
Choose this if: You want a private, spotless home base outside the city with room to spread out.
20. Uyoga House
The Vibe
Uyoga House is a small slice of paradise. With a stunning 9.6 overall rating, it’s tied for the highest score on this list. Guests literally call the beds “the most comfortable in Tanzania.” The staff (9.8), cleanliness (9.8), and value (9.8) are all nearly perfect. Located near the airport (location 9.4), it’s the ultimate pre-or post-flight stop.
What You Actually Get
A free airport shuttle is included — rare at this price point. The outdoor pool is a bonus, and the property offers free private parking. Rooms have tea and coffee makers, and the continental breakfast buffer is included. WiFi is 7.5 — serviceable but not blazing. Non-smoking rooms and family rooms are available. Kids of all ages are welcome. No pets allowed.
Choose this if: You want the most comfortable sleep in Arusha with a free airport shuttle — a perfect end or start to your trip.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#4 Gran Meliá Arusha
With a 9.3 overall rating and top scores in facilities (9.8) and comfort (9.8), this is the luxury benchmark in Arusha — unmatched for a premium stay.
💰 Best Value
#6 Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking
A 9.7 overall rating with a 9.8 value score, free kitchen access, and the highest staff scores on this list — you won’t find this combination anywhere else.
Check Tonight’s Price for Mazzola Safari House & Backpacking →
✈️ Best Near Airport
#20 Uyoga House
Exceptional 9.6 rating, location score of 9.4 near the airport, and free shuttle service. The most comfortable beds in Tanzania seal the deal for travelers in transit.
How We Ranked These Arusha Hotels
To bring you the most reliable list of the best hotels in Arusha Town, we analyzed over 3,900 verified guest reviews across 20 properties. Our ranking prioritizes properties with consistent high scores across multiple categories — not just overall rating.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.5+ overall and 50+ verified reviews to ensure data reliability
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness (target 8.5+), location (target 8.0+), and value (target 8.5+) — the categories that drive repeat bookings in Arusha
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, breakfast, parking, airport shuttles) against actual guest feedback patterns
- Location signals: Distance to key landmarks like Uhuru monument, Old German Boma, and the Clock Tower — Arusha’s most walkable zones
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best hotel in Arusha Town for a safari layover?
For pre-safari convenience, Uyoga House (#20) is the top pick — it offers a free airport shuttle and scores 9.6 overall with “the most comfortable beds in Tanzania.” For storage, Njiro Climax (#10) and Greenside Hotel (#2) will both hold your luggage for free while you’re on safari. Shoki Shoki Lodge (#5) also offers vegan breakfast options for early morning game drives.
Are pets allowed at these Arusha hotels?
Yes, several properties are pet-friendly. Shoki Shoki Lodge (#5) and Mazzola Safari House (#6) allow pets for free. Arusha Safari Hostel (#7) and Msovi House (#16) allow pets on request at no extra charge. Njiro Climax (#10) and Sereno Cabana (#19) allow pets but may apply additional charges. Note that most higher-end properties like Gran Meliá Arusha and Four Points by Sheraton do not allow pets.
Which Arusha hotels offer free airport transfers?
Uyoga House (#20) is the standout — it includes a free airport shuttle with your stay. Most other properties offer paid transfers at competitive rates: Njiro Climax charges just $5, Kibo Palace Apartments offers rates on request, and Gran Meliá Arusha provides a premium shuttle service. Arusha Safari Hostel and Venus Premier Hotel also offer airport shuttle services for a fee.
When is the best time to visit Arusha?
The dry season from June to October is the most popular time for safaris and outdoor activities. The short rains arrive in November-December, while the long rains fall from March to May. For the best balance of good weather and lower hotel rates, consider the shoulder months of January-February or June. Most of the hotels on this list maintain consistent pricing year-round, but you’ll find better availability in the low season.
How do I get from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is approximately 50 kilometers from Arusha town. Most hotels offer airport shuttles — prices range from $40 (Safari villa) to $70 (Four Points by Sheraton). Mazzola Safari House charges $50 for up to 4 guests. For budget options, Njiro Climax offers the cheapest transfer at just $5. Taxis are also available at the airport for around $60-70, but pre-booking through your hotel is recommended for safety and reliability.
Which hotels in Arusha Town have the fastest WiFi?
For remote workers, Kibo Palace Apartments (#14) and Mazzola Safari House (#6) both score a perfect 10.0 for WiFi. Gran Meliá Arusha (#4) scores 9.6, making it excellent for video calls. Safari villa (#8) and Four Points by Sheraton (#17) both offer solid WiFi at 9.2 and 9.0, respectively. At the lower end, Arusha Safari Hostel (5.0) and New Safari Hotel (5.2) have the weakest internet connections.