Arusha to Zanzibar – Travel Guide

Enjoyed the safaris but wish to visit the pristine beaches of Zanzibar now? This guide will help you wander through all the places in between Arusha and Zanzibar.

No doubt, a safari in Tanzania is perfect for solo travelers (here’s why!) but now, it’s time to head over to the beaches of Zanzibar and enjoy the sun, relaxation and water sports activities!

The Journey
Arusha and Zanzibar are separated by approximately 700 kilometers, containing both land and water. You can travel by road to Dar es Salaam and then take a ferry ride to Zanzibar or you can take an airplane ride to Zanzibar directly. The flight takes less than two hours.

Places to Visit During Your Journey
Tanzania is blessed with a picturesque landscape and even on your road-trip from Arusha to Zanzibar, you will find many places worth visiting!

Mount Meru
Located just at the north of Arusha, Mount Meru stands at a height of 4,500 meters, and is the second-highest mountain of Tanzania. The route that takes you up the mountain is located only 15 kilometers away from the entrance of Arusha National Park.

The climb can take up to three nights since you should only climb 1000 feet per day. You can view the beautiful vegetation that the mountain has to offer on your way. Moreover, you can also consider the climb as a preparation for the Mount Kilimanjaro hike!

Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,800 meters and is located only 70 kilometers away from Mt. Meru. It is not only the highest peak in Tanzania, but also the whole of Africa – which means you would need to climb it to conquer all seven summits. Mt. Kilimanjaro is also the tallest “free-standing” mountain, as the other mountains are part of ranges.

Although the mountain is tall, the hike requires no special equipment or previous experience of mountain climbing. A fair level of fitness is required and altitude sickness can play a role so seek good advice before attempting. Both Mt. Meru, and Mt. Kilimanjaro are dormant volcanoes, but as you climb up, the temperatures get colder and you can even see glaciers on the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

East Usambara Mountains
Halfway through your ride from Arusha to Zanzibar, you can see the East Sambura Mountains. They are around 300 kilometers away from Arusha, and one of the must-visit places in Africa. Unlike the characteristic African ecology, they are covered with tropical rainforests, making them a biodiversity hotspot.

Inside the mountainous region, you can also visit the trade town of Lushoto and the Amani Nature Reserve.

Tanga
Tanga is the northernmost port of Tanzania and is two hours away from East Usambara mountains. The city holds historical importance and popular tourist sites including the Tanga Museum, the Tongoni Ruins, and coastal mangroves.

Sadaani National Park
Sadaani National Park is the only wildlife sanctuary of its area which borders the sea. It can be visited on a 4-hour ride from Tanga and promises to make your journey worth it.

Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is the most populous city of Tanzania and to travel to Zanzibar, you will need to take a ferry ride from here. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Tanzania. It hosts two museums and many golden beaches!

All the places between Arusha and Zanzibar are worth visiting, so you may want to take out some days to fully enjoy your road trip!

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Zanzibar and enjoy being surrounded by the Indian Ocean!