When planning your Kilimanjaro climb and safari adventure, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to stay before your trek begins. Two towns often come up: Arusha and Moshi. Both offer their own charm, but for most climbers and safari-goers, one destination clearly stands out.
Here’s why Arusha is the better starting point for both climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and embarking on a Tanzania safari.
Arusha vs Moshi – A Quick Overview
Moshi is a charming, lowland town nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s closer to the Machame and Marangu gate entrances, making it appealing for climbers who are focused solely on the mountain.
Arusha, however, sits at a higher elevation and serves as the safari capital of Tanzania. Located about 1.5–2 hours from Kilimanjaro International Airport, it’s the main hub for travelers looking to combine trekking and wildlife adventures.
Why Arusha Is Better for Kilimanjaro Treks & Safari
✅ Higher Elevation = Better Acclimatization
One of the key factors for a successful summit on Kilimanjaro is pre-trip acclimatization. Arusha sits at an elevation of 4,600 feet (1,400 meters) compared to Moshi’s 2,800 feet (850 meters). Spending time in Arusha before your climb gives your body a head start in adapting to altitude—an advantage that could make a difference on summit day.
✅ Closer to Tanzania’s Top Safari Parks
If your trip includes a safari after your Kilimanjaro trek, Arusha is undoubtedly the more strategic base. The town is just a short drive from:
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Serengeti National Park (via connecting flights)
Most safari operators—including Climb Kili—launch tours directly from Arusha. That means less travel time and more time in the parks.
✅ Airport Access Into the Safari Parks
Arusha has its own domestic airport (Arusha Airport, ARK) with direct connections to airstrips inside the Serengeti and other parks. Moshi does not. For travelers planning to fly into the Serengeti post-climb, Arusha saves time, money, and transfers.
✅ More Accommodation & Trekking Logistics
As the gateway to Northern Tanzania’s major attractions, Arusha offers a wider range of hotels, lodges, and services tailored to both climbers and safari travelers. It’s also where Climb Kili’s logistics, gear storage, and crew prep are based.
When Moshi Might Be a Good Fit
While Arusha is often the better overall choice, there are a few situations where Moshi may work better:
- You’re only doing a Kilimanjaro climb and flying home directly afterward.
- You’re trekking the Marangu or Rongai Route, which start closer to Moshi.
- You’re seeking a quieter town experience or budget accommodations.
What Climb Kili Recommends
At Climb Kili, we specialize in seamlessly combining Kilimanjaro climbs with unforgettable safaris. Our team recommends Arusha for most climbers because it provides:
- Superior acclimatization benefits
- Shorter transfers into safari parks
- Access to connecting flights post-trek
- Better pre- and post-trek lodging options
We operate from both towns, but for those doing climb + safari combos, Arusha is the clear winner.
Arusha Wins for Adventure & Access
So, is Arusha or Moshi better for Kilimanjaro and safari? While Moshi has its appeal—especially for climbers focused on quick mountain access—Arusha provides the altitude advantage, safari convenience, and smoother logistics that elevate your entire experience.
If you’re planning a full Tanzanian adventure, Arusha is your ultimate basecamp.
