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Arusha, Tanzania Named One of the Best Places to Visit in 2026
Arusha has been named by CNN Travel as one of the best places to visit in 2026, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most compelling destinations.
Arusha, Tanzania has been officially named by CNN Travel as one of the Best Places to Visit in 2026, placing the city firmly on the global travel map and reaffirming its status as one of Africa’s most compelling tourism destinations.
Set beneath the dramatic slopes of Mount Meru, Arusha is uniquely distinguished by its immediate access to nature. Arusha National Park, one of the closest national parks to a major town anywhere in the world, offers visitors an extraordinary wilderness experience just minutes from the city centre. Despite its compact size, the park boasts remarkable ecological diversity-lush montane forests, open savannahs, volcanic craters, tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife including giraffes, buffaloes, colobus monkeys, and rich birdlife.
The park is ideal for walking safaris, photography, birdwatching, and peaceful nature escapes, making it a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty. Its proximity allows travellers to enjoy authentic safari experiences without long travel times, seamlessly combining comfort with adventure.
Beyond the park, Arusha serves as the primary gateway to Tanzania’s world-renowned attractions, including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Lake Manyara. At the same time, the city offers rich cultural experiences through vibrant local markets, coffee tours, warm hospitality, and a growing collection of boutique lodges and eco-conscious accommodations.
This international recognition highlights a powerful message to global travellers: there is more to experience in Tanzania than the iconic safari alone. From intimate national parks and sustainable tourism initiatives to deep cultural engagement and uncrowded natural beauty, Tanzania offers layered experiences that feel personal, immersive, and unforgettable.
As the world looks toward 2026, Arusha invites visitors to begin their journey where nature, culture, and adventure meet, revealing the many dimensions of Tanzania-one experience at a time.