Daily costs per person in US dollars. Arusha is affordable for day-to-day living — local food and transport are cheap. Safari costs (which most visitors book from Arusha) are a separate and significant budget item.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: TZS (Tanzanian Shilling) (USD widely accepted for tours and lodges)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8–20 | $30–80 | $150+ | Guesthouses → mid-range hotels → lodges |
| Food | $5–12 | $12–30 | $40+ | Street food → local restaurants → fine dining |
| Transport | $2–8 | $10–25 | $40+ | Dalla-dalla → shared taxi → private hire |
| Activities | $5–20 | $25–60 | $100+ | Markets → coffee tours → national park |
| Entry Fees | $5–15 | $15–50 | $50+ | Museums → national park ($50/day) |
| Daily Total | $25–75 | $92–245 | $380+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Book safaris in Arusha
Safari prices quoted in Arusha are 30-50% cheaper than those booked through international agents. Compare at least 3 operators, negotiate firmly, and check TATO membership. Competition is fierce and prices are flexible, especially in low season.
Eat street food like a local
Chips mayai (omelette with chips), mishkaki (meat skewers), and pilau rice cost 2,000-5,000 TZS ($0.80-2) at street stalls. Tourist restaurants charge 10x more for the same food. Follow the crowds to the busiest stalls for the freshest food.
Share transport
Dalla-dalla minibuses around Arusha cost 500-1,000 TZS ($0.20-0.40). For day trips, share a taxi with other travellers from your hostel. The Via Via notice board is the best place to find safari and transport companions.
Negotiate everything
Prices for taxis, market goods, and tours in Arusha are always negotiable. Start at 40-50% of the asking price and settle around 60-70%. Bargaining is expected, enjoyable, and part of the cultural experience.
Use USD for big purchases
Safari companies, park fees, and upmarket hotels quote in USD and accept dollar cash — often at a better rate than paying in TZS. Carry clean, recent (post-2013) US dollar bills in $50 and $100 denominations.
Stay in local guesthouses
Arusha has excellent budget guesthouses for $10-25 per night that are cleaner and friendlier than many hostels. Ask fellow travellers for recommendations — the best places fill through word of mouth rather than booking platforms.
