Is Arusha Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Arusha is a generally friendly city with welcoming locals. However, there can be occasional instances of petty theft and mugging in busy areas. It's important to stay vigilant, especially during the night and in crowded places. Taking scheduled tours and hiring reliable guides for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro or safari in Serengeti can enhance your safety. Also, it is always good to respect cultural norms and dress modestly to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Safety rating

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Arusha is currently ranked #19 safest place in United Republic of Tanzania for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 2.3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Arusha?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Arusha, Tanzania can have safety concerns for solo female travelers during night hours. It's advisable not to walk alone at night due to risk of petty crime such as theft or mugging. Late-night public transport also might not be the safest. It's recommended to take precautions such as avoiding poorly lit and deserted areas, not displaying valuable items, and hiring a reputable taxi service for late-night travels.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation within Arusha is predominantly through Dala-dalas (shared minibuses), Boda bodas (motorcycle taxis), and normal taxis. Dala-dalas are cheap and frequent but can be crowded, which might lead to discomfort and potential pick-pocketing. Boda bodas are convenient for shorter distances but can be riskier due to the chaotic traffic. Regular taxis are the safest option, though more expensive. It’s advised to negotiate fares in advance and ideally travel during daylight hours.

Street harassment:Moderate

While traveling through Arusha, Tanzania, you may experience instances of street harassment. This doesn't necessarily reflect a constant occurrence but it isn't a rare problem, either. Catcalling, unsolicited comments, and occasional over-insistent vendors could be part of these experiences. Like many places, the level of harassment can be dependent on factors such as time of day, location, and your behavior. Always uphold vigilance and respect local norms and customs.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Arusha is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during the day when the city bustles with locals, vendors and travelers. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching, and phone theft are relatively common, especially in crowded places and at night. It's important to stay alert, don't flash expensive items, and keep your belongings secure and close to your body, particularly in public transportation and local markets.

Is Arusha worth visiting?

Ivy

Kenya

Solo travel

I recently visited Arusha and had an amazing time! I felt safe throughout my stay, and the locals I met were incredibly kind. I traveled by bus from Nairobi, which took about 6 hours. On my first night, I stayed at Gran Melia Hotel Arusha, where the service was excellent. After that, I met up with a friend who is a local. We mostly ate at local restaurants, though I can't recall the names. I stayed for a week and spent my nights at Mrimba Palm Hotel, which I really loved. I used public transportation, and the Daladalas there are really cheap and convenient. During my stay, I visited several places, including the Cultural Heritage Centre, the German Boma Museum, and Meserani Snake Park. I also got a fantastic view of Mount Meru. Arusha is a wonderful place to explore, and I highly recommend it!

Posted: July 10, 2024Experienced: April, 2024

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Is Arusha safe for women?

Arusha is very safe, especially for travelers including women, they are safe and can travel solo without worry or feeling unsafe. People are friendly and willing to help and assist you when you are in need or want help.

Posted: March 31, 2024

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Meet locals in Arusha

Diana

About Me

Hey, My name is Diana and I'm interested in camping, nature, events & social, trekking, games, culture, animals and food & cuisine

Speaking

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bundisha

About Me

Hi! I live in San Francisco and currently traveling through Africa (in Tanzania right now), and I am looking for friends to do trips with (around Africa & Europe). I have a dark sense of humor, like doing yoga, jigsaw puzzles, playing boardgames, dancing, music (especially house & techno), meeting new people, travelling (doh 😆). Would love to find meaningful connections and plan fun trips!

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