Arusha is often viewed merely as a gateway—a brief stopover before heading into the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater. However, for families traveling with children, rushing through this city is a missed opportunity. Arusha offers a distinct blend of urban energy, accessible nature, and cultural education that provides a perfect counter-balance to the often rigorous schedule of a safari.
Parents searching for kids activities in Arusha generally have a specific intent: finding safe, engaging, and age-appropriate experiences that allow children to burn energy or learn something new without the confinement of a 4×4 vehicle.
At Mamis Tours & Travels, we understand that a family vacation requires a delicate balance. You need logistics that work, environments that are safe, and activities that cater to short attention spans. This guide moves beyond generic tourism lists to provide a comprehensive look at family things to do in Arusha, categorized by energy level, interest, and age suitability.
The Reality of Traveling with Kids in Tanzania
Before diving into specific attractions, it is vital to manage expectations. While Northern Tanzania is world-famous for wildlife, a full-day game drive can be exhausting for children under 12.
The key to a successful family trip is variety. You need a mix of:
- Physical Play: Places to run, jump, and climb.
- Tactile Learning: Museums or centers where touching isn’t forbidden.
- Safe Adventure: Wildlife experiences that don’t require hours of sitting still.
Below, we have curated the best Arusha kid friendly attractions, ranging from indoor play zones to outdoor adventures.
1. Urban & Easy-Access Experiences
Best for: Rest days, rainy afternoons, and burning off energy between flights.
If you have just arrived or are taking a break between safari legs, you likely want central locations that don’t require long drives. These spots are perfect for letting kids be kids.
Noor Play and Learn
This is a sanctuary for parents of toddlers and younger children. Unlike chaotic public parks, Noor Play and Learn offers a structured, indoor environment focused on developmental play. It is clean, safe, and designed to stimulate young minds.
- Why it works: It offers a break from the heat and dust. The facility combines physical play structures with educational toys, allowing parents to relax while children engage in safe, supervised activity.
- Best For Ages: 1 to 7 years.
- Mamis Tours & Travels Tip: This is an excellent stop if you have a few hours to kill before an evening flight out of Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
The Game Lounge By RYAN KIDZ
For slightly older children who need high-energy engagement, The Game Lounge is a premier destination. It is a dedicated recreation space featuring modern play zones, gaming gear, and social areas.
- The Experience: The lounge is equipped with safe, soft-play obstacles for younger ones and gaming setups for pre-teens. It is designed to be a social hub where kids can interact with local children and other travelers.
- Best For Ages: 4 to 12 years.
Friedkin Recreation Centre
Located near the wildly popular Sable Square Shopping Village, the Friedkin Recreation Centre is a staple for local families. It offers a mix of rides, games, and open spaces.
- Why go: It is one of the few places in Arusha that mimics a traditional western amusement center but with a local twist. It allows for social interaction and is adjacent to shopping and dining options, making logistics easy for parents.
- Best For Ages: All ages (different zones for different abilities).
2. Educational & Cultural Stops (Learning Without Boredom)
Best for: Curious minds, history buffs, and gentle walking.
Arusha with children places often center on nature, but the cultural aspect is equally rewarding if approached correctly.
National Natural History Museum (The Old Boma)
Located in a historic German fort, this museum is small enough not to be overwhelming but dense with information.
- The Draw: The museum focuses on human evolution (specifically the findings at Olduvai Gorge) and taxidermy of local wildlife. While “taxidermy” might sound dry, kids love being able to stand next to a preserved leopard or eagle to see the actual scale of the animals they might spot on safari.
- Interactive Element: There is a dedicated wing for learning about the history of Arusha itself.
- Mamis Tours & Travels Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Uhuru Monument. It’s a short walk and offers a great history lesson on Tanzania’s independence.
Cultural Heritage Centre
This is more than a gift shop; it is an architectural marvel and an art gallery. The structure itself, designed to look like a shield and spear, fascinates children.
- Why it works: Entrance to the grounds is generally free (fees apply for the gallery). Kids can explore the sculpture gardens which feature massive statues of animals and tribal figures. It sparks curiosity about African art forms without the pressure of a formal museum tour.
- Best For Ages: 6+ (The gallery contains expensive art, so caution is needed with toddlers).
The Arusha Clock Tower
Located at the center of the city, this is the midpoint between Cairo and Cape Town.
- The Experience: This is a quick stop—15 minutes maximum. It’s a photo opportunity that serves as a geography lesson. It is situated in a busy traffic circle, so hold hands tight. It allows kids to see the hustle of daily life in Arusha safely.
3. Nature & Adventure (Yet Kid-Friendly)
Best for: Active families, wildlife lovers, and fresh air.
When clients ask where to take the kids in Arusha for nature, we look for places that offer freedom of movement.
Arusha National Park: The “Walking” Safari
Unlike the Serengeti, Arusha National Park permits walking safaris and canoeing. This is a game-changer for families.
- Canoeing on Momella Lakes: This is safe, guided, and incredibly peaceful. Kids can see hippos and flamingos from the water without the noise of an engine.
- Short Walks: Guided walks to Tululusia Waterfall allow kids to stretch their legs while seeing giraffes and zebras nearby.
- Why choose this: It eliminates the “are we there yet?” frustration of long drives.
- Mamis Tours & Travels Insight: We can arrange half-day trips here that include a picnic lunch, ensuring you are back at your lodge before the kids get overtired.
Lake Duluti
A crater lake located just outside the city, Lake Duluti is a forest reserve perfect for a calm afternoon.
- Activities: You can hike the trail around the lake (mostly shaded and flat) or take a canoe trip.
- Wildlife: Monitor lizards and varied birdlife are common here. It feels like a deep jungle adventure but is very safe and accessible.
- Dining: There is a restaurant at the lake’s edge, allowing parents to enjoy a drink while kids explore the grassy banks.
Makini Swing Adventures & Themi Falls
For families with older children or teenagers, these spots offer a bit more adrenaline.
- Themi Falls Leisure Park: Located in a river valley, this offers hiking trails, gardens, and a waterfall. It is a great spot for a family picnic.
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- Makini Swing: Offers excellent views of Mount Meru and swings that provide a thrill (and great photos) without being dangerous.
4. Hands-On Animal Experiences
Best for: Animal lovers who want close encounters.
Meserani Snake Park
Located about 25km west of Arusha, this is a must-visit for brave kids.
- The Experience: Guided tours introduce kids to some of Africa’s most dangerous snakes—safely behind glass. The guides are excellent at dispelling fears and educating children on reptile behavior.
- Bonus: They often have a camel ride available, which is a massive hit with children. There is also a Maasai Cultural Museum on-site that is very accessible for young learners.
- Best For Ages: 5+ (Younger kids might find the snakes frightening).
5. Practical Guide for Parents
At Mamis Tours & Travels, we know that logistics make or break a family trip. Here are our expert tips for navigating Arusha with children.
Where to Eat (Kid-Friendly)
Avoid fine dining; look for gardens.
- Rivertrees Country Inn: Offers massive lawns and pizza ovens. Kids can run free while parents eat.
- Fifi’s: Located in town, offering familiar foods (burgers, milkshakes) and a safe environment.
- George’s Tavern: Great Greek food with a play area for kids.
Weather & Packing
Arusha is at a high altitude and can be surprisingly cool, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Pack Layers: A fleece jacket is essential for morning game drives or evening dinners.
- Rain Gear: If visiting during the green season (March-May or November), bring waterproofs for the outdoor play centers.
Breaking Up the Day
Do not attempt a full itinerary from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Morning: Do the active outdoor activity (hike, park, or museum) when energy is high.
- Lunch: Long lunch at a garden restaurant.
- Afternoon: Retreat to Noor Play and Learn or your hotel pool for downtime.
6. Curated Itineraries by Age & Mood
To help you plan, here are three distinct ways to spend a day in Arusha, depending on your family’s needs.
The “Toddler Tamer” (Ages 1-5)
- Morning: Visit Noor Play and Learn for structured, safe play.
- Lunch: Picnic at Themi Falls (easy walking, lots of visual stimulation).
- Afternoon: Nap time, followed by an early dinner at a restaurant with a garden.
The “Junior Explorer” (Ages 6-12)
- Morning: Arusha National Park for a canoe safari on Momella Lakes.
- Lunch: Picnic inside the park.
- Afternoon: Visit the National Natural History Museum to learn about human evolution, followed by a stop at the Clock Tower.
The “Teen Adventure” (Ages 13+)
- Morning: Hike at Lake Duluti or visit Meserani Snake Park.
- Lunch: Local BBQ (Nyama Choma) experience to try local culture.
- Afternoon: Cultural Heritage Centre to browse art, followed by relaxation at Makini Swing Adventures.
Plan Your Family Trip with Mamis Tours & Travels
Finding the right family things to do in Arusha takes local knowledge. Whether you need a reliable driver to shuttle your family between the Snake Park and your lodge, or a fully guided family-friendly safari itinerary that includes these hidden gems, we are here to help.
Mamis Tours & Travels specializes in creating seamless, safe, and memorable experiences for families. We handle the logistics so you can focus on making memories.
Contact us today to book your family-friendly Arusha excursion.