Arumeru River Lodge

Built originally by a German who grew up in Tanzania during the British colonial years, its design is distinctly Tanzanian. It was bought by a German couple in 2010, who had travelled extensively through East Africa and fell in love with it. The couple and their highly efficient and dedicated staff run the lodge. On a clear day, the lodge has beautiful views across to Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.

The accommodation at Arumeru River Lodge is scattered about its vast tropical gardens and consists of 21 garden rooms (25 sqm), 6 suites (45 sqm) and a cottage. They all have free WiFi, mosquito nets and fans. The garden rooms and suites have showers only.

Meru Cottage, located in a private position in the garden, has two en-suite bedrooms (one with shower and double basins, the other with bath and shower). It's spread over two floors and has a large living room with fireplace – perfect for a family.

Main Lodge

The main lodge and reception is big, airy and comfortable, with a beautiful terrace overlooking the gardens. It also houses the restaurant, an inviting lounge with a huge fireplace for winter evenings and the sociable Safari Bar. Furnished with dhow wood furniture and thatch, it has a rustic, but comfortable, feel.

Restaurant & bar

With a Zanzibari Head Chef and lots of fresh ingredients (many grown on the property), the food served here is a delicious mix of local and international cuisine. Vegetarians and people with special diets are well catered for here.

One night a week is the Arumeru BBQ night, an African favourite. A variety of meats and vegetables are cooked over an open fire and enjoyed.

Gardens & pool

The vast tropical garden setting of Arumeru is its greatest asset. Taking a walk through them, you can spot a wide variety of indigenous trees and plants and a huge variety of birds that (unsurprisingly) call Arumeru 'home'.

Look out for dik-diks, Africa's smallest and cutest antelope, who also roam freely through the gardens.

A sparkling pool provides welcome relief on hot summer days.

Things to do

There's plenty to do on the grounds themselves; swim, amble around the garden, birdwatch, or just sit on the terrace and read a book. If you're looking for more activity, there is plenty nearby. The lodge will gladly organise these, and they include:

• Nature walks
• Visit nearby Arusha National Park
• Exploring Arusha
• Golf at Kiligolf
• Horseback riding safaris

Getting there

By car - Arumeru River Lodge is situated about halfway between the town of Arusha (55 km) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (30 km). Depending on traffic, travelling to either destination by car should take about half an hour.

By air - Arusha is served by two airports. Arusha Airport has daily flights from numerous local destinations (and is on the opposite side of town) and Kilimanjaro International Airport has daily flights from local, African and international airlines.

Our take on Arumeru River Lodge

It is a tranquil spot away from the hustle-and-bustle of central Arusha. Owner-run, there is an emphasis on comfort, good food and good company. A good, budget-friendly option for the night before and after your safari.