Gran Melia is certainly the best of the big hotels in the region around Arusha, and while we generally prefer to recommend places without conference suites, we love the fantastic facilities and beautiful views of Mount Meru! This is 5-star opulence, with spas and pools, foyers, and lots of straight lines – so it does slightly feel like you could be anywhere in the world. Most people stay in Arusha for just a night or two to acclimatise after a long flight, before heading into the wild for their main safari action. If you’ve had a particularly long journey to Tanzania and feel like you need the comforts of some international pampering, this property certainly delivers that with aplomb. But we would always first recommend smaller, more boutique-style luxury at one of the many lovely, old coffee plantation lodges. Gran Melia may be just what some people are looking for, and it’s a great hotel – it could be the perfect choice if you’ve just done a tough Kili climb! But if you’re looking for an authentic African experience, we’d suggest more intimate lodges with a little more charm.

ACCESS & LOCATION: 

Gran Melia is in Central Arusha and has a great location, both for the many activities that are possible here and for its stunning views of the dormant volcano Mount Meru, which provides a stunning backdrop. The hotel is a short drive from either Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport. Of these two, the closer airport is Arusha, just 9 kilometres away.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT GRAN MELIA ARUSHA: 

There are VIP services and a host of different room types – too many to name! But all rooms offer state-of-the-art comfort, with a coffee machine, mini-bar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, terrace, and private bathroom with shower. If you want to include Melia as part of your trip, please chat with one of our specialists about which room type will best suit the needs of your group. For families there are interconnecting rooms, and there are also some amazing suites for honeymooners.

The main parts of the hotel are vast and super-modern in design. One of the highlights of Melia Arusha is the number of different dining options! There are multiple restaurants serving African, Indian, and even Peruvian cuisine. This gastronomic journey from South Africa to Tanzania (via South America!) is presided over by the hotel’s amazing head chef, Alankale Mayaven. The wellness centre is beautifully arranged and there are numerous treatments available from highly skilled staff to help you unwind after a long flight. Alternatively you can hit the gym, which is open 24 hours, just in case. The outdoor swimming pool is excellent, as you would expect from a high-class 5-star hotel, and boasts stunning views of Mount Meru.