Arusha

If you are in need of a short stay with some modern hotel amenities before heading off for a safari, the safari-themed Tulip is a good option outside the bustle of Arusha. — Fodor's

This low-key place has sparse but spotlessly clean rooms with fans and nets, a convenient central location, decent breakfasts and friendly staff. — Lonely Planet

Hidden in a old farmhouse on the outskirts of a forest area, you'll find this mountain lodge where you can really get away from it all. — Fodor's

An intimate and sophisticated boutique B&B on a quiet street southeast of the centre, Blues & Chutney has the feel of a tranquil enclave for people in the know. — Lonely Planet

Being 5 km (3 mi) from town and five minutes from Arusha Airport makes this a great option for pre- or post-safari layovers. — Fodor's

Bang in the middle of town, opposite the clock tower, this recently refurbished hotel built in 1894 retains a colonial feel, with elegantly decorated rooms and lovely gardens running down to the Themi River. — Fodor's

It can be slightly difficult to find good budget accommodations in Arusha, but the Outpost has long been a staple for those who have to watch their wallets or are more comfortable in a backpacker-style accommodation. — Fodor's

This bright and welcoming place has simple but adequate double and twin rooms, some along the corridor, others around an open-air lounge. — Lonely Planet

This excellent place is ideal for families or for those who want their own spacious serviced apartments with kitchen, dining and lounge area. — Lonely Planet

This tranquil, classy B&B is run by a Belgian chef whose eye for detail is what makes this such a great place. — Lonely Planet

Simple stone cottages, each with a private veranda, are warmed by fireplaces on cool nights. Half-board and full-board options are available. — Fodor's

Naaz is short on atmosphere, but otherwise okay value, with comfortable 1st-floor rooms in a convenient central location by the Clock Tower. — Lonely Planet

Truly something different, off Onsea–Moivaro Rd on a forested hillside in the Suye Hill area just southeast of town, Karama offers 22 rustic and rather lovely stilt bungalows, each with a verandah. — Lonely Planet

This is a cheap, no-frills but reasonably reliable place. — Lonely Planet

East of Arusha in Usa River and bordering a private wildlife sanctuary that has zebras, ostriches and colobus monkeys, Mt Meru Game Lodge is wonderful place to stay. — Lonely Planet

Rooms here also vary widely - the windowless rooms are best avoided, but some, like Room 204 are filled with light and have partial Mt Meru views. — Lonely Planet

Kigongoni’s tranquil hilltop perch about 5km past Arusha gives it an almost wilderness feel. — Lonely Planet

This clued-in place north of the city centre has a mix of African-style rondavels and airy stilt houses set around peaceful gardens. — Lonely Planet

There's a buzz about this place in more ways than one – it's popular for those looking to hook up with other travellers, but the absence of mosquito nets may deter some. — Lonely Planet

Stone cottages are clustered in sixes, mimicking a traditional rondavel (African village), around flower-filled squares, facing Lake Duluti or landscaped gardens. — Condé Nast Traveler