Exploring Themi Falls on Tanzania Safaris
Themi Falls is not like the other waterfalls you will encounter on Tanzania safaris. It is not a remote cascade hidden deep in a national park or a thundering curtain of water on a major river. It is a peaceful, man-made oasis located within Themi Falls Leisure Park, right on the outskirts of the city of Arusha. On Tanzania safaris, most travellers rush past the turnoff to Themi Falls on their way from Kilimanjaro Airport to their safari lodge. They see the sign and keep driving, eager to get to the Serengeti. That is a loss. Themi Falls is not a natural waterfall. It was created by a dam on the Themi River, but the effect is beautiful. The water drops over a stone wall into a wide, clear pool, surrounded by shady trees and green lawns. On Tanzania safaris, Themi Falls is the perfect place to relax on your first day in Tanzania, to stretch your legs after a long flight, and to adjust to the African sun before heading out on safari.
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What to See at Themi Falls on Tanzania Safaris
The Themi River and the Arusha Water Supply
The Themi River is an important source of water for the city of Arusha. The dam that creates Themi Falls was built to regulate the water supply and to prevent flooding. On Tanzania safaris, the river flows down from the slopes of Mount Meru, through the city, and eventually into the swamps to the south. The water is clean and clear, though you should still avoid drinking it directly. On Tanzania safaris, the river supports a surprising amount of wildlife, even within the city limits. You might see monitor lizards sunning themselves on the rocks, or troops of vervet monkeys playing in the trees along the banks. The birdlife is abundant, with kingfishers, herons, and the beautiful African paradise flycatcher all found near the water.
Themi Falls Leisure Park and the Local Community
Themi Falls Leisure Park is a community-focused recreation area. On Tanzania safaris, it is a place where local families come to celebrate birthdays, to have picnics, and to escape the heat of the city. There are small food stalls selling grilled meat, chips, and cold sodas. On Tanzania safaris, you can hear the sounds of children laughing and music playing from a nearby radio. It is not a tourist attraction. It is a real place where real Tanzanians relax. Spending time here gives you a glimpse of daily life in Arusha, far from the safari lodges and the tourist shops. The local people are friendly and welcoming. A smile and a "Jambo" (hello) will go a long way.
The Vervet Monkeys and the Urban Wildlife
One of the unexpected delights of Themi Falls is the wildlife. The park is home to a large troop of vervet monkeys. On Tanzania safaris, these cheeky, grey monkeys with black faces are common throughout East Africa, but watching them interact is endlessly entertaining. The monkeys are used to people, but they are still wild. On Tanzania safaris, you should keep a close eye on your picnic lunch. The monkeys are expert thieves, and they will snatch a sandwich or a bag of chips in a flash if you turn your back. Do not feed them. It is bad for their health and encourages aggressive behavior. Just watch them from a distance. The babies are particularly cute, clinging to their mothers' bellies as they leap from tree to tree.
The View of Mount Meru and the City Skyline
Themi Falls Leisure Park is located on the lower slopes of Mount Meru. On a clear day, you can look up from the waterfall and see the massive volcanic peak rising above the city. On Tanzania safaris, the view is spectacular. The mountain is often shrouded in clouds, but when the clouds part, the sun lights up the grey rock and the green forest on its slopes. Behind you, you can see the skyline of Arusha, the city known as the "Safari Capital of Tanzania." On Tanzania safaris, the contrast between the natural waterfall and the urban backdrop is a reminder that Arusha is a modern, growing city, not just a jumping-off point for wildlife
Best Time to Visit Themi Falls on Tanzania Safaris
The best time for Tanzania safaris to visit Themi Falls is during the dry season from June to October. The weather is sunny and warm, perfect for a picnic and a swim. The water flow is steady. The wet season from November to May brings heavy rains, and the river can become muddy and fast-flowing. The waterfall is more powerful, but swimming can be dangerous. For most travellers, Themi Falls is a year-round destination, but the dry season is the most pleasant. On Tanzania safaris, it is the perfect stop on your first day in Tanzania, after a long flight, to help you shake off the jet lag.
How to Get to Themi Falls on Tanzania Safaris
Getting to Themi Falls is very easy. The park is located on the eastern edge of Arusha city, about a 15 minute drive from the city center. On Tanzania safaris, your driver will know the way. The road is paved, and a 2WD vehicle is fine. From the main road, you will turn onto a short, gravel track that leads to the park entrance. There is a small entrance fee, paid at the gate. On Tanzania safaris, Themi Falls is a perfect half-day trip, especially if you have some time to kill before a flight or after a safari. It is also a great option for families with young children who might not be ready for a full day of game driving.
Where to Stay on Tanzania Safaris near Themi Falls
On Tanzania safaris, Themi Falls is located within the city of Arusha, so there are hundreds of accommodation options nearby. The city has a wide range of hotels, from luxury lodges like the Arusha Coffee Lodge to budget hostels and guesthouses. On Tanzania safaris, if you have a free day before your safari starts, you can stay at a hotel near Themi Falls and walk to the park. The area around the falls is a quiet residential neighborhood, so it is safe to walk during the day. Your hotel can arrange a taxi if you prefer not to walk.
Why Book with Dav Safaris for Tanzania Safaris
Booking your Tanzania safaris with Dav Safaris ensures that your visit to Themi Falls is relaxing and hassle-free. Our local guides know the best time to visit to avoid the crowds, the safest spots for swimming, and the best stalls for grilled meat. On Tanzania safaris with Dav Safaris, we can arrange a half-day trip to Themi Falls as part of your Arusha city tour. You just show up with your swimsuit and a towel. You can combine a visit to Themi Falls with a trip to the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre or the Maasai Market. You focus on the cool water, the friendly monkeys, and the peaceful green lawns. We handle everything else on your Tanzania safaris.
