If you’re planning a Tanzanian safari or a hike up Kilimanjaro, chances are you’ll spend a night in Arusha. After our 22-hour journey, Katambuga House turned out to be exactly what every adventure-seeking traveller hopes for: peaceful, comfortable and wonderfully low-key. The lodge sits on beautiful landscaped grounds and feels instantly calming. It was incredibly quiet during our stay, which made it the perfect spot to recover from jet lag before heading into the national parks. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely accommodating - exactly the kind of welcome you want when you’re running purely on airplane snacks and willpower. The design of Katambuga House is homey, unfussy, comfortable and clean. Nothing over-the-top - just simple, thoughtful spaces that felt easy to relax in. Meals are all-inclusive, and the food leans toward fresh, home-style cooking. The grounds are beautiful, with lots of green space and charming swimming pool that gives the whole place a relaxed, homely feel. We didn’t do much other than sit, breathe, and remember how to function, but if you’re looking for a spot to unwind before your adventure starts, this is ideal. For anyone searching for a quiet hotel near Arusha Airport (just 5-10 minutes by car), Katambuga House is a great pick. Top Tip: If you are you planning a safari trip, we highly recommend booking with a help of travel agents specializing in safaries. We booked ours with Yellow Zebra Safaris.