While partner is hiking Kili...

Hi folks, we are just starting to plan a dream trip to East Africa (not until 2017 so loads of time). We expect to do a safari and hopefully an additional trip to Gombe National Park. One of us has the goal of attempting Kilimanjaro...the other, not so much.
I would appreciate any suggestions but mostly about the non-hiking partner, as she is not interested in going off on safari for a week with no one she knows. She would prefer to "chill" somewhere nearby. Is that possible? I have been to Arusha but only on an organized trip; I don't know if it might not be very dull to be alone in a hotel while my other half climbed the mountain.
Thanks.

There are many operators around Arusha which operates daily cultural tourism around Arusha. We are just coming from climbing Kilimanjaro for 7 days and our Dad 80 years, was just roaming around going daily cultural tourism to Maasai market, maasai village, snake parks etc. Therefore arrange such cultural tourism for her while you will be up the mountain

I agree with bridge35, there are loads of stuff to do here. Stay in Arusha or Moshi, and to day trips to villages, Maji Moto (hot springs), Lake Duluti, Arusha National Park. There are several hotels and lodges with big pools if you want to relax and swim.

In Arusha there's a camp site called Snake Park which I'd highly recommend. It's where many of the overland tours stay so there are always loads of people to speak with/make friends with. The bar is great, and there's a little zoo attached (with lots of snakes). They also organize some day trips. http://www.safarihq.com/accommodation/meserani-snake-park/

They're a sort of hub for trips into the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, so maybe she could book into a group trip for a few days while you're climbing.

There are many options! From Moshi, she could go on a easy hike, do a coffee tour, cultural tours or do a day visit to a park.

Thank you all very much. I'm encouraged by your good suggestions.

I can second the advice on staying at Snake Park near Arusha. Great bar with a friendly staff. And you will not get bored. There is plenty to do around Arusha.

Thanks, kareninsf. I'll check it out.

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