Cultural Heritage Centre
Cultural Heritage Centre
4
About
The Cultural Heritage Centre established in the year 1994. Is the first of its kind in Africa dedicated towards exploring the rich treasures derived from African Culture. This family business is the result of culmination of hard work, unwavering dedication and knowledge acquired from the forefathers. At the helm of the affairs is the versatile managing director, Mr. Saifuddin Khanbhai, who has a solid knowledge of African Culture and traditions. Culture Heritage Center has acquired iconic status due to the unique structure of the buildings within its compound and having the treasure chest of African art which is keeping African Art alive. The main building is designed to resemble the Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro. It also has an impressive array of arts and crafts including unique masks, Verdite carvings and paintings by famous African sculptures. Cultural Heritage now boasts an impressible Art Gallery was build on his vision which was to promote the work of the local artists. The exterior of the Gallery is imp rived by a drum, shield and spear, all major African symbols. The symbols resonate with the role of the Gallery that is to represent, communicate and celebrate Africa's Cultural Heritage. Among its many world famous pieces of Art is a 18 feet family tree which took 20 years to make. People from all over the world also visit Cultural Heritage, for its unrivaled reputation of having the finest Tanzanite stones which are also found in the Mererani hills of Tanzania, best in the world. The interior has three areas (i) History, (ii) Wildlife and (iii) soul. Ethnographic artifacts fill the History area, the wildlife area consists of contemporary paintings and sculptures of the curvatures roaming the African Savanna and the soul area captures Africa's energy allure and essence. The art gallery also has an amphitheatre which often shows on the life of special Tanzanian tribes like the Maasai, Pygmies and Hadzabe. It is also used for conferences. Also offered at the centre are day rooms found on the top of the building. They serve as resting place in the calm environment after a long safari trp. The spa at the Gallery offers a verity of personal care and treatments. The proceeds from the Gallery go to the conservation of elephants in Africa and the main concept of this is anti poaching clearly defined by the sculpture of the large unique beaded elephant. However, other causes such as orphanages, schools and boreholes and well drilling benefit from the proceeds. The centre also has a restaurant, coffee chop, spice centre, beads centre, and flea shop, which offers a variety of artifacts at different prices. Apart from the art the centre vibrated with warm hospitality. Cultural Heritage is visited by tourists from all over the world. It has been honored by visits from distinguished guests and state leaders such as President Bill Clinton, The prince William of Holland and his wife, Former UN secretary Mr. Kofi Annan, and celebrities such as Cindy Crawford. However every visitor who visits Cultural Heritage is treated as a Celebrity.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
1,132 reviews
Excellent
552
Very good
364
Average
150
Poor
34
Terrible
32
gilly-klm
Moshi, Tanzania43 contributions
Jan 2022
I went with my students to the Cultural Heritage for an Educational Tour. Since we had a very tight schedule we arrive a bit late 5:58 and they close at 6:00pm. We were happy to be allowed by the manager to undertake a quick tour for 15 minutes. We were so please to accomplish our mission as it would have been difficult to organize another tour. We saw Tanzaniate a very precious stone , Curving and May pictures at affordable price. I highly recommend visit Cultural heritage as they are friendly and they have allot of options for shopping.
Written February 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review. Glad you enjoyed the visit.
Written February 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jan Taylor
Atlanta, GA3 contributions
Mar 2021
We were lucky to have been taken to this beautiful arts and crafts gallery in Arusha before leaving the country. It was so big and the paints were just too beautiful, like the fact that they are mostly from the african artists. Prices are a bit high but they let you negotiate until you get the best price for yourself. Was able to buy a few souvenirs for my family and friends. A must visit place whilst in Arusha
Written April 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review and enjoying the vast variety of our African art collection.
Written April 8, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Victoria
Birmingham, UK10 contributions
Oct 2022
It was such an amazing place to visit and so worth our time. Free entry and the atmosphere was so calm and serene. The art itself is amazing and really evokes the cultural significance of the relationship between people and nature over time. The architecture of the museum itself is also stunning and the variety within is astounding. 100% would recommend if you're ever in Arusha.
Written November 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review and enjoying the art.
Written November 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mike d
Fort Lauderdale, FL5 contributions
Dec 2022
Once you enter this huge curio store you are immediately approached by an "assistant" who follows you until you leave. There is everything and more...Everything is extremely overpriced. we bought some carvings and the same where cheaper at the airport. Avoid this place.
Written December 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear Client,
I do not know if you are talking about our establishment for all the goods sold here at Cultural Heritage are on consignment and it goes back to help the community and we work on Fair trade. We support over 3000 Artists and we take pride in helping the artist and the community through Fair trade and we take pride in our quality and price.
Written December 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JohnL
Sweden27 contributions
May 2022
If you like arts and crafts this is definitely a place for you. There are some really cool things to see and the whole vibe and atmosphere is really nice. There are so many beautiful paintings and handmade crafts that you wanna buy everything. Unfortunately the prices are a bit high and we just bought a few small things.
Personally I would have liked some more alternatives than these fancy souvenirs but I guess those are the ones in the local markets and streets. Anyhow entrance is free and I really recommend a visit if you have some time to spare.
Personally I would have liked some more alternatives than these fancy souvenirs but I guess those are the ones in the local markets and streets. Anyhow entrance is free and I really recommend a visit if you have some time to spare.
Written May 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review and enjoying African Art and handicrafts. We have a vast variety of souvenirs for all price ranges and our prices are based on fair trade. Entrance is free of charge and you can see the largest collection of African antiques and Art for free. Thank you for the visit.
Written June 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Olrun Family
Anchorage, AK3 contributions
Jan 2023
I really appreciated the vast selection of carvings and paintings available for selection. Our tour company, Lendimi African Safaris brought us on the first day of our Arusha stay. A must see.
Written January 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review and glad you enjoyed the Art.
Written January 28, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Barry Marcus
1 contribution
Aug 2020
The Cultural Heritage Centre is a beautiful national museum of art and sculpture. Within the center there is a store which sells tanzanite jewelry. It was recommended to us by our guide. I purchased a beautiful tanzanite pendant for my wife which unfortunately was lost several months later as the chain broke. The chain was NOT purchased from the Cultural Center but rather back home.
I contacted the center in order to purchase a new one as I wanted to surprise my wife. Naturally I was very apprehensive to repurchase a new one by way of mail but I nevertheless decided to do so. I dealt with both Yasmin and Zehra who sent me a photo of a new pendant which they assured me was as beautiful as the one we purchased earlier. They had the records of our prior purchase. I took the chance to wire the money and very shortly thereafter we received an absolutely beautiful new pendant even with a new chain which I did not have to pay for. They were not only easy to deal with but absolutely reliable and honorable. I received exactly what I expected! I cannot recommend this store more for anyone who travels to beautiful Tanzania and would like to purchase a beautiful tanzanite piece of jewelry.
I contacted the center in order to purchase a new one as I wanted to surprise my wife. Naturally I was very apprehensive to repurchase a new one by way of mail but I nevertheless decided to do so. I dealt with both Yasmin and Zehra who sent me a photo of a new pendant which they assured me was as beautiful as the one we purchased earlier. They had the records of our prior purchase. I took the chance to wire the money and very shortly thereafter we received an absolutely beautiful new pendant even with a new chain which I did not have to pay for. They were not only easy to deal with but absolutely reliable and honorable. I received exactly what I expected! I cannot recommend this store more for anyone who travels to beautiful Tanzania and would like to purchase a beautiful tanzanite piece of jewelry.
Written February 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear Mr. Barry Marcus,
Thank you for the lovely review. We are so happy to hear your wife likes the pendant which is hand made by our famous jewelers. Though it took sometime to liase with the logistics of sending you the pendant but it was worthwhile for us to have always our satisfied clients. We always yearn for full satisfaction. Please convey our greetings to you wife and we wish her the best and hope she enjoys the pendant forever and once again thank you for your review.
Written February 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Janine B
Northampton, England, United Kingdom409 contributions
Feb 2023
We had a fleeting visit on our way to the airport and back home. We could have stayed several hours looking around at the beautiful carvings and other products. There is so much to see, carvings, textiles, Tanzanite, paintings and so much more.
Written February 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review and enjoying the art and handicrafts.
Written February 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrew H
Sydney, Australia89 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
Large and excellent range and quality of original paintings, wood carvings, tanzanite, pewter. Staff helpful. Prices are medium to high, but if you like collecting such items as we do this is best quality in Tanzania.
Prices are fixed but we think for higher priced items they will have small amount of negotiation. Government owned and run store.
They ship to overseas.
Prices are fixed but we think for higher priced items they will have small amount of negotiation. Government owned and run store.
They ship to overseas.
Written October 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your review. Our prices are based on fair trade basis.
Written October 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Haytham Abu Firas
Qatar14,115 contributions
Mar 2023 • Solo
You will be attracted upon entry by a traditional music. A 2 stories cylinder shape construction. Wonderful staff, many souvenirs, gifts, paintings, wallpapers and statues of people and animals of the region. Unfortunately I missed Tanzanite stones. Hope to have other chance to visit again. I bought some handmade pots. Worth a visit.
Written March 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the review. You are most welcome to visit us again.
Written March 6, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Simon J
1 contribution
I would like information about a bronze mask I purchased at the Center and would like to send photos but I can't find an email address to send them.
Simon J
1 contribution
I would like to learn about a bronze mask I purchased and would like to send photos but I have no email address.
huggies22018
Hurghada, Egypt
We like to visit you, but cannot find the opening hours.
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Cultural Heritage is open from 8.30am to 5 pm everyday.
Monica D
Washington DC67 contributions
Do you have Shona stone carvings?
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Yes we do have them, you are most welcome to come and see them
What is the entrance fee
avmaster
Amstelveen, The Netherlands125 contributions
There was no entrance fee
Banka L
1 contribution
what is the entrance fee?
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
There is no entrance fee to enter Cultural Heritage, You are most welcome to visit us.
blondechickma
Boston, MA315 contributions
What are your hours?
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Cultural Heritage is open from 8.30 am to 5 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 8.30 am to 2 pm on Sunday.
You are most welcome to visit.
Gavin F
Sydney, Australia32 contributions
Hi, I purchased some tanzanite at the Cultural Centre on the 9th of January. It was a 0.7 carat stone, with four smaller stones and a small Tsavorite. I think I was served by Mr Khanbhai, who passed me onto another server when my card played up. I was able to finish my purchase with the card and cash I had on me (It was a constant problem in Africa wherein my card didn't like making large purchases!). So I still have the receipts for the purchase of which I'm quite pleased.. However, I had to race out due to my tour group leaving. Two questions: 1. Is it still possible to get a certificate for my stones? I only found out later that this was available as I have the receipts. 2. Is it still possible to buy gems from Mr Khanbhai, from Australia? He had good prices on the stones I saw.
Cheers,
Peter
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Dear Peter,
Thanking you for visiting us and regarding your questions please call us on +255 27 250 7496/8698 so we can do the needful for sending you the certificate for your purchases.
asheemmital
Goa, India1 contribution
Is the centre open on Sundays and holidays
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Yes it is open on Sundays and public holidays.
ChappySeattle
Seattle40 contributions
I just returned from a wonderful visit to Tanzania, and noticed that many of the places we stayed had a game called "Bao" in the lodge area. I really wanted to purchase an authentic game while we were in country, but did not have any time to go shopping. Someone suggested the Cultural Heritage Center, and I found their website, but most of the links are broken and I cannot find out how to email them. Can someone help with an email address or perhaps suggest somewhere that I can purchase a Bao game made in Tanzania? Thanks!
Cultural H
Arusha, Tanzania
Glad you enjoyed your visit to Tanzania. Our website had technical issues which are now resolved and you can contact us for the bao game on our telephone no: +255 27 250 7496/8698 as we have a wide collection of bao games of which we can send you pictures and you can purchase online.
Cultural Heritage Centre (Arusha) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Cultural Heritage Centre
- We recommend booking Cultural Heritage Centre tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 13 Cultural Heritage Centre tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Cultural Heritage Centre:
- 24 Hours in Arusha—Arusha Museum, Cultural Heritage, Maasai Market, Shanga (From $151.70)
- Essence of Arusha City Tour (From $150.00)
- Tanzanite tour in Arusha (From $170.00)
- Tarangire National Park Day Trip (From $532.00)
- Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip (From $740.00)
- Hotels near Cultural Heritage Centre:
- (1.13 mi) Nyumbani Hostel Arusha
- (0.97 mi) Arusha Coffee Lodge
- (0.91 mi) Tumaini Cottage
- (2.61 mi) White House Of Tanzania
- (2.97 mi) The African Tulip
- Restaurants near Cultural Heritage Centre:
- (0.10 mi) The Freshers (tfc)
- (2.11 mi) Five Chutneys
- (0.10 mi) Kung Fu Panda Hinese Restaurant
- (2.04 mi) Khan's BBQ
- (3.11 mi) Georges Tavern