Arusha's best shopping is in crafts and gemstones. The Maasai Market around the central bus station area is a good starting point for beadwork, jewellery, and carvings — prices are negotiable, quality varies, and patience pays off. The Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre on the Dodoma Road has higher-end items at fixed prices, including excellent tanzanite, rubies, and garnets mined locally.
For day-to-day supplies, the Shoprite supermarket handles everything from toiletries to groceries. The Clock Tower area has several shops selling camping and safari gear, useful if you have forgotten anything before heading north.