Arusha National Park

So, are you ready to add this gem to your Tanzanian adventure?

Make A Your Dream Adventure

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a pocket-sized paradise waiting to be explored. While it may be one of Tanzania’s smaller parks, it punches well above its weight in natural beauty, wildlife diversity, and unique experiences. This park truly has everything from the lush rainforests teeming with monkeys to the shimmering waters of Momella Lakes dotted with flamingos. Whether you’re looking to climb Mount Meru, go on a walking safari, or simply soak in the breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro, Arusha National Park delivers a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Great For :

Game Drive

Walking safari

Canoeing

Biking Safari

Why Visit Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is often overshadowed by its larger counterparts, like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, but that’s precisely what makes it special. It’s an underrated gem that offers a more serene and intimate safari experience. Plus, its location near the bustling city of Arusha makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to fit a short safari or nature walk into their itinerary. Here are a few highlights of what makes this park stand out:

Stunning Landscapes: The park boasts three main ecological zones—lush forests, sprawling savannahs, and alkaline lakes.
Unique Wildlife: Home to giraffes, zebras, colobus monkeys, buffaloes, and over 400 species of birds.
Walking Safaris: One of the few parks in Tanzania where you can walk among the wildlife!
Mount Meru: A stunning dormant volcano and a popular trekking destination for those seeking an alternative to Kilimanjaro.

Top Attractions in Arusha National Park

1. Mount Meru

At 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re up for a multi-day trek to the summit or a short hike along its slopes, the views are absolutely breathtaking. The climb also doubles as an excellent acclimatization trek for those planning to conquer Kilimanjaro.

Fun Fact: Mount Meru is an active volcano, though its last eruption occurred over a century ago.

2. Momella Lakes

A series of shallow, alkaline lakes, the Momella Lakes are a birdwatcher’s dream. Flamingos are the stars of the show, but you’ll also spot pelicans, herons, and egrets. The surrounding landscapes are equally picturesque, making it an excellent spot for photography.

3. Ngurdoto Crater

Dubbed “Little Ngorongoro,” this volcanic caldera is a lush haven for wildlife. It’s often teeming with buffaloes, warthogs, and monkeys, and the views from the crater rim are simply unforgettable. While you can’t descend into the crater, the scenic viewpoints around it are worth the trip.

4. Lush Forest Trails

The forests in Arusha National Park are home to playful black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and shy leopards. Walking through these serene trails, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of birdsong, is an experience like no other.

Activities in Arusha National Park

1. Game Drives

The classic safari experience! Drive through the park’s diverse habitats to spot wildlife and enjoy incredible scenery. Morning and late afternoon drives are the best for animal sightings.

2. Walking Safaris

Few places in Tanzania allow walking safaris, but Arusha National Park offers this rare experience. A guided walk brings you up close to wildlife and helps you appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem.

3. Canoeing on Momella Lakes

For a truly unique adventure, try canoeing on the tranquil waters of Momella Lakes. Paddle alongside giraffes grazing on the shoreline and hippos lounging in the water.

4. Trekking Mount Meru

A bucket-list activity for avid hikers! The trek typically takes 3-4 days and offers dramatic views, wildlife encounters, and the thrill of standing on Meru’s summit.

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Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

The park is open year-round, but your experience may vary depending on the season:

Dry Season (June to October): Best for game viewing as the vegetation is less dense, and animals gather near water sources.
Wet Season (November to May): The park is lush and green, with spectacular birdwatching opportunities, especially from December to March when migratory birds arrive.

How to Get There

Arusha National Park is located just 35 kilometers (about 45 minutes) from the city of Arusha, making it one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania.

By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).
By Road: The park is a short drive from Arusha, and most tour operators include transportation in their safari packages.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options in and around the park to suit every budget:

Luxury Lodges: Hatari Lodge and Arusha Coffee Lodge offer high-end comfort with stunning views.
Mid-Range Options: Momella Wildlife Lodge is a charming choice near the park’s entrance.
Budget-Friendly: For those on a tight budget, camping within or near the park is an affordable option.

Arusha National Park FAQs

1. Can I see Mount Kilimanjaro from Arusha National Park?

Yes! On clear days, you can enjoy stunning views of Kilimanjaro from various points in the park.

2. Is Arusha National Park suitable for a family trip?

Absolutely. The park’s smaller size and accessibility make it a great option for families, especially those with kids.

3. How long should I spend in Arusha National Park?

A day trip is sufficient to see the park’s main highlights, but you can easily spend two days if you plan to hike Mount Meru or go canoeing.

4. Are there any Big Five animals in the park?

While you might spot buffaloes, the park isn’t known for Big Five sightings. It’s better suited for primate and birdwatching.

Exclusive Tour & Travel Packages

Here are some of our Exclusive Tour Packages highlighting the unique aspects of each place.

8 Days Tanzania Safari

14 Days Tanzania Safari

4 Days Tanzania Safari

11 Days migration Safari

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