Arusha National Park is a small but diverse national park located in northern Tanzania, just a short drive from Arusha town. Covering an area of 552 km², it is one of the most easily accessible parks in the country. Despite its smaller size, Arusha National Park is packed with diverse landscapes, including Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as a “mini Ngorongoro Crater.”
This park offers a quieter and more intimate safari experience compared to larger parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, making it perfect for a day trip or a short stay. It is also famous for its large populations of giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and a wide variety of birdlife, particularly around the Momella Lakes.
Mount Meru: The park is home to Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania and an excellent alternative for those looking for a challenging climb without the crowds of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Diverse Wildlife: While Arusha National Park doesn’t have all of the “Big Five” (no lions or rhinos), it is home to a wide array of wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, elephants, leopards, and colobus monkeys.
Scenic Landscapes: The park boasts a stunning mix of grasslands, rainforests, mountainous regions, and swamps, offering visitors incredible diversity in just a single visit. The views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days are spectacular.
Bird Watching: The park is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 400 species of birds, including flamingos, fish eagles, kingfishers, and a variety of waders around the Momella Lakes.
Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals are easier to spot in the thinner vegetation. The weather is cooler, making it ideal for hiking and climbing Mount Meru.
Wet Season (November to May): The park becomes lush and green, and it’s an excellent time for bird watching, especially as migratory species are present. While it may rain, the scenery is breathtaking.
Arusha National Park is located in northern Tanzania, just 25 km northeast of Arusha town, making it one of the most accessible parks in the region.
The park’s main attraction is Mount Meru, which offers a fantastic trekking experience. The Ngurdoto Crater and Momella Lakes are also major highlights.
Arusha National Park is home to giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, elephants, leopards, hippos, and various species of monkeys. It is also famous for its birdlife, especially around the lakes.
Yes, Mount Meru is a popular climbing destination, often seen as a preparatory hike for Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb takes 3-4 days and offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
You can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, canoeing on the Momella Lakes, bird watching, and climbing Mount Meru.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October) for easier wildlife viewing and trekking conditions. However, the park is also beautiful during the wet season (November to May), especially for bird watching.
Yes, due to its proximity to Arusha town, the park is a perfect destination for a day trip.
Yes, there are plenty of lodges and camps located just outside the park, as well as accommodation options in Arusha town, which is a short drive away.
Yes, the park’s accessibility and variety of activities make it a great destination for families. Children will enjoy the walking safaris, canoeing, and seeing wildlife up close.
Pack light layers for the varied temperatures, comfortable walking shoes if you plan to do a walking safari or climb Mount Meru, sunscreen, and a hat. Don’t forget your binoculars for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
