Arusha National Park

WELCOME TO

Arusha National Park

A scenic gem nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a compact and incredibly diverse sanctuary often considered the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. Despite being one of Tanzania’s smallest parks, its breathtaking variety of landscapes—from the mist-clad montane rainforest and tranquil alkaline lakes to the rugged peaks of Mount Meru and the dramatic grassy crater of Ngurdoto—creates a stunningly concentrated wilderness experience. What makes Arusha unique is its accessibility, intimate atmosphere, and the rare opportunity to explore on foot, offering a different pace from the vast plains of the Serengeti.

TRAVEL NOTE: Due to its smaller size and proximity to the city of Arusha, the park is perfect for a day trip or a two-day immersive experience. It is a malaria area, and visitors should take precautions. Park fees are required for all activities, and guided walks or climbs are mandatory for safety. It provides a serene and less-crowded alternative or addition to the larger parks.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The park is a year-round destination, but optimal conditions align with the dry seasons for the clearest views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, and for the best wildlife visibility.
June to October: The long dry season. This period offers the best overall conditions with minimal rainfall, excellent road access, and great visibility for photography, especially of the mountains.
December to February: The short dry season. Another excellent window with warm, dry weather. This is a peak time for viewing flamingos on the Momella Lakes.
March to May & November: The rainy seasons. The park is lush and green with fewer visitors, but trails can be muddy, and cloud cover often obscures the mountain views. Birdwatching is exceptional during these times.

ICONIC WILDLIFE

The park is dominated by the spectacular Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters (14,980 ft). The Ngurdoto Crater, often called the “Little Ngorongoro,” is a forest-fringed volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. The Momella Lakes, a series of seven sparkling alkaline lakes, are famous for their shifting algal colors and large flocks of flamingos and waterfowl. While large mammals like elephants and buffalo are present, the park is renowned for its troops of habituated colobus monkeys in the rainforest, giraffe herds on the open plains, and rich birdlife, including the colorful turaco.

EXPERIENCE & ACTIVITIES

Arusha National Park is celebrated for its variety of active pursuits. Walking safaris with an armed ranger through the montane forest or around the lakes are a major highlight. Canoe safaris on the Momella Lakes provide a tranquil, unique perspective for bird and hippo viewing. Scenic game drives offer chances to see wildlife against the backdrop of cliffs and waterfalls. Multi-day trekking on Mount Meru serves as both a spectacular adventure in itself and an outstanding acclimatization climb for those preparing for Mount Kilimanjaro. Cultural visits to nearby Meru or Maasai villages are also easily arranged.

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