Arusha National Park – A Hidden Gem at the Safari Gateway
Located just 40 minutes from Arusha town, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse parks — a perfect introduction to the country’s incredible natural beauty. Though relatively small at 137 square kilometers, the park offers stunning scenery, varied habitats, and a rich variety of wildlife.
From lush montane forests and crater lakes to open grasslands and the towering peak of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a must-visit for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic, and activity-rich safari experience, especially for those with limited time.
Why Visit Arusha National Park?
1. Scenic Beauty in Every Direction
Arusha National Park is visually striking. It features:
•The forested slopes of Mount Meru, Africa’s 5th highest peak
•The Momela Lakes, known for their green hues and flocks of flamingos
•The Ngurdoto Crater, sometimes called “Little Ngorongoro,” with steep walls and a swampy floor
•Forested hills home to colobus monkeys and waterfalls
2. Unique Wildlife Encounters
While you won’t find lions or large predators here, the park is home to:
•Giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and buffaloes
• Blue monkeys and the rare black-and-white colobus monkey
•Hippos and waterbucks near the lakes
•Over 400 bird species, including flamingos, hornbills, and fish eagles
3. Walking Safaris & Canoeing – Get Out of the Vehicle!
Unlike many other parks, Arusha National Park allows walking safaris accompanied by armed rangers. You can track animals on foot, enjoy birding, and immerse yourself in the forest atmosphere. You can also take a canoe safari on Momela Lake, gliding quietly near hippos and water birds — a peaceful and unique safari activity.
4. Climb Mount Meru (For Adventure Seekers)
For those looking to prepare for Kilimanjaro or enjoy a quieter mountain trek, Mount Meru offers a challenging but rewarding 3–4 day climb through forests, moorlands, and alpine desert to its summit at 4,566 meters.
5. Ideal for Day Trips or Short Safaris
Because of its proximity to Arusha town, this park is perfect for day safaris, short layovers, or adding to the beginning or end of a longer Northern Circuit trip.
Top Activities in Arusha National Park
•Guided Game Drives – Half-day or full-day safaris through the park’s varied landscapes.
•Walking Safaris – Walk alongside giraffes, buffalo, and antelope with a park ranger for an up-close experience.
•Canoeing on Momela Lakes – Quiet, peaceful paddling among hippos and flamingos.
•Birdwatching – Especially rewarding near the lakes and forest edges.
•Mount Meru Trekking – A 3- to 4-day adventure ideal for experienced hikers or those acclimatizing for Kilimanjaro.
Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
•June to October (Dry Season) – Great for walking safaris and wildlife visibility.
•November to May (Green Season) – Lush scenery and excellent birding opportunities. Short rains in November and longer rains in March–May.
The park is open year-round and enjoyable in any season.
Where to Stay
Since the park is so close to town, many visitors opt for accommodation in Arusha, including:
• Boutique lodges
• Luxury resorts
• Budget guesthouses
For a more immersive experience, forest lodges and eco-camps are available near or inside the park.
Add Arusha National Park to Your Itinerary
Arusha National Park is ideal for:
•Travelers arriving in Arusha with a free day before a longer safari
•Families or first-time safari-goers looking for gentle game drives and guided walks
•Adventure travelers interested in climbing Mount Meru or canoeing
•Photographers and birders seeking dramatic landscapes and diverse species
Combine it with other parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti for a complete Northern Tanzania experience.
Visit Arusha National Park with Saya Blue Adventures
We offer custom day trips, walking safaris, canoeing excursions, and multi-day itineraries that include Arusha National Park. Whether you want to stretch your legs after a long flight, enjoy a peaceful pre-safari day, or explore off the beaten path — we’ll take you there with comfort, care, and expert guidance.
Let’s plan your Arusha escape — wild, peaceful, and unforgettable.