Arusha National Park
Tanzania’s Enchanting Wilderness at the Foot of Mount Meru
Overview
Arusha national communicated to be the gateway of the all the African Safaris. It is found 37 km from Arusha town, is a champion among the most successfully open and magnificent national stops in Tanzania. Spread more than 137 sq. Km, of land, this little national park has one of overpowering arranged assortment of vegetation in the nation.
Arusha offers a part of the enthralling scenes in Tanzania and varied wildlife. The fantastic Ngurdoto Crater lies in the south-east territory of the national park, the calm Momella Lakes in the north-east while the fifth-most significant zenith of Africa Mount Meru rules the diversion focus’ casing of reference. You can have uncommon points of view of the incomparable Kilimanjaro from Meru’s Peak, which is the perfect warm-up trek before summiting Mount Meru’s subtle cousin of Mount Kilimanjaro.
You can spot giraffes, zebras, dik-dik, elephants, wild bulls, hippo, warthog, dim and white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys. Moreover, if fortunes favors you can similarly spot panther, cheetah, hyena, wild canine and wildebeest.
It also has a differing aviary masses with in excess of 400 feathered creature species, making it a standout amongst the most adored spots of bird lovers. You can spot betoken scavanger,
Verreaux’s bird of prey and water winged animals, for instance, flamingo, duck, pelican, a combination of heron, little grebe and wader at Momella Lakes. Transient feathered creatures can in like manner be seen from November to April, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
What To See
In Arusha National Park, visitors can explore a stunning mix of landscapes and wildlife in a compact area. Highlights include Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater—home to buffaloes and warthogs—and the scenic Momella Lakes with flamingos and waterbirds. Giraffes, zebras, bushbuck, and the rare Colobus monkey are often seen, along with occasional sightings of leopards and hyenas. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Activities in Arusha National Park
Game Drives
Explore Arusha National Park’s diverse habitats on game drives that take you from forested slopes to open savannahs and crater floors. Spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, antelope, and various primates. Though lions are rare, the park’s variety and scenery make each drive rewarding.
Best for: Scenic viewing, general wildlife, and forest species.
Canoeing on Momella Lakes
Enjoy a peaceful canoe safari on the Momella Lakes, gliding past flocks of flamingos, waterfowl, and grazing animals along the shore. This unique experience allows you to see wildlife from a low and intimate perspective.
Walking Safaris
Guided walks through the park’s montane forests and grassy plains offer close-up encounters with wildlife and plant life. With an armed ranger, you might spot giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and monkeys while learning about tracks, birds, and the ecosystem.
Climbing Mount Meru
A challenging yet rewarding multi-day trek, Mount Meru offers stunning views, high-altitude wildlife (like klipspringers and eagles), and a more secluded experience than Kilimanjaro. The trek begins in the forest and passes through moorland and alpine zones to the summit.
Birdwatching
With over 400 bird species, Arusha National Park is a birding hotspot. The Momella Lakes attract flamingos, herons, geese, and other waterbirds, while the forests shelter turacos, hornbills, bee-eaters, and many forest specialists.
Cultural Visits
Combine your park visit with a stop in Ngarenanyuki or Usa River to experience local Meru culture. Participate in village tours, traditional food tastings, and visit local markets or farms to learn about the daily life in northern Tanzania.
Photography Safaris
From misty mountain slopes and crater vistas to wildlife by shimmering lakes, Arusha National Park is a dream for photographers. Capture giraffes framed by Mount Meru, playful Colobus monkeys in treetops, and birds reflected on calm lakes.
Start designing your perfect Serengeti adventure now — tailored just for you. Choose your preferred lodges, safari activities, and travel dates, and let our expert guides craft a personalized itinerary that ensures every moment is unforgettable.
