Arusha National Park is one of the most accessible and diverse parks in northern Tanzania. Located just an hour from Arusha city, it combines mountain landscapes, tropical forests, alkaline lakes, and open grasslands.
Although smaller than other parks on the northern circuit, its diverse ecosystems make it a must-see for those seeking a more relaxed safari, closer to nature, and with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The park is divided into three distinct areas:
Arusha isn’t a destination for spotting large predators, but rather for enjoying a more serene encounter with wildlife. It’s common to see giraffes, zebras, black and white colobus monkeys, baboons, warthogs, and antelopes, in addition to over 400 species of birds that inhabit the forests and lakes.
The park offers activities uncommon in other parts of Tanzania, such as guided walking safaris with rangers, canoe trips on the Momella Lakes, and guided ascents of Mount Meru, great for those seeking an active and unique experience before venturing into the Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, depending on what the visitor prefers.
My name is Cornelio, and I’ve been guiding safaris in Tanzania, in Arusha National Park, for over 15 years. What surprises visitors most is its incredible biodiversity within such a compact area: from the lush forests of Mount Meru to the Momella Lakes, where flamingos turn the water pink.
I recommend dedicating at least a full day to exploring the park at a leisurely pace. In the morning, you can take a walking or canoe safari, a unique experience if you’re tired of always traveling in a safari vehicle. You’ll be able to observe giraffes, colobus monkeys, and buffalo at close range. In the afternoon, a tour of the Ngurdoto Crater and its plains offers spectacular views and the chance to see families of zebras and antelopes in action.
Arusha is a peaceful park, ideal for those seeking a first encounter with Tanzanian wildlife, without the crowds of the larger parks in the north.
Thanks to its proximity to the city of Arusha and its easy access, this park is an excellent first stop for those beginning their journey through northern Tanzania. In a very short time, you can explore forests, plains, and lakes without long travel distances.
Arusha National Park is a small but magnificent treasure in northern Tanzania. Here, mountains, craters, lakes, and rainforests coexist, offering an up-close and diverse safari experience. Its landscapes are constantly changing, from the lush greenery of Mount Meru to the waters of the Momella Lakes teeming with birds.
Experiences and hidden gems you can’t miss
Wildlife you can discover:
Arusha National Park allows you to observe diverse fauna in compact spaces, with fewer visitors, combining mountainous landscapes, wetlands and savannas, offering a different and accessible safari within northern Tanzania.
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Contact us to kickstart your unforgettable safari experience. When requesting a quote, simply outline your desired trip itinerary, including your preferred activities, duration of stay in each park, and budget considerations. Our team at Safaris Africa United will craft a personalized and comprehensive itinerary tailored to your preferences, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey. Additionally, we offer the convenience of flight booking services upon request. Reach out today to begin planning your dream safari adventure with us.