Arusha National Park
The Jewel of Arusha
Arusha National Park is a small and stunning gem nestled between the giants of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. Defined by three distinct ecosystems—Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater—this park offers a refreshing change from the traditional vehicle-based safari. It is a microcosm of East African ecology, famous for its unique activities like canoeing and walking safaris, and is the best place in Northern Tanzania to spot the beautiful Black and White Colobus monkey.
The Triple Landscape
Arusha National Park is defined by its breathtaking geographic diversity. Within its compact borders, you travel from dense montane forests on the slopes of Mount Meru to the grassy, swampy floor of a volcanic crater, and finally to the shimmering, alkaline Momella Lakes.
ESTABLISHED
1960
LOCATION
NORTHERN
PARK SIZE
137 km²
ELEVATION
1,500 - 4566 m
Accessibility
Air
Accessible from both Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport
Road (From airport or Arusha)
Easily accessible by a 45-minute road transfer from Arusha city or about a one-hour drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and 50min drive from Arusha Airport.
The Journey
The park’s main gates are quickly reached via excellent tarmac roads, allowing for efficient day-use itineraries.
Habitats: Three Jewels
Arusha National Park’s varied topography means that weather and altitude play a major role in what you will experience.
Mount Meru
Mount Meru
Ngurdoto Crater
Ngurdoto Crater
The Momella Lakes
The Momella Lakes
Climate and Seasons
HIGH SEASON : JUNE - OCTOBER
Dry season
Clear, cool skies offer the best views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Wildlife viewing is excellent, especially on the Momella plains.
Best time for
Mount Meru climbing and general game viewing.
LOW SEASON : MARCH - MAY
Rain Season
The scenery is lush and beautiful. The Momella Lakes fill up, attracting migrant birds. Mountain views are often obscured by clouds.
The Green Sanctuary
Birdwatching, photography, and walking safaris (paths are less dusty).
Signature Arusha National Park Wildlife
The Black and White Colobus Monkey
This is the undisputed star primate. Their long, shaggy coats and striking white tails make them impossible to miss as they leap dramatically through the forest canopy—a sighting guaranteed here.
Other mammals
Look out for Waterbuck, Bushbuck, Warthogs, and the curious Blue Monkeys in the forested areas.
500+ bird species
Over 500 recorded bird species make this a vibrant destination for bird lovers, particularly during the wet seasons.
Giraffes
Arusha National Park hosts a large and healthy population of Maasai giraffes, which are frequently seen gliding gracefully across the plains, often near the Momella Lakes.
Elevate Your Trip
Arusha is one of the few parks that allows non-traditional activities, offering close and personal interaction with the environment:
Canoeing Safari
Glide across the calm waters of Small Momella Lake. This allows for unparalleled photographic opportunities of hippos, waterbirds, and animals grazing on the banks, with the backdrop of Mount Meru looming above.
Guided Walking Safaris
Accompanied by an armed ranger, walking is permitted on designated trails. This is the best way to experience the montane forests, spot Colobus monkeys, and track wildlife on foot.
Mount Meru Trek
The park’s centerpiece is a challenging 4-day trek up the dormant volcano. It is an excellent climb in its own right and serves as superb acclimatization training for those planning to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro.
Game drives
Explore the various zones, particularly the Ngurdoto Crater rim and the Momella plains, providing diverse views and opportunities to spot larger mammals like giraffes, buffalo, and zebra.
Where to Stay?
Most travelers visit Arusha National Park as a day trip from the nearby city of Arusha, which is rich with accommodation options. However, there are a few excellent options bordering the park for a more intimate experience:
Arusha City Hotels
The sheer number of hotels and lodges in the town of Arusha makes it the convenient base for a day visit.
Local Lodges and Camps
Highly scenic boutique lodges and tented camps are situated just outside the park gates, offering easy morning access and spectacular views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Why go to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is essential for the traveler who wants more than just a standard game drive. If you are passionate about birdlife, love to hike, or want the unique thrill of canoeing past a herd of buffalo, this park’s blend of mountains, forests, and lakes makes it an unforgettable, highly active, and perfectly accessible jewel on the Northern Circuit.
Starts your Arusha adventure here!
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Lake Manyara National Park
Home of the tree-climbing lions and pink-hued flamingo shores.
Lushoto and Usambara Mountains
A lush biodiversity hotspot of ‘champagne air,’ ancient forests, and dramatic viewpoints.
Tarangire National Park
The majestic kingdom of elephants and ancient giant baobab trees.
