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ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK 

Welcome to Arusha National Park!

Welcome to the home of the second highest mountain in Tanzania, which offers an unforgettable experience and serves as an acclimatization refuge before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is rich in game animals that can be viewed up close and is an ideal location for a day trip, with a variety of tourism activities such as game drives, mountain climbing, walking safaris, canoeing, cycling, and horse riding.

The conservation of the area dates back to 1907 when it was a cattle ranch. In 1960, the area was designated as Ngurdoto Crater National Park. Following the annexation of Mt. Meru, the park's name was changed to Arusha National Park, which now covers an area of 322 km².

Animals found in Arusha National Park

  • Giraffes

  • Waterbucks

  • Dik-dicks

  • Duikers

  • Zebras

  • Leopards

  • Lion

  • Spotted hyenas

  • Elephants

  • Bush pigs

  • Red duikers

  • Warthogs

  • Hippos

  • Black and white Colombus monkeys

  • Blue monkeys among others

A lion at night looks mysterious and strong, often seen walking quietly across the savanna under the moon, with its eyes glowing in the dark.

Tourists attraction in Arusha National park 

  • Ngurdoto Museum: Overlooking Ngurdoto Forest, home to black and white colobus monkeys, this museum features a collection of local animals, birds, and insects.

  • Lake Longil: The only freshwater lake in Arusha National Park, Lake Longil attracts buffaloes and waterbucks.

  • Tululusia Hill: Once a lookout during tribal wars, this hiking and camping area offers stunning views of Arusha National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Mount Meru.

  • Ngurdoto Crater: A swampy crater teeming with wildlife, it's a prime spot for game drives, where visitors can see buffaloes, elephants, monkeys, and various antelope.

  • Mount Meru: Africa's fifth-highest mountain at 4,566 meters (14,990 feet), Mt. Meru stands prominently, often visible while Kilimanjaro remains clouded.

  • Momella Lakes: Comprising seven shallow alkaline lakes, the Momella Lakes showcase vibrant shades of green and blue due to their algae.

  • Wildlife Diversity: The park boasts rich wildlife diversity, including the largest giraffe population in Africa, alongside buffalo, elephants, monkeys, and the occasional lion or leopard.

  • Fig Tree: The fig tree arch is a stunning natural formation in Arusha National Park, showcasing intertwined roots and branches in a serene setting.

Tourism Activities

  • Game Drive: With open glades, grasslands, and montane forests, a game drive in the park offers an inspiring experience for visitors.

  • Walking Safari (Day Hikes):This popular activity provides unique recreational opportunities, environmental education, and a closer connection to nature.

  • Canoeing Safari: Conducted on Small Momella Lake, canoeing allows visitors to access areas of nature that are hard to reach by vehicle or on foot.

  • Horse Riding Safaris: These rides offer a unique and intimate wildlife experience, bringing visitors closer to the natural surroundings.

  • Cycling Tour: A thrilling way to explore the park, cycling lets visitors discover diverse habitats and beautiful landscapes in a short time.

  • Climbing Mount Meru: Standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), the trek usually takes four days but can be done in three. All groups follow the same route from Momella Gate, staying in basic yet comfortable huts at two campsites before reaching Socialist Peak. Wildlife is often spotted along the trail, especially in the early stages, and a ranger typically accompanies groups on the first day for safety.

Mount Meru trekking offers an exciting adventure through lush forests and stunning landscapes to the summit, with breathtaking views.

The Best Time to Visit the Arusha National Park 

Arusha National Park offers stunning safari experiences year-round, with the best times depending on your interests. For game viewing, visit during the dry season from June to October when shorter vegetation makes animals easier to spot. For bird watching, the ideal months are November to April, when migratory species from Europe and North Africa enhance the experience.

Accommodation in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park offers a range of accommodations, including luxury, mid-range, and budget options, as well as various campsites. With numerous lodges and hotels, it provides a comfortable home away from home for safari visitors.

Planning an adventure? See why Arusha National Park tops the list!

The wonderful tree with a hall at Arusha National Park creates a unique and picturesque scene, blending nature’s beauty with the park's serene environment.

1-Day Arusha National Park Safaris 

Mount Meru with snow offers a stunning sight, with its snow-capped peak standing out against the clear sky and surrounding landscapes.
Arusha National Park is home to monkey species like the playful colobus and curious vervet monkeys, adding to its vibrant wildlife.

2-Day Arusha National Park Safaris 

Capturing natural beauty in Arusha National Park means photographing its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unique moments, showcasing the awe-inspiring wonders of this remarkable destination.
A lion chilling at night is a calm sight, resting under the stars in the quiet of the savanna, conserving energy for the hunt ahead.
A lion seen from above on a tree provides a unique view, resting or surveying the landscape.
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