Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park: A Complete Guide to Tanzania’s Hidden Gem
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s smallest but most diverse national parks. Covering just 137 square kilometers, it lies near the city of Arusha, making it one of the most accessible safari destinations in Tanzania. Despite its small size, the park features a variety of landscapes, from the lush rainforests on the slopes of Mount Meru to the alkaline waters of the Momella Lakes and the open savannah of the Ngurdoto Crater.
Unlike the larger parks of Serengeti and Tarangire, Arusha National Park offers a quieter and more intimate wildlife experience. It’s known for its diverse birdlife, colobus monkeys, and the opportunity to hike and climb Mount Meru – Africa’s fifth-highest mountain.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about Arusha National Park, including the best time to visit, top attractions, and practical travel tips.
Overview of What We’ll Cover:
Why Arusha National Park stands out
Best time to visit for wildlife and hiking
Top things to do and see in the park
Wildlife highlights – including rare primates and big game
Practical travel and safari tips
Why Arusha National Park Stands Out
Arusha National Park offers a unique mix of ecosystems and landscapes in a compact area, making it easy to explore in a day or two. Its close proximity to Arusha City (just 45 minutes by car) makes it a perfect starting or ending point for a safari in northern Tanzania.
Key highlights that make Arusha National Park unique:
Mount Meru – Africa’s second-highest free-standing mountain after Kilimanjaro.
Ngurdoto Crater – A collapsed volcanic caldera often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro.”
Momella Lakes – A series of alkaline lakes known for flamingos and water birds.
Montane Forest – Home to rare primates like the black-and-white colobus monkey.
Diverse Wildlife – Despite its small size, the park supports giraffes, zebras, buffalo, leopards, and hippos.
The park’s smaller size allows for shorter game drives and more focused wildlife encounters, making it ideal for families and travelers with limited time.
Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers good wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities throughout the year, but certain seasons provide better conditions.
June to October – Dry Season
Best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
Vegetation is thinner, making it easier to spot wildlife.
Clear skies provide excellent views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.
November to May – Wet Season
Best time for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive.
The park becomes lush and green, offering beautiful photography opportunities.
Rainfall is usually short and doesn’t disrupt game drives or hiking.
Pro Tip: For the best balance of wildlife viewing and hiking conditions, visit between June and October during the dry season.
Top Things to Do and See in Arusha National Park
1. Climb Mount Meru
Mount Meru stands at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) and is Africa’s fifth-highest mountain. The climb to the summit offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro, diverse plant life, and the chance to see wildlife such as buffalo and giraffes along the way. The trek typically takes 3 to 4 days and requires a guide.
2. Explore the Ngurdoto Crater
The Ngurdoto Crater is a volcanic caldera surrounded by lush forest and open grasslands. While visitors are not allowed to descend into the crater, you can enjoy panoramic views from the rim, where you’ll likely see buffalo, warthogs, and monkeys grazing on the crater floor.
3. Visit the Momella Lakes
The Momella Lakes are a series of alkaline lakes that attract thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. Canoeing safaris are available, offering a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife and landscapes. Hippos and giraffes are often seen near the water’s edge.
4. Go on a Game Drive
Arusha National Park may be small, but it offers excellent game viewing. The park is home to giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, and antelopes. Leopards and hyenas are occasionally spotted, and elephants can sometimes be seen near the forested areas.
5. Take a Walking Safari
Arusha National Park is one of the few Tanzanian parks that allow walking safaris. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you can explore the park on foot, giving you the chance to observe wildlife and learn about the park’s plant life and ecosystems up close.
6. Visit Tululusia Waterfall
Nestled in the montane forest, the Tululusia Waterfall is a refreshing stop on a walking safari. The waterfall is surrounded by thick vegetation, and you’ll likely spot monkeys and birdlife along the way.
Wildlife Highlights – What to Look For
Colobus Monkeys
Arusha National Park is one of the best places to see black-and-white colobus monkeys, known for their distinctive long, bushy tails and striking black-and-white fur.
Giraffes
Arusha is home to large numbers of giraffes, often seen gracefully walking through the open savannah.
Buffalo and Warthogs
Herds of buffalo and families of warthogs are commonly seen grazing on the plains and near the lakes.
Hippos
Hippos are frequently spotted in the Momella Lakes, especially during the early morning and late afternoon.
Leopards
Leopards are elusive but occasionally spotted in the wooded areas of the park.
Travel and Safari Tips
1. Choose the Right Safari Type
Private safaris offer more flexibility and personal attention.
Group safaris are more affordable and a great way to meet other travelers.
Self-drive safaris are allowed but require a 4×4 vehicle.
2. Pack Smart
Wear light, neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.
Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are essential for bird and wildlife photography.
3. Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from animals.
Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Never feed the animals.
4. Book Early
Lodges and camps in Arusha National Park are limited.
Book accommodations and park permits several months in advance.
Interesting Facts About Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park was established in 1960.
Mount Meru is a dormant volcano and last erupted over 100 years ago.
The park’s black-and-white colobus monkeys are known for their loud calls.
The park is located near the town of Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
