Arusha National Park
🌍 Arusha National Park – Gateway to Tanzania’s Natural Wonders
Explore Wildlife, Mountains, and Scenic Beauty with Excellent Safaris
🦒 Overview
Arusha National Park, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and diverse parks. Though compact, it features varied landscapes—lush rainforests, open savannahs, crater lakes, and alpine moorlands. It’s the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, just a short drive from Arusha town and Kilimanjaro International Airport.
🗺️ About Lake Manyara National Park
📍 Location: Northern Tanzania
📏 Size: 552 km²
🕒 Best Time to Visit: June to October for dry wildlife viewing, November to May for lush scenery and birding
Arusha National Park is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors—but that’s what makes it a hidden gem. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your itinerary:
✅ Perfect for Short Safaris
Located just 40 minutes from Arusha town and close to Kilimanjaro International Airport, it’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a real wildlife experience.
✅ Diverse Landscapes in One Park
From montane rainforests and crater lakes to alpine moorlands and open savannahs, few parks offer this much natural variety in such a compact area.
✅ Unique Activities Not Found Elsewhere
It’s one of the few parks in Tanzania where you can enjoy walking safaris, canoe trips, and mountain trekking—offering a more immersive connection to nature.
✅ See Giraffes and Colobus Monkeys Up Close
Arusha is home to one of the largest populations of giraffes in Tanzania, along with rare black-and-white colobus monkeys that you can see swinging through the trees.
✅ Mount Meru Trekking
For adventurers, Mount Meru offers a challenging climb and stunning views of Kilimanjaro from the summit. It’s a fantastic acclimatization climb before attempting Kilimanjaro.
✅ Peaceful, Uncrowded Safaris
Unlike the busier Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Arusha offers a tranquil safari experience with fewer vehicles and more time to enjoy nature.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
| Season | Months | Experience Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June to October | Best for walking safaris, clear views of Mount Meru, less vegetation – easier wildlife spotting |
| Green/Wet Season | November to May | Lush scenery, excellent birding (especially flamingos at Momella Lakes), fewer tourists |
🏞️ Top Attractions
🏔️ Mount Meru Climb
🐘 Wildlife Safaris – Giraffes, zebras, colobus monkeys, buffalo
🌊 Canoeing on Momella Lakes
🥾 Walking Safaris near Ngurdoto Crater
🐦 Birdwatching with over 400 species
🚙 Activities with Excellent Safaris
Guided day trips from Arusha or Moshi
Mount Meru trekking (3–4 days)
Cultural tours to Meru villages
Walking and canoe safaris
Private birding excursions
🗓️ Sample Day Itinerary
🚐 Morning pick-up in Arusha or Moshi
🦓 Game drive in savannah & forest
🍱 Picnic lunch with scenic views
🥾 Optional walking or canoe safari
🌇 Return in the evening
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🕐 How long should I spend in Arusha National Park?
A full-day safari is perfect, but even a half-day tour offers a rewarding experience.
Are Big Five animals in the park?
No lions or rhinos, but you can see giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys up close.
📅 Can I climb Mount Meru with Excellent Safaris?
Absolutely! We organize 3 to 4-day treks up Mount Meru with expert guides and porters.
Is Arusha National Park suitable for kids or seniors?
Yes! It’s a low-altitude, relaxed park great for families and seniors, with optional walking or vehicle-based activities.
What should I bring for a day trip?
Binoculars, a camera, a light jacket, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, and sturdy shoes for walking safaris.
Is it crowded?
No. Unlike Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Arusha offers a peaceful, uncrowded safari experience.
🗣️ What Our Guests Say About Arusha national park

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