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Arusha National Park - Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater, Momella Lakes

Explore Diverse Ecosystems from Lakes to Lush Forests!

Arusha National Park is renowned as the gateway to African Safaris. Situated just 37 km from Arusha town, this park is one of the most easily accessible and visually stunning national parks in Tanzania. Encompassing 137 sq. km, the Arusha National Park showcases a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

The landscapes in Arusha are among the most picturesque in Tanzania, featuring varied wildlife and iconic geographical features. The magnificent Ngurdoto Crater, located in the southeast, and the tranquil Momella Lakes in the northeast, provide unique environments for safari-goers on Tanzania Safari Tours.

Meanwhile, the towering Mount Meru, the fifth-highest peak in Africa, dominates the park's skyline. The summit offers extraordinary views of Mount Kilimanjaro, perfect for those warming up with Arusha Safaris before attempting Kilimanjaro.

The park's varied habitats, including shadowy montane forests, lush hills, grassy savannahs, and alpine deserts, support a wide range of wildlife. Visitors to Arusha National Park Safaris can spot giraffes, zebras, dik-diks, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, warthogs, as well as black and white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys. Additionally, those fortunate might see leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and wildebeests.

Moreover, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species. Bird enthusiasts can observe predatory birds such as Verreaux's eagle and a diverse array of waterbirds like flamingos, ducks, pelicans, herons, little grebes, and waders at Momella Lakes. The park also serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds from November to April, enhancing its appeal for those engaged in Tanzania Safari Tours.

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Highlights

  • Mount Meru: A majestic volcano with stunning vistas and climbing opportunities.
  • Ngurdoto Crater: Lush crater rich in wildlife and scenic beauty.
  • Momella Lakes: Vibrant alkaline lakes teeming with flamingos and birdlife.
  • Wildlife: Spot giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes in their natural habitat.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Enjoy forests, savannahs, and craters all in one park.

Offering Trek And Safari Tours From Past 13 Years

How To Go To Arusha National Park

Land at Kilimanjaro Airport, under two hours drive to the park's adventures.

Getting to Arusha National Park is easy and quick. The park is about a 45-minute drive from the town of Arusha and is well-connected by both road and air.

Here are the simplest ways to get there:

  • By Air: Fly directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is about 50km or 31 miles from Arusha. The car ride from the airport to Arusha usually takes around 1½ hours.
  • Alternative Airports: If you're coming from far away, you might land at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam. From there, you can get a connecting flight to Arusha Airport (ARK) or back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
  • Pick-Up Service: We will pick you up from the airport and take you where you need to go next.

Remember, travel times can change due to traffic or road conditions, so it's good to have some extra time planned.

In short, Getting to Arusha National Park for your safari adventure is straightforward. Whether you fly straight to Kilimanjaro or through Dar es Salaam, you'll find the journey smooth and simple.

All About Arusha National Park

A detailed guide on timings, attractions, and activities follows

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

Viewing wildlife in Arusha National Park is excellent all year but peaks during the Dry season, from June to October, making it a prime time for Arusha Safaris.

For those interested in the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for stunning landscapes, the Wet season, from November to May, offers the most impressive scenery, although it can be quite rainy and overcast in March and April.

If you're hoping to catch the best views of Mounts Meru and Kilimanjaro, plan your visit from December to February when the skies are the clearest.

Seasonal Breakdown:

  • Best Time: June to October, when wildlife spotting is at its prime.
  • High Season: The park is most crowded from July through March.
  • Low Season: April and May typically see fewer visitors, potentially lowering travel costs.
  • Best Weather: The period from June to October is characterized by minimal rainfall.
  • Worst Weather: April is the peak of the Wet season, with the highest chances of rain.

What to See Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife within its compact area, thanks to its varied geography and ecosystems. This picturesque park is home to one of the largest giraffe populations in Tanzania.

In addition to giraffes, commonly sighted Arusha Wildlife include lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and waterbucks. Leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs are also occasionally spotted.

The park is also renowned for its avian population, hosting over 400 bird species such as the Augur vulture, Verreaux's eagle, flamingos, ducks, pelicans, a variety of herons, little grebes, and waders, among others.

Alongside its abundant fauna, the major Arusha Attractions include the majestic Mount Meru, the impressive Ngurdoto Crater, and the beautiful Momella Lakes. These highlights are essential additions to any Tanzania Safari Itinerary, showcasing the natural beauty and biodiversity of Arusha.

Activities To Do In Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, present in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, offers a plethora of activities that can be enjoyed amidst its diverse landscapes and rich wildlife.

Here is a list of the top Things to Do in Arusha National Park:

  • Climb Mount Meru and Challenge yourself with a hike up Tanzania's second-highest peak.
  • Explore diverse habitats and spot wildlife like giraffes and elephants on game drives.
  • Experience the park's natural beauty on foot with our Tanzania Walking Safaris, with an armed ranger for safety.
  • Paddle among flamingos and other water birds in serene waters while canoeing at Momella Lakes.
  • Discover over 400 species of birds, from waterfowl to forest dwellers.
  • Learn about the park's flora, fauna, and cultural heritage by visiting the Ngurdoto Museum.

Ready to ditch the usual and dive into the extraordinary? Join Arusha Safaris for a walk on the wild side where every trail tells a story and every sunrise brings a new adventure.

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Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with a local, certified guide

Camping

We provide Kailas X3 III alpine tents with vestibules

Meals

All nutritious meals while on the trek.

Transfers & Porterage

To and from the airport and everything in between

Permits

All permit fees and taxes

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by nature, join our small groups

Animal In Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is teeming with diverse wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras. The park is also known for its striking black-and-white colobus monkeys and smaller creatures like dik-diks and warthogs. Experience this unique wildlife haven firsthand—plan your visit to Arusha National Park today!
Giraffe

Common

Hippo

Rare

Elephant

Common

Cheeta

Rare

Buffalo

Common

Zebra

Common

Black Rhino

Rare

Hyena

Common

Lion

Rare

Leopard

Common

What Is The Best Month To Visit Tanzania

Know more about the Perfect Season for Your Tanzanian Safari Magic!

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

January is a lush and vibrant time in the Serengeti, marking the peak of the calving season. The southern plains come alive with newborn wildebeests and zebras, offering a spectacular wildlife experience. The weather is warm with occasional showers, creating a green and flourishing landscape. This period is ideal for observing young animals and their interactions with predators, all while enjoying a relatively quiet park with fewer tourists.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

February continues the calving season with a high concentration of newborns across the southern Serengeti. The lush vegetation supports large herds of wildebeest and zebra, and predator activity remains high, making it an exciting time for wildlife viewing. The weather remains warm with occasional rains, and the park is still less crowded, providing excellent opportunities for intimate wildlife experiences.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

145MM

By March, the calving season begins to wind down, and the herds start moving northward. The landscape remains green and vibrant due to ongoing rains, but the vegetation starts to thicken, which can make wildlife spotting more challenging. However, the park’s reduced number of visitors means a more serene safari experience, and the start of the migration northward offers exciting prospects for observing the moving herds.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

340MM

April is characterized by heavy rains, making it one of the wettest months in the Serengeti. The landscape transforms into a lush paradise, but the roads can become muddy and challenging to navigate. Wildlife viewing can be more difficult due to dense vegetation and wet conditions, but the park’s reduced tourist numbers offer a quieter experience and a unique opportunity to see the park in its most verdant state.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

170MM

May continues with the long rains, maintaining the park’s lush, green appearance. The increased vegetation can obscure wildlife, making sightings more difficult. However, this is a less crowded time, providing a peaceful safari experience. As the migration herds start moving north, there are opportunities to witness the beginnings of the migration, offering a quieter but still engaging wildlife experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

June marks the beginning of the dry season, with warm, pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The landscape starts to dry out, and wildlife concentrations increase around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The Great Migration typically begins its journey northward, and the park’s clearer conditions provide excellent opportunities for viewing river crossings and large gatherings of wildlife.

Avg Temperature

18°C

Avg Rainfall

20MM

July is one of the prime months to visit the Serengeti, as the dry season is in full swing. The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti, where dramatic river crossings occur. The dry conditions ensure clear visibility and easier access to wildlife, though it is also the height of the tourist season. The warm weather and high concentrations of wildlife make for an unforgettable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

August continues with excellent conditions for wildlife viewing as the Great Migration remains in the northern Serengeti. The dry, warm weather makes for clear skies and easy access to the park’s various wildlife hotspots. This is an ideal time for witnessing the spectacular river crossings and observing large predator populations, though it can be quite busy with tourists.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

In September, the dry season persists, providing excellent conditions for game viewing. The Great Migration herds are still moving south, and wildlife remains concentrated around water sources. The dry weather and open landscapes make it easier to spot animals, and the crowds start to thin out slightly, offering a more relaxed safari experience compared to peak months.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

October marks the transition from the dry season to the short rains. The Great Migration herds continue their southward movement, and wildlife is concentrated around remaining waterholes. The landscape begins to show signs of green as the rains approach, and the park sees fewer tourists, making for a more tranquil and enjoyable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

125MM

November brings the start of the short rains, with occasional showers and a rapidly greening landscape. The migration herds continue moving south, and the park’s transformation into a lush environment offers beautiful scenery. The reduced number of visitors and vibrant landscape provide a serene and picturesque safari experience.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

December features ongoing short rains, which further enhance the park’s lush and green appearance. The calving season begins in the southern Serengeti, with herds returning and newborn animals becoming more common. The warm weather and vibrant environment, combined with fewer tourists, create an ideal setting for observing new life and enjoying a peaceful safari.

Fred Namwandu

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Arusha National Park

Everything You Want to Know About Arusha - Detailed Responses Inside!

Arusha National Park is in northern Tanzania, just 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) east of Arusha city. It’s easily accessible and is often a starting point for safaris in the northern circuit.

Arusha National Park is home to diverse wildlife including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The park is also famous for its large population of black-and-white colobus monkeys. Though it’s not a primary destination for big cats, you might spot leopards and hyenas.

Yes, Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, is a key feature of Arusha National Park. It’s a popular trekking destination for hikers seeking a less-crowded alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro.

Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and birdwatching, with over 400 bird species recorded. Hikes up Mount Meru are also a popular activity.

A full-day visit is ideal to explore the park’s highlights. However, a half-day tour can also be rewarding if you’re short on time.

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