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Arusha National Park

Northern Tanzania · A Highly Accessible Wildlife Park

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Location

Northern Tanzania

Best Season

June – October

Ideal For

Families & Couples

From Arusha

~45 minutes

Arusha National Park is an easily accessible park that offers unique experiences for guests wanting to get closer to nature. Although it is standard practice in the majority of national parks across Tanzania to require visitors to stay within their vehicles when outside designated campsite and lodge areas, Arusha National Park distinguishes itself by offering the unique opportunity for guided walking safaris, expertly led by an experienced and armed ranger.

Engaging in this immersive experience allows for a truly unparalleled exploration of the diverse African montane forest, providing close encounters with its rich tapestry of wildlife and an impressive array of birdlife that is simply unmatched.

A perfect spot for a walking safari experience

Seeing a red duiker at close range is an exciting experience, and visitors may also encounter large buffalo herds grazing nearby — impressive in size but safely observed under the guidance of rangers. The park is also home to giraffes, elephants, and many other wildlife species living within its mountainous landscape.

Walking safaris can be tailored to suit different preferences in terms of duration and difficulty. The journey often begins on open plains, where animals such as zebras may be seen, before progressing into the forested areas near Mount Meru, where giraffes are commonly spotted. The experience typically concludes at the scenic Ulyulyusya Waterfall, offering a rewarding end to the adventure.

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Interesting Facts about Arusha National Park

While it is one of the smaller parks, Arusha National Park offers many attractions: Arusha Waterfall and Ngurdoto Crater. While the latter is only three kilometers across, it is so reminiscent of Ngorongoro Crater that the locals call it Ngorongoro's younger brother.

Arusha National Park is also home to the majestic Mount Meru. Standing at 4566 meters, this dormant volcano is the fifth highest peak in all of Africa. It is a popular destination for those who enjoy the challenge of climbing, or preparation for climbing nearby Mount Kilimanjaro.

The Momella Lakes are a series of shallow alkaline lakes famous for their scenic beauty and abundant birdlife, including flamingos and other water birds. These lakes create a striking contrast with the surrounding green landscapes and are a popular location for photography and canoeing.

In terms of wildlife, Arusha National Park hosts giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and several antelope species. The combination of forest, savannah, and wetland habitats supports this rich diversity of wildlife.

What Can Be Done in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park packs a remarkable variety of activities into a compact, easily accessible destination — from guided walks beneath ancient trees to paddling flamingo-lined lakes and summiting Tanzania's second-highest peak.

Game Drives

Spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, and black-and-white colobus monkeys across the park's diverse landscapes. The game drive circuits take you through open savannah, montane forest edges, and the shores of the Momella Lakes for a rich wildlife encounter in every habitat.

Walking Safaris

Explore nature on foot with an experienced armed ranger — one of the few national parks in Tanzania to offer this privilege. Walking safaris begin on open plains where zebras graze, progress into forested zones near Mount Meru where giraffes roam, and typically end at the scenic Ulyulyusya Waterfall.

Canoe Safaris

Paddle the tranquil Momella Lakes and enjoy peaceful waters surrounded by lush greenery and abundant birdlife. Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and kingfishers line the shores as you glide through one of the most scenic lake systems in northern Tanzania.

Birdwatching

The park hosts nearly 400 bird species across its forests, open grasslands, wetlands, and alkaline lakes. From the emerald-spotted wood dove in the montane forest to flamingos wading at the lakeshores, Arusha National Park is a paradise for birders at every level.

Mount Meru Hiking

Tackle Tanzania's second-highest mountain — rising to 4,566 metres — for a challenging and deeply rewarding multi-day adventure. The ascent passes through rich montane forest, open moorland, and dramatic volcanic scenery, with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro on clear days.

Photography & Picnics

Scenic viewpoints, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife make every stop a perfect photography opportunity. Designated picnic sites within the park let you pause, take in the scenery, and enjoy a meal surrounded by the sights and sounds of an untouched African wilderness.

Accessibility to Arusha National Park

Arusha is one of the most accessible cities in northern Tanzania, serving as a major gateway for safari tourism and mountain expeditions. It is well connected by road to nearby towns such as Moshi and the Kenya border at Namanga. The city is served by Arusha Airport, handling regional flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and other parts of Tanzania. For international travelers, most long-haul flights arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, located about an hour's drive from Arusha.

From Arusha, it is easy to reach Arusha National Park — only a short drive from the city center. Regular shuttle services, taxis, and tour operators make transportation convenient for visitors heading to national parks, cultural sites, and safari routes.

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FAQ

Where is Arusha National Park located?

The park is located in northern Tanzania, about 45 minutes from Arusha City and close to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

What is Arusha National Park famous for?

It is famous for Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, walking safaris, canoeing experiences, and beautiful landscapes.

What animals can be seen in Arusha National Park?

Visitors commonly see giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, colobus monkeys, flamingos, hippos, and various bird species. Lions are very rare in the park.

Can you climb Mount Meru from the park?

Yes. Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest mountain, is climbed through Arusha National Park and is a popular trekking destination.

What activities are available in the park?

Activities include game drives, walking safaris, canoe safaris on Momella Lakes, birdwatching, photography, and Mount Meru trekking.

How many days are enough for Arusha National Park?

A day trip is often enough for wildlife viewing, but 2–4 days are recommended for Mount Meru climbing.

What is the best time to visit Arusha National Park?

The park can be visited year-round, but the dry season from June to October offers the best wildlife viewing and hiking conditions.

Is Arusha National Park good for walking safaris?

Yes. It is one of Tanzania's best parks for guided walking safaris due to its peaceful environment and scenic surroundings.

Can canoe safaris be done in Arusha National Park?

Yes. Canoeing on the Momella Lakes is one of the park's unique activities, offering close views of birds and wildlife along the shores.

Why is Arusha National Park special?

The park is special because it combines mountains, forests, lakes, wildlife, and adventure activities in a compact and easily accessible destination near Arusha City.