Explore Tanzania's Gems

Northern Tanzania

A Scenic Introduction to Tanzania's Wildlife & Landscapes

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania's most diverse and visually striking national parks, offering a unique blend of wildlife, landscapes, and outdoor activities within a compact area.

Despite its smaller size, Arusha National Park surprises visitors with dramatic scenery, rich birdlife, and varied ecosystems ranging from lush forests to open grasslands.

Why Visit?

  • Spectacular views of Mount Meru and Ngurdoto Crater
  • Canoeing on the Momella Lakes
  • Walking safaris with armed rangers
  • Over 400 bird species recorded
  • Perfect for day trips from Arusha
Arusha National Park
552 km²

Park Area

4,562m

Mount Meru Peak

400+

Bird Species

Year Round

Best: Jun–Oct & Nov–May

A Park of Remarkable Landscapes

Arusha National Park is defined by its incredible geographical diversity.

Mount Meru

Tanzania's second-highest mountain (4,562m) dominates the park's skyline with stunning trekking routes.

Momella Lakes

A series of alkaline lakes known for flamingos and waterbirds, perfect for canoeing safaris.

Ngurdoto Crater

Often called "Little Ngorongoro," this volcanic crater offers spectacular views and wildlife sightings.

Montane Forest

Dense forests with open savannahs and acacia woodlands, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Wildlife

Wildlife & Birdlife

While Arusha National Park is not known for large predator populations, it offers excellent sightings of plains game and primates in a peaceful setting.

Common Wildlife

  • Giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs
  • Bushbucks and waterbucks
  • Blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys
  • Occasional sightings of leopards and hyenas
  • Hippos in the Ngurdoto Crater

Birdwatcher's Paradise

Over 400 bird species recorded, including flamingos, pelicans, hornbills, turacos, and birds of prey.

Arusha Wildlife

Unique Safari Activities

Arusha National Park offers activities not commonly available in other Tanzanian parks.

Game Drives

Enjoy relaxed game drives through forested areas and open plains, ideal for photography and wildlife observation.

Walking Safaris

Accompanied by an armed ranger, explore the park on foot and learn about plants, tracks, and smaller wildlife.

Canoeing Safaris

Canoeing on Momella Lakes offers close encounters with birds and water-dwelling wildlife from a unique perspective.

Mount Meru Trekking

Scenic trekking routes on Mount Meru serve as perfect acclimatization before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (Jun–Oct)

Pleasant weather, excellent visibility, and animals gather at water sources. Best for game drives and wildlife photography.

Green Season (Nov–May)

Lush landscapes, fewer visitors, outstanding birdlife. The park's altitude keeps temperatures cooler year-round.

Arusha NP

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