Arusha National Park
Is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and diverse national parks, located just 25 kilometers from Arusha city and close to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Although it is one of the smaller parks in Tanzania, it offers an incredible variety of landscapes, wildlife, and unique safari experiences all in one place.
Scenic Landscapes & Natural Beauty
The park is famous for its stunning scenery, which includes:
Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and the park’s main landmark. Its slopes are covered in lush rainforest and alpine vegetation.
Momella Lakes – A chain of shallow alkaline lakes known for their beautiful colors and large flocks of flamingos and water birds.
Ngurdoto Crater – Often called the “Little Ngorongoro,” this forested volcanic crater is rich in wildlife and offers breathtaking viewpoints.
Dense Forests & Open Grasslands – Home to a wide range of animals and bird species.
Wildlife Experience
Arusha National Park is best known for close-up wildlife encounters, especially in its forest and lake areas. You can expect to see:
Giraffes
Buffaloes
Zebras
Warthogs
Blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys
Hippos (in the lakes and rivers)
While large predators like lions are rare here, the park makes up for it with its peaceful atmosphere and rich biodiversity.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
With over 400 bird species, the park is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Tanzania. Highlights include:
Flamingos at Momella Lakes
Fish eagles
Hornbills
Kingfishers
Herons and pelicans
This makes it perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Unique Safari Activities
Unlike most national parks in Tanzania, Arusha National Park offers walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore nature on foot with an armed ranger. Activities include:
Game Drives – Explore the lakes, forest, and open plains by vehicle.
Walking Safari – Walk among giraffes, buffaloes, and wildlife in a safe and guided environment.
Canoeing Safari – Paddle on the Momella Lakes and enjoy birds and animals from the water.
Mount Meru Trekking – A multi-day climb for adventure seekers and hikers.
