Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a hidden gem in Tanzania, offering a more tranquil and diverse safari experience compared to the more famous parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Located just 30 kilometers from Arusha, the park is easily accessible and is known for its stunning landscapes, including the backdrop of Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, and the scenic Momella Lakes. The park is unique due to its combination of forests, wetlands, savannah, and volcanic landscapes, which support a diverse array of wildlife and offer a variety of activities.

What Makes Arusha National Park Special?

Diverse Landscapes: Arusha National Park is one of the most diverse parks in Tanzania. It features lush montane forests, open savannah, volcanic landscapes, and stunning lakes. The park’s Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 meters, offers a dramatic backdrop, and the Momella Lakes, with their rich birdlife, add to the park’s visual appeal.

Wildlife Variety: Despite being a smaller park, Arusha is home to a wide range of wildlife. You’ll see giraffes, zebras, buffalos, warthogs, and various antelopes. While it doesn’t have the Big Five, the park offers a more intimate and less crowded safari experience, with a chance to spot colobus monkeys in the forest and black-and-white colobus monkeys, which are relatively rare in other parks.

Proximity to Arusha Town: Arusha National Park’s proximity to Arusha makes it a great option for those who are short on time or just arriving in Tanzania. You can easily visit the park for a half-day or day trip from Arusha.

Best Activities to Do in Arusha National Park

Game Drives: Arusha National Park offers game drives that take you through its varied ecosystems. In the savannah areas, you can spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelopes. The park’s unique forest areas are also home to black-and-white colobus monkeys. While it’s not known for large predators, the park’s wildlife is abundant and easily accessible. The Momella Lakes, where flamingos are often spotted, add a distinctive element to game drives.

Walking Safaris: One of the highlights of Arusha National Park is its walking safaris, which allow you to explore the park on foot. Accompanied by a trained guide, you can enjoy a close-up view of the flora and fauna, learning about the smaller wildlife, birdlife, and ecosystems that are often overlooked on a typical game drive.

Canoeing on Momella Lakes: For something truly unique, canoeing on the Momella Lakes is an exciting activity. You can paddle along the lakes, with the chance to spot birdlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s a great way to experience the park from a different perspective and enjoy the tranquil environment.

Mount Meru Hikes: Arusha National Park is also a great place for hiking, particularly Mount Meru, which offers a challenging ascent and stunning views. Hiking to the summit takes several days and is ideal for those looking for an adventure, but the lower parts of the mountain offer shorter trails for casual trekkers, such as the Ngurdoto Crater Trail.

Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, Arusha is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s variety of habitats—wetlands, savannah, and forests—attract a wide range of species, including flamingos, hornbills, eagles, and sociable weavers. The birdlife around the Momella Lakes is particularly spectacular, especially during migration seasons.

What to Expect on a Game Drive:

Expect a relatively calm and scenic game drive compared to the larger parks in Tanzania. You will drive through diverse landscapes, from forested areas with monkeys to open savannahs with large herds of zebra and giraffe. While the park doesn’t have the Big Five, it makes up for it with its variety of smaller wildlife, including a variety of bird species. The Momella Lakes offer an excellent opportunity to see flamingos and other waterbirds. Expect lush greenery, dramatic volcanic views, and an overall peaceful safari experience.

Lodges to Look Out For:

Arusha National Park Lodge: Located just outside the park, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the park. It’s a great option for those looking to stay close to nature without venturing too far from town.

Momella Wildlife Lodge: Nestled in the park, this lodge provides a more immersive experience. It’s set near the Momella Lakes, making it a great choice for bird watchers and those wanting a scenic view of Mount Meru.

Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge: Located near the park, Ngurdoto offers a blend of luxury and convenience, with easy access to both Arusha town and the park. The lodge provides beautiful views and offers guided tours of the surrounding area.

Final Thoughts:

Arusha National Park is an excellent choice for a more relaxed and intimate safari experience. With its rich landscapes, diverse wildlife, and wide range of activities such as game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and hiking, it offers a unique opportunity to explore Tanzania’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day trip or an adventure around Mount Meru, Arusha National Park provides a rewarding experience for all types of travelers.