Arusha National Park is situated at the base of Mount Meru which is elevated at about 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) with extraordinary scenic landscapes, flora and fauna encounters. The park is a hidden gem neighboring the famous Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park. The Park offers exceptional adventures ranging from breathtaking scenery, unique biodiversity, lush forests, grasslands to wetlands, volcanic craters and remarkable activities for all travelers on vacation holiday.

Location and Overview

Arusha National Park is located in the Northern part of Tanzania requiring you to transfer shortly from the city of Arusha. The park covers an area of about 137 square kilometers (53 square miles) and very ideal for those looking for day trips or a short excursion on holiday vacation.

Geography and Landscape

Arusha National Park offers a range of habitats that support an array of wildlife and is subdivided into many distinct zones, each with its own unique features.

1. Mount Meru: Dominating the landscape, Mount Meru is an active stratovolcano with a craggy summit and a deep volcanic crater. The mountain is a popular trekking destination, offering a challenging climb and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the distant silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro.

2. Ngurdoto Crater: Often referred to as the “mini Ngorongoro,” this lush crater is an important feature of the park. It is covered in dense vegetation and is home to a wide variety of birds and animals. Visitors can take a guided walk around its rim, observing the rich flora and fauna in the area.

3. Momella Lakes: A series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes, the Momella Lakes are an idyllic spot for birdwatching and photography. The lakes attract a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. The surrounding marshes and grasslands provide perfect grazing grounds for antelope and zebra.

4. Rainforest: The lower slopes of Mount Meru are covered in lush rainforest, where visitors can enjoy walking safaris or hikes. The forest is teeming with wildlife, including monkeys, such as the colobus monkey, and various bird species, including the elusive black-and-white casqued hornbill.

Wildlife in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park may be small, but its diversity of wildlife is impressive. The park is home to a wide variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

1. Mammals: Although the park is not as well-known for large predators as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, it is still home to a significant population of mammals. The park’s open savannahs and wooded areas are home to species such as:

   • Giraffes: The park is famous for its population of the Masai giraffe, a subspecies of giraffe found only in central and southern Kenya and Tanzania.
   • Buffalo: The African buffalo can be seen in the park, particularly near the Momella Lakes.
   • Zebras and Antelopes: Common plains animals, including plains zebras, impalas, waterbucks, and dik-diks, roam the park’s savannah and forested areas.
   • Leopards and Hyenas: While less frequently seen, leopards and hyenas do inhabit the park, although their presence is more subtle compared to other parks.

2. Birdlife: Arusha National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from forested areas to wetlands, attract over 400 species of birds. Notable bird species include:

   • Flamingos: Momella Lakes attract both lesser and greater flamingos, especially during the wet season.
   • Birds of Prey: The park is home to various raptors, including the African fish eagle and the white-backed vulture.
   • Forest Birds: In the forested areas, you can spot colorful species such as the violet-backed starling, white-cheeked turaco, and the Schalow’s turaco.

3. Primates: Arusha National Park is famous for its primate species, especially the black-and-white colobus monkey. These monkeys are often seen in the forested areas, their striking black fur and white-tipped tails making them easy to spot. Additionally, visitors can observe other monkey species, such as the vervet monkey.

4. Reptiles and Amphibians: The park is also home to several reptile species, including crocodiles that inhabit the Momella Lakes, along with various species of snakes and lizards.

Activities in Arusha National Park

Despite its compact size, Arusha National Park offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to fully appreciate its natural beauty.

1. Safari Drives: Game drives in Arusha National Park provide opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife, from the iconic giraffe and zebra to the more elusive leopards and hyenas. While the park may not have the large concentrations of big game seen in other parks, its diversity of animals makes it a rewarding experience.

2. Walking Safaris: One of the highlights of Arusha National Park is the opportunity to go on guided walking safaris. These walks allow visitors to explore the park on foot, accompanied by experienced rangers. It’s an intimate way to experience the forest and observe the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as birds, insects, and plants.

3. Hiking and Trekking: For those seeking adventure, the hike to the summit of Mount Meru is a challenging but rewarding experience. The trek takes several days, and hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Mount Meru is also home to a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, elephants, and monkeys.

4. Canoeing on Momella Lakes: Another unique activity available in Arusha National Park is canoeing on the Momella Lakes. It’s a peaceful way to observe the lakes’ wildlife, including birds and hippos, and provides a different perspective of the park’s beauty.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife is more easily spotted as animals gather around water sources. However, the park is accessible year-round, and the rainy season (November to May) can be a good time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive, and the lush landscape is at its most vibrant.