Explore Arusha National Park
Why Visit Arusha National Parks?
Arusha National Park is a small but remarkably diverse park located in northern Tanzania, just a short drive (about 45 minutes) from the town of Arusha.
Though often overlooked in favor of the more famous Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha National Park offers a stunning variety of landscapes and wildlife within its compact 213 square kilometers (82 square miles).
Arusha National Park is also extremely accessible, located about 30 km (19 miles) from Arusha town and about 60 km (37 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). It’s ideal for a half-day or full-day excursion either before or after a longer safari.
This park is a favorite for day trips, especially for those arriving or departing from nearby Kilimanjaro International Airport. It is the perfect introduction or peaceful finale to a northern circuit safari.
Wildlife
Although Arusha is not a “Big Five” park (there are no lions or rhinos), it has a rich variety of wildlife. You can expect to see:
- Giraffes (in unusually high densities)
- Cape buffalo
- Zebras
- Waterbucks
- Warthogs
- Bushbucks
- Blue monkeys and the rare black-and-white colobus monkeyBlue monkeys and the rare black-and-white colobus monkey
- Abundant birdlife – over 400 bird species including turacos, trogons, hornbills, and flamingos around the lakes.
- The montane forest is particularly good for birdwatching and spotting primates.
Activities
Arusha National Park is unique in that it allows for several activities that are not typically permitted in larger Tanzanian parks:
Walking Safaris
Guided walks through the forest or up the slopes of Mount Meru for an up-close experience with nature.
Canoeing
Available on Momella Lakes, offering a tranquil way to view birds and animals from the water.
Game Drives
Great for exploring the different habitats of the park.
Mount Meru Climb
A 3 to 4-day trek for those looking for a less-crowded alternative to Kilimanjaro.
Best Time to Visit
The park is accessible year-round, but the best wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June to October), when animals are easier to spot. Bird watchers might prefer the wetter months (November to May), when migratory species are present and the forest is lush.
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