Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a compact yet diverse wildlife reserve located just a short drive from Arusha town. Despite being smaller than other parks on the Northern Circuit, it offers incredible landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique activities like walking safaris and canoeing. With views of Mount Meru, flamingo-filled lakes, and misty forests, Arusha National Park is perfect for day trips and travelers with limited time.
📍 Key Facts
Location: Northeastern Tanzania, near Arusha city
Size: 552 km² (213 sq mi)
Established: 1960
Famous For: Mount Meru, walking safaris, birdlife, crater lakes
Best Time to Visit: June–February (clear skies and best views)
🐾 Wildlife in Arusha National Park
While it doesn’t have the Big Five, the park offers unique wildlife sightings:
Common Mammals: Giraffes, zebras, bushbucks, warthogs, black-and-white colobus monkeys
Occasional Sightings: Elephants, leopards, hyenas
Birds: Over 400 species including flamingos, turacos, hornbills, and trogons
🌄 What Makes Arusha Park Unique
Mount Meru (4,566m): Second-highest peak in Tanzania, ideal for acclimatization hikes
Ngurdoto Crater: Often called the “Little Ngorongoro”
Momella Lakes: Shallow alkaline lakes attracting thousands of flamingos
Rainforest & Waterfalls: Scenic trails through fig trees and mossy forests
Walking Safaris: One of the few parks where guided walking safaris are permitted
Canoeing Safaris: Paddle across Momella Lake with views of hippos and waterbirds
📸 Why Visit Arusha National Park?
For a day safari close to the city
To enjoy walking and canoeing experiences not offered in other parks
To explore diverse ecosystems in a single day
As a pre-safari or post-trek add-on near Arusha or Kilimanjaro
📚 Did You Know?
Mount Meru is often used as acclimatization for Kilimanjaro climbers
The park was featured in the film “Hatari!” starring John Wayne
You can walk with armed rangers and see giraffes on foot — a rare experience in Tanzania
Ngurdoto Crater was formed over 15 million years ago
