Arusha National Park is a protected area located in northern Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. It is one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania, covering an area of approximately 137 square kilometers (53 square miles), but it is known for its diverse and stunning landscapes.
Arusha National Park boasts a wide variety of landscapes, including lush forests, grassy plains, swamps, and the rugged Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro. This diversity of habitats makes it an ideal location for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The park is home to a range of wildlife species, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species. Additionally, the park is known for its rich birdlife, with over 400 bird species recorded, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Arusha National Park is a popular starting point for treks to the summit of Mount Meru, which is a great acclimatization option for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek offers beautiful scenery and a chance to spot wildlife along the way.
The park features several alkaline lakes, collectively known as the Momella Lakes. These lakes are a great place to observe waterfowl, including flamingos, as well as other bird species. The lakes also provide a picturesque backdrop with the reflection of Mount Meru in the water.

Attractions of Arusha National Park

Ngurdoto Crater:

This volcanic crater, often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro,” is a highlight of the park. It is home to a variety of wildlife and offers scenic views.

Canoeing:

Canoeing on the Momella Lakes is a popular activity in the park. It provides a unique opportunity to get up close to waterfowl and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Walking Safaris:

Arusha National Park is one of the few Tanzanian national parks where walking safaris are permitted. Guided walking tours allow visitors to explore the park on foot and experience its natural beauty and wildlife in a more intimate way.

Cultural Heritage:

The park also has historical and cultural significance. It was established in 1960 and was the place where former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt went on a hunting expedition in 1909, which eventually led to his conservation efforts.
Arusha National Park is often overlooked by tourists in favor of the more famous Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Conservation Area, but it offers a unique and diverse experience for those who choose to explore it. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery, Arusha National Park has something to offer.

Arusha National Park Activities

Arusha National Park is a beautiful and diverse protected area in Tanzania, known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and various activities for visitors to enjoy. During the safari visit in park, below are some of the common activities to do and number of attractions to see. Arusha national park is one of the unique safari destinations you ought not miss while in your safari tour in Tanzania national parks.

Game Drives

Arusha National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, and various antelope species. You can go on a game drive with a knowledgeable guide to spot these animals in their natural habitat. Morning, afternoon and evening game drives offers the best opportunity for rewarding wild game viewing.

Canoeing:

The Momella Lakes in the park offer the opportunity for peaceful canoeing. You can paddle through the water and enjoy the scenic views while observing water birds and other wildlife.

Walking Safaris

Arusha National Park is one of the few national parks in Tanzania where guided walking safaris are permitted. Walking safaris provide a unique opportunity to explore the park on foot and get up close to the smaller flora and fauna.

Birdwatching:

The park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 400 bird species recorded. You can spot a wide variety of colorful birds, including flamingos, herons, and kingfishers.

Mount Meru Trekking

The park is also home to Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Africa. You can undertake multi-day treks to the summit, which provides a challenging alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro.

Picnicking

There are several designated picnic areas within the park where you can relax, have a meal, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Ngurdoto Crater

You can take a guided hike to the rim of the Ngurdoto Crater, a stunning volcanic crater that offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area.

Cultural Tours

Arusha National Park is in close proximity to several Maasai villages. You can arrange cultural tours to learn about the Maasai culture and their way of life.

Visit the Momella Waterfall

This beautiful waterfall is a popular spot in the park. You can take a short hike to reach the waterfall and enjoy the scenery.

Photography

The park’s varied landscapes, including montane forests, open savannah, and lakes, offer numerous opportunities for photography.

For more information, reach to us at Adventure in the wild safaris and we will help you plan your safari in Tanzania with the opportunity to visit Arusha National Park.

The Best time to visit Arusha national park

The best time to visit Arusha National Park in Tanzania depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. Arusha National Park is a diverse and beautiful destination with a mix of landscapes and wildlife. This is the guiding information about the weather and climate in Tanzania to help you when planning for your safari tour in Tanzania.

Dry Season (June to October):

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit the park. This period has mild temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it comfortable for outdoor activities like game drives and hiking.
Wildlife viewing is excellent during this time, as animals tend to gather around the remaining water sources, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot them even at a distance

Wet Season (November to May):

The wet season brings lush green landscapes and a burst of colorful flowers, which can be particularly appealing to some visitors.
Birdwatching is fantastic during this time, with many migratory bird species arriving.
However, heavy rains can lead to muddy and slippery roads, making some areas of the park less accessible, and it can be challenging to spot animals due to dense vegetation.

January to February:

These months are part of the short dry season, offering good wildlife viewing opportunities.
It’s also a good time for climbing Mount Meru, which is located within the park, as the skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable.

March to May

These months constitute the long rainy season, and while it might not be the best time for safaris, it can be an excellent time for lush landscapes and a quieter park experience due to fewer tourists.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Arusha National Park for wildlife viewing and a more comfortable overall experience is during the dry season, from June to October. However, if you’re interested in the park’s lush, green scenery and don’t mind the occasional rain, you can visit during the wet season, but be prepared for some travel challenges. Ultimately, your choice of when to visit should align with your personal interests and tolerance for weather conditions.

How to get there

Arusha National Park is located in northern Tanzania, and getting there typically involves traveling to the city of Arusha, which serves as a gateway to the park. There are several common ways to get to Arusha National Park.

By Air:

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): This is the nearest international airport to Arusha National Park, located approximately 1 to 1.5 hours away by road. Many international flights arrive at JRO, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Arusha Airport (ARK): A smaller airport in Arusha, some domestic flights operate here. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Arusha National Park.

By Road:

Most visitors travel to Arusha National Park by road. You can reach Arusha by bus or private car from other cities in Tanzania, such as Dar es Salaam, Nairobi (Kenya), or Moshi. From Arusha, you can hire a taxi, take a shuttle, or rent a car to reach the park.

Guided Tours:

Many tourists opt for guided safari tours that include transportation to and from Arusha National Park. These tours often provide all-inclusive packages, including park entry fees, accommodation, and game drives. There are several local tour operator companies which offer safari tours in Kenya like us do not hesitate to contact us through our Emails and contacts in our website if you do have an query an more information you would lie to know when planning to travel for Tanzania safaris.

Public Transportation:

Public buses and minibuses (dala-dalas) also run between Arusha and Momella Gate, the main entrance to Arusha National Park. However, this option may be less comfortable and convenient for tourists, and schedules can be irregular.

Walking or Biking:

If you are staying in or near Arusha, you might be able to walk or bike to the park, depending on your proximity. Always check with your accommodation and the park authorities for advice and safety information if you choose this option.

Accommodation/ Where to stay in Arusha National Park

There are several lodging facilities for the visitors to stay in during your safari visit in Tanzania most especially in Arusha National Park, including luxury, midrange, and budget lodges.

Luxury Lodges in Arusha National Park:

Arusha Serena Hotel: This lodge offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of Mount Meru and a serene environment. It’s known for its high-end amenities and services.

Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge: A luxurious lodge with spacious rooms and beautiful surroundings, offering a high level of comfort and service.
Midrange Lodges in Arusha National Park:

Mount Meru Hotel: This midrange option provides comfortable rooms and a range of amenities while being more affordable than luxury lodges.

Meru View Lodge: A cozy and well-maintained lodge that falls in the midrange category, offering good value for money.

Budget Lodges in Arusha National Park:

Momella Wildlife Lodge: This lodge provides budget-friendly accommodations within the national park, making it a great choice for travelers looking to save on lodging costs.

Arusha Backpackers Hotel: If you’re on a tight budget, this backpacker-friendly accommodation offers dormitory-style rooms and basic facilities.

Please note that availability and quality of accommodations may change over time, so it’s a good idea to check recent reviews and availability through online travel websites or contact the lodges directly for the most up-to-date information and reservations. Additionally, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during the high tourist season. But if you book your Tanzania safari with is, we will take on all the accommodation booking for you for the entire safari in Africa. Reach to us today and we will provide with all that necessary information you will need when planning your safari in Tanzania and in Arusha National Park.

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