ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK  

Giant Kingfisher
Tawny Eagle in Serengeti National Park
Bateleur on flight in Tarangire National Park
Flamingoes in Lake Natron
African white backed vulture
Lesser masked in Tarangire National Park
Secretary bird in Serengeti National Park
Lilac breasted roller in Serengeti National Park
Golden Winged Sunbird
Ostrich
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Overview:

Arusha National Park is located in northeastern Tanzania, just 25 km (30 minutes) from Arusha town and about 1.5 hours from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Despite being smaller than most of Tanzania’s national parks (just 137 sq. km), it is incredibly diverse in both landscapes and wildlife.

Key Highlights of Arusha National Park

 

Mount Meru

  • Tanzania’s second-highest mountain after Kilimanjaro (4,566 meters).
  • Offers challenging trekking and spectacular views.
  • A great acclimatization hike for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

 

Wildlife

  • Arusha is not known for the Big Five, but its rich in other species.
  • Common sightings include:
  • Giraffes, zebras, warthogs
  • Bushbucks, waterbucks, dik-dik, colobus monkeys
  • Buffaloes, and occasionally leopards
  • No lions or rhinos – but it’s famous for walking safaris with giraffes, something few parks offer.

 

Birdlife

  • A haven for birdwatchers with over 400 species recorded. Includes; Flamingos at Momella Lakes, Turacos, hornbills, and bee-eaters

 

Diverse Landscapes Arusha National Park is incredibly scenic and varied:

Ngurdoto Crater A collapsed volcanic crater (3 km wide), often called Little Ngorongoro

Momella Lakes Shallow alkaline lakes, famous for flamingos and canoeing safaris Mount Meru Forests Dense tropical forest with waterfalls, fig trees, and monkeys Grasslands and Savannah Open areas where giraffes, buffalo, and other animals roam

 

Location & Access

  • Distance from Arusha: ~25 km
  • From Kilimanjaro Airport: ~60 km (1.5 hours)
  • Easy to visit as a day trip from Arusha or Moshi • Ideal as a first stop on the northern safari circuit

 

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife and hiking
  • Wet Season (November to May): Lush scenery and best for birding
  • Mount Meru treks are best done during dry seasons for safety and views.

 

Top Activities in Arusha National Park

  • Game drives
  • Walking safaris (with armed ranger – unique and close-up experience)
  • Canoeing on Momella Lakes • Birdwatching tours
  • Mount Meru trekking expeditions • Photography tours (scenery and wildlife)

 

Why Visit Arusha National Park?

  • Closest safari park to Arusha town and Kilimanjaro Airport
  • Great for half-day or full-day safaris
  • Offers walking and canoeing safaris rare in other parks
  • Stunning variety of landscapes in a compact area
  • Ideal for families, birders, hikers, or those short on time