Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a multi-faceted jewel, often overlooked but offering some of the most diverse scenery in East Africa. Dominated by the towering peak of Mount Meru, the park encompasses lush montane forests, the alkaline Momella Lakes, and the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater.

It is distinctively known for its walking safaris, allowing you to get up close with giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys in their natural habitat. The absence of lions allows for a more intimate and active exploration of the wild.

Quick Facts

Best Activity Walking Safari / Climbing

Key Wildlife Giraffe, Colobus, Flamingo

Landmark Mount Meru (4,562m)

Duration 1 Day Safari / 3-4 Day Climb

Mount Meru

Standing at 4,566 meters, Mount Meru is Tanzania's second-highest peak. It serves as a perfect acclimatization run for Kilimanjaro or a stunning trekking destination in its own right, offering dramatic views of the ash cone and the distant roof of Africa.

Dramatic ridge walks
Stunning views of Kilimanjaro
Rich forest wildlife on lower slopes

The Momella Lakes

A collection of seven shallow alkaline lakes fed by underground water sources. Each lake has a different mineral content, supporting varying types of algae and attracting diverse birdlife, including thousands of lesser and greater flamingos.

Canoeing safaris
Hippos and waterbirds
Scenic picnic spots

Walking Safari

Walk freely among giraffes

Peak Climbing

Conquer Mount Meru

Bird Watching

Over 400 species

Photography

Dramatic landscapes

Sample 1-Day Itinerary

Morning Game Drive & Fig Tree Arch

Depart Arusha town early and enter the park through Ngongongare Gate. Drive through the lush montane forest, spotting blue monkeys and playful black-and-white colobus monkeys. Stop at the famous "Fig Tree Arch," a massive tree that has formed an archway over the road large enough for a car to pass through.

Midday Momella Lakes & Canoeing

Proceed to the Momella Lakes for a scenic picnic lunch. Enjoy the colorful spectacle of flamingos painting the water pink. Optional: Engage in a guided canoe safari on Small Momella Lake to drift silently past hippos and waterbucks.

Afternoon Ngurdoto Crater & Return

Visit the Ngurdoto Crater, often called "Little Ngorongoro." View buffalo herds on the marshy crater floor from the rim viewpoints. Conclude your day with a leisurely game drive as you exit the park and return to Arusha town by evening.