Arusha National Park is a small but incredibly diverse national park in northern Tanzania, encompassing a wide range of habitats, from open savannah to alpine forests, and featuring three distinct geographical features: Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater.

It’s located northeast of Arusha city, which is the safari hub of northern Tanzania. It’s approximately 30 minutes by tarmac road from Arusha town.

The park is characterized by:

• Mount Meru: Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and a prominent volcano.

• Momella Lakes: A series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes.

• Ngurdoto Crater: A smaller, swampy caldera surrounded by forest, often called “Little Ngorongoro.”

Yes, on clear days, especially during the dry season, you can often get spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro from various viewpoints within the park.

The park is home to a diverse array of animals, including:

• Large numbers of giraffes: Arusha boasts one of Africa’s largest giraffe populations, making sightings very common.

• Zebras, buffalo, and various antelopes: Such as waterbucks, bushbucks, and common duikers.

• Primates: Notably the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and vervet monkeys.

• Hippos: Often seen in the Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater swamp.

• Elephants: Present but in smaller numbers and less frequently seen than in Tarangire.

• Hyenas and leopards: While present, they are generally rare and elusive to spot.

You can commonly see buffalo and elephants (though elephants are occasional). Lions are very rare, and rhinos are absent from the park. Leopards are present but highly elusive. So, it’s not considered a “Big Five” destination.

Game viewing is good year-round. The dry season (June to October) is generally best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is less dense. The wet season (November to May) is excellent for birdwatching, as migratory birds are present, and the landscape is lush and green.

Arusha National Park is unique for offering a wider range of activities than typical game drives:

• Game Drives: The most common activity, exploring the park’s diverse habitats.

• Walking Safaris: Guided walks are a major highlight, allowing closer encounters with nature.

• Canoeing Safaris: Offered on the Momella Lakes, providing a unique perspective of wildlife and birds.

• Mount Meru Climbing: A multi-day trek to Tanzania’s second-highest peak.

• Birdwatching: Excellent opportunities around the lakes and in the forests.

• Picnics: Designated picnic sites for lunch with a view.

Yes, many climbers use Mount Meru as an excellent acclimatization climb before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro due to its altitude.