Arusha National Park

Nestled at the base of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and picturesque parks, located just 30 kilometers from Arusha town. Despite being one of the smaller national parks, it offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife, making it a perfect day-trip destination or the ideal starting point for a Tanzanian safari adventure.

The park is famous for its three distinct areas:

Ngurdoto Crater: A stunning volcanic crater with lush vegetation and swampy floors, often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro.”
Momella Lakes: A collection of alkaline lakes that attract a wide array of bird species, including flamingos.
Mount Meru: The iconic dormant volcano that dominates the park’s landscape, offering breathtaking hiking opportunities and views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Arusha National Park is home to giraffes, buffalos, zebras, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and a variety of antelope species. Although it is not a “Big Five” park, its charm lies in its scenery and tranquility, making it a favorite for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Highlights:

Canoe safaris on Momella Lakes.
Walking safaris with armed rangers for close encounters with wildlife.
Hiking and climbing Mount Meru.
Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.