Arusha National Park, Manyara National Park & Ngorongoro Crater

Your Unforgettable Safari Awaits. Book Now with Protea Kilimanjaro!

Imagine waking up to the call of the wild, surrounded by some of the most pristine landscapes on Earth. From the towering peaks of Mount Meru to the lush, wildlife-packed floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour takes you through the best of Tanzania’s safari destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, these parks offer an unparalleled adventure.

Arusha National Park: Where Adventure Begins

Tucked away just outside Arusha, Arusha National Park is a paradise for those seeking diverse landscapes and intimate wildlife encounters. As you explore this hidden gem, you’ll find it offers more than meets the eye.

  • Why Visit Arusha National Park?
    • Breathtaking Views: Get up close to the majestic Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak—Marvel at panoramic views that range from forested hills to sweeping savannahs.
    • Wildlife Galore: This park is home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys—plus hundreds of bird species, including flamingos and the rare white-headed vulture.
    • Ngurdoto Crater: A miniature version of Ngorongoro, this lush, less crowded crater is perfect for stunning photography and peaceful wildlife encounters.
  • The Perfect Time to Visit: For the best safari experiences, travel during the dry season (June to October). But the park’s rich green landscapes offer a magical escape even in the rainy season.

Lake Manyara National Park: The Heart of Tanzania’s Wildlife

A world-class safari experience awaits in Lake Manyara National Park—famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingo-filled lakes, and vibrant forests.

  • Why Visit Lake Manyara?
    • Tree-Climbing Lions: Watch in awe as the famous tree-climbing lions lounge lazily in the acacia trees. A truly unique sight!
    • Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Over 400 bird species, including huge flocks of flamingos, make this park one of Africa’s top birding destinations.
    • Game Drives & Walking Safaris: Explore a variety of habitats, from lush woodlands to open plains, where you’ll see elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, and baboons.
  • The Best Time to Go: Peak game viewing occurs during the dry season (June to October), but the park’s beauty is timeless—whether it’s the green landscape after the rains or the vibrant wildlife during the dry season.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Eighth Wonder of the World

Step into one of the most incredible wildlife sanctuaries on Earth. The Ngorongoro Crater is an expansive, wildlife-rich volcanic caldera, teeming with game and natural beauty.

  • Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
    • A Safari Within a Crater: Imagine a 2,000-foot-high rim surrounding a valley full of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five”—lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards.
    • Epic Views & Unique Landscapes: Descend into the crater floor for one of the world’s best game viewing opportunities. You’ll encounter vast herds of wildebeest, flamingos in the lakes, and the ever-elusive leopard.
    • Cultural Heritage: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also home to the Maasai people, who live harmoniously with the park’s ecosystem.
  • When to Visit: The Ngorongoro Crater is a year-round destination. However, for the clearest views and optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is ideal.

Why Choose Protea Kilimanjaro for Your Safari Adventure?

When you book your safari with Protea Kilimanjaro, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re embarking on an adventure crafted with passion, expertise, and care.

  • Unrivaled Expertise: Our experienced guides know the ins and outs of Tanzania’s national parks, ensuring you have the most enriching and safe safari experience.
  • Tailored Itineraries: Whether you’re looking for a private tour, a family-friendly safari, or a romantic getaway, we offer flexible itineraries to meet your needs.
  • Luxury in the Wild: Stay in world-class accommodations, from luxury lodges to cozy tented camps, and enjoy all the comforts of home in the heart of the wilderness.

Exclusive Tour Packages Available:

  • Arusha, Manyara & Ngorongoro Safari: A 5-day adventure packed with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments.
  • Private Safari Experience: A custom-designed safari tailored to your preferences. Explore Tanzania at your own pace.

Book Your Safari Today!

Ready to explore the wild wonders of Tanzania? Don’t wait—secure your spot on an unforgettable journey through Arusha National Park, Manyara National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater today. Click below to begin your adventure!

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a compact yet incredibly diverse destination in northern Tanzania. Located just 25 km from Arusha city and 35 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, this park is an ideal day trip for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Despite its small size (137 square kilometers), Arusha National Park boasts a variety of habitats, including montane forests, grasslands, alpine zones, and volcanic landscapes, making it one of the most scenic parks in Tanzania.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and rare primates like the black-and-white colobus monkey. Birdwatchers will also find this park fascinating, with over 400 bird species recorded. The park’s highlights include Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater.


Best Time to Visit

Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your interests:

  1. Dry Season (June to October):
    • Ideal for game drives and walking safaris.
    • Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources.
    • The weather is dry and clear, offering stunning views of Mount Meru.
  2. Wet Season (November to May):
    • Best for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive.
    • The park is lush and green, perfect for photography.
    • February to March offers a chance to see baby animals during the calving season.
    • Note: April and May experience heavy rains, which can make some roads muddy and less accessible.

Key Attractions

  1. Mount Meru:
    • The park is the gateway to Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak (4,566 meters). It offers excellent trekking opportunities and stunning views of Kilimanjaro on clear days.
  2. Momella Lakes:
    • A series of shallow alkaline lakes that attract flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. Canoeing is also available for a closer look at the wildlife.
  3. Ngurdoto Crater:
    • Often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro,” this volcanic caldera is home to buffalos, warthogs, and other animals grazing on the crater floor.
  4. Wildlife:
    • Known as a “giraffe paradise,” the park also hosts zebras, warthogs, bushbucks, blue monkeys, and rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. Predators like leopards and hyenas are occasionally spotted.
  5. Birdlife:
    • The park is a birdwatcher’s dream, with species like flamingos, crowned eagles, and turacos.

How to Get There

  • By Road:
    Arusha National Park is about a 45-minute drive from Arusha town or 1.5 hours from Moshi.
  • By Air:
    The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, a 45-minute drive away.

Activities in Arusha National Park

  1. Game Drives:
    • Explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife.
  2. Walking Safari:
    • Accompanied by an armed guide, you can explore the forest and observe wildlife up close.
  3. Canoeing:
    • Paddle on the serene Momella Lakes and enjoy views of flamingos and other water birds.
  4. Mount Meru Climb:
    • For adventurous travelers, a multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Meru offers stunning scenery.