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.