Arusha National Park| Tanzania Wildlife Safaris Guide

Arusha National Park is an animal park located in northern Tanzania close to the city of Arusha. The Park is known for its remarkable diversity of landscapes, including mountain rainforests, savannas, alpine moorlands, and the iconic Mount Meru. Arusha National Park is also home to the world’s largest population of giraffes. This makes it a prime destination for giraffe enthusiasts. The Park is one of the only places in northern Tanzania where visitors can easily spot the black-and-white colobus monkey.

The Momella Lakes found in the park, are a series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes. They attract flocks of flamingos and other migratory waterbirds throughout the year.

Facts About Arusha National Park

  • Located in northeastern Tanzania, just northeast of the city of Arusha
  • Covers an area of 552 square kilometers (213 square miles)
  • It is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania
  • Has the largest population of giraffes in Africa
  • Home to diverse birdlife, especially forest species
Akagera National Park zebras

Arusha National Park Features and Attractions 

Arusha National Park offers a wide range of features and attractions for visitors to explore: 

Arusha National Park Features and Attractions 

Arusha National Park offers a wide range of features and attractions for visitors to explore: 

Mount Meru

Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters (14,990 feet). It is a popular hiking destination when visiting Mount Meru. Mount Meru offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscapes and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Momella Lakes

Momella lakes are a series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes that attract flocks of flamingos throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy canoe safaris on the lakes to observe aquatic wildlife and animals along the shores.

Ngurdoto Crater

This is a large, swampy crater that is home to a variety of animals, including buffaloes and warthogs.

Diverse Wildlife

The Park is home to a wide range of wildlife Animals. Arusha National Park Animals include herbivores such as elephants, hippos, buffalo, zebra, and occasional wildebeest. It is mainly known for its large population of giraffes and the presence of the black-and-white colobus monkey.

Arusha National Park Activities 

Arusha National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. These include: 

Walking Safaris

Arusha National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris are permitted. This allows visitors to get up close to the wildlife and habitats. Walking safaris are accompanied by armed park rangers for safety and provide opportunities to see animals like giraffes, colobus monkeys, and more. The best part is hiking to the top of Tululusia Hill for panoramic views of the Park.

Canoeing

Canoeing on the Momella Lakes is also a fun activity to do in Arusha Park. Visitors can drift along the shoreline and see wildlife like buffaloes, hippos, and birds. Canoe safaris typically last 2-3 hours and are a great alternative to traditional game drives.

Hiking Mount Meru

Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. It offers a challenging and rewarding hiking experience within Arusha Park. The 4-day hike to the summit provides opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy scenic views of the volcanic crater.

Birdwatching & Photography 

Arusha National Park is an excellent destination for birdwatching. The park has over 400 bird species including pelicans, flamingos, hornbills, and more. 

Game Drives 

Arusha National Park is a great place for game drives, especially in the Ngurdoto Crater and surrounding forest areas with high elephants, buffalos, hippos, and other wildlife densities. 

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

The best time to visit Arusha National Park for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this period, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals. However, the wet season from March to May is an excellent time for birdwatching. During this period the Park welcomes a variety of migratory bird species.

Arusha National Park Tanzania Wildlife Safaris Guide

Arusha National Park Accommodation

There are a few accommodation options within the Park, such as the Hatari Lodge and the Momella Wildlife Lodge.

However, most visitors choose to stay in the nearby town of Arusha. The town offers a wider range of lodges, hotels, and campsites to suit various budgets and preferences.

  • Mgashi Lodge
  • Rusizi Tented Camp
  • Akagera Game lodge
  • Karenge Bush Camp

Safety Guides and Tips 

  • Visitors are advised to hire a professional guide to take them around the Park.
  • Visitors should exercise caution and follow the instructions of their guides, as the Park is home to potentially dangerous wildlife such as elephants and hippos.
  • It is also important to respect the Park’s rules and regulations, which are in place to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

Arusha National Park Rules and Regulations

Visitors to Arusha National Park must adhere to the rules and regulations set by TANAPA. The rules include;

  • Staying on designated trails,
  • Not littering and respecting the wildlife and natural environment.
  • Hunting, fishing, and removing any natural resources are strictly prohibited.

Arusha National Park FAQs 

No. While Arusha National Park is home to various wildlife, it does not host all the Big Five. Visitors are more likely to spot herbivores such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The park also hosts the elusive black-and-white colobus monkey.

Yes, visitors can climb Mount Meru while visiting Arusha National Park.  

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