Arusha National Park is an excellent choice for a nature-filled day close to Arusha city. In a relatively compact area it combines the forests of Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater, the Momella Lakes and open habitats where giraffe, buffalo and other wildlife may be seen.
This is not the park to choose primarily for large predators or a “Big Five” checklist. Its strengths are varied scenery, birdlife, black-and-white colobus monkeys and the possibility of combining a vehicle safari with an authorised guided walk or, when available and pre-booked, canoeing.
What to see in Arusha National Park
Mount Meru
Mount Meru dominates the park and is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain. Its slopes support several habitats and provide a dramatic safari backdrop. Reaching the summit is a multi-day expedition and must be planned separately from a normal day visit.
Momella Lakes
The shallow Momella Lakes display different colours and support rich birdlife. Flamingos and other waterbirds may be present depending on season and water conditions. The surrounding road combines scenery, birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Ngurdoto Crater
Ngurdoto is one of the park’s major volcanic features. Designated viewpoints overlook its forested interior and wetlands. Wildlife may be visible, although sightings can never be guaranteed.
Forest and colobus monkeys
The montane forest is one of the best areas for the black-and-white colobus monkey. Blue monkeys and baboons may also appear.
Wildlife
Buffalo, giraffe, zebra, antelope, warthog, hippo and several primates occur in the park. TANAPA also lists elephant and leopard, but they are not necessarily easy to find on a short visit. Arusha complements rather than replaces Serengeti, Ngorongoro or Tarangire.
Activities
Vehicle safari
A game drive can cover the Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto viewpoints and forest and savannah areas. A full day leaves time for birds, primates and landscapes without rushing.
Guided walking safari
Walks take place in authorised areas with the required accompaniment. Tracks, plants and smaller wildlife become more important than on a vehicle safari. Advance confirmation is essential.
Canoeing
TANAPA includes canoeing among possible activities at Momella. Availability depends on authorised operations, conditions and advance booking.
A one-day safari from Arusha
The park’s location allows a morning departure and afternoon return. A balanced day may combine forest, Ngurdoto viewpoints, wildlife around Momella, lunch at an authorised site and one pre-booked activity. The guide should set the order according to access, weather and wildlife movement.
Getting there and best season
TANAPA places the park roughly 32 km from Arusha city and about 40 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Actual travel time depends on traffic, gate and road conditions. The park can be visited all year: drier months usually make travel easier, while greener periods bring vivid scenery and birdlife. Views of Meru or Kilimanjaro are never guaranteed because cloud can build quickly.
What to bring
- Neutral-coloured clothing and a light warm layer.
- Rain jacket in wetter periods and closed footwear for walks.
- Water, sun protection and insect repellent.
- Binoculars and a charged camera.
- Documents required for the applicable entry category.
Combining Arusha with other parks
Arusha National Park works well at the beginning or end of a circuit including Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Compare it with our private 2-day safari.
