Overview
Arusha National Park is a small but spectacular park located in northern Tanzania, just a short drive from the city of Arusha. Known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, the park offers an impressive array of ecosystems, including lush forests, swamps, alpine meadows, and a beautiful crater lake. Spanning over 137 square kilometers, Arusha National Park is often overlooked in favor of larger parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, but it is a hidden gem that promises a unique and unforgettable safari experience.

The park’s proximity to Arusha makes it an ideal stop for those visiting Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, as well as for those interested in combining wildlife viewing with hiking and cultural experiences.

Wildlife in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a sanctuary for both wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The park’s varied landscapes support a rich diversity of animals, some of which are rarely seen in other Tanzanian parks.

• Giraffes and Zebras: The park is home to a large population of giraffes, which are commonly seen grazing on the treetops. Zebra herds are also frequently spotted in the park’s grassy plains and meadows. These herbivores provide excellent photographic opportunities and add to the park’s picturesque setting.
• Buffalo and Antelopes: Arusha National Park also hosts a variety of other herbivores, including Cape buffalo, impalas, gazelles, and warthogs. The park’s open grasslands and forest clearings provide ideal grazing grounds, and these animals often graze alongside each other, offering guests an exciting display of wildlife.
• Primates: One of the park’s unique features is its population of primates. The lush forested areas are home to troops of colobus monkeys, which can often be seen in the tree canopy. The park is also home to vervet monkeys and baboons. These monkeys add a playful element to the park’s wildlife viewing experience.
• Leopards and Other Carnivores: Although not as common as the herbivores, Arusha National Park is also home to predators such as leopards and hyenas. Leopards are elusive and are more often seen in the early mornings or late afternoons. The park’s dense forests provide perfect cover for these stealthy predators.
• Birdlife: Arusha National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds recorded. The park’s diversity of habitats – including wetlands, forests, and savannahs – attracts a wide range of bird species, including the African fish eagle, various hornbills, flamingos, and numerous species of herons, storks, and ducks. The park is an excellent spot for birding year-round, particularly during the wet season when migratory birds arrive.

Landscape and Ecosystems
Arusha National Park’s landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife. From towering volcanoes and crater lakes to lush forests and expansive savannahs, the park’s terrain offers a captivating backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

• Mount Meru: The park is dominated by Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Tanzania. Rising 4,566 meters, Mount Meru is an active volcano that offers challenging hikes and breathtaking views. The mountain is surrounded by lush montane forests and alpine meadows, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
• Ngurdoto Crater: At the base of Mount Meru lies the Ngurdoto Crater, a stunning collapsed volcanic crater often referred to as the “mini Ngorongoro.” The crater is a beautiful sight, with its rich vegetation and abundant wildlife, including buffaloes, warthogs, and baboons. It’s a great place for wildlife viewing and photography, as the animals are concentrated around the crater floor.
• Momella Lakes: The park features several alkaline lakes known as the Momella Lakes, which are scattered across the landscape. These lakes are home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and ducks. The lakes’ colorful waters create a vibrant and unique landscape, offering excellent photographic opportunities.
• Forest and Savannah: The park is characterized by a blend of forested areas, grasslands, and wetlands. The lower areas of the park are covered by lush, dense forests that are home to a range of birdlife and primates. These forests give way to grassy savannahs and meadows, which are ideal for spotting grazing animals like giraffes, buffalo, and zebras. The park’s diverse ecosystems create a varied and dynamic landscape, ideal for exploration and adventure.

Best Time to Visit
Arusha National Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique appeal.

• Dry Season (June to October): The dry season is the most popular time to visit Arusha National Park, as the weather is clear, and wildlife tends to gather around water sources. Game viewing is particularly rewarding during this period, as animals are easier to spot in the open savannahs. The clear skies also offer the best views of Mount Meru, making it the ideal time for trekking and photography.
• Wet Season (November to May): The wet season brings lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, making it a beautiful time to visit. While wildlife can be more challenging to spot due to the dense vegetation, birdwatching is exceptional during this period as migratory birds arrive. The park’s water sources also attract large numbers of flamingos and other waterbirds, making it an exciting time for bird lovers.

Activities in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to experience its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

• Game Drives: Game drives are the most popular activity in the park, allowing visitors to explore its many habitats and encounter a variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives through the open savannah, the Ngurdoto Crater, and around the Momella Lakes. Game drives provide opportunities to spot giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and a range of other animals. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game viewing.
• Walking Safaris: Walking safaris provide a more intimate experience of the park’s ecosystems. Accompanied by an expert guide, walking safaris offer the chance to observe the smaller aspects of nature up close, such as tracks, insects, and plant life. Walking safaris also provide the opportunity to learn about the park’s flora and fauna, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the environment.
• Hiking Mount Meru: Mount Meru is a popular hiking destination for those seeking an adventure. The trek to the summit is challenging and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike takes several days and passes through different ecosystems, from forests to alpine meadows. Hikers can spot a variety of wildlife along the way, including colobus monkeys and buffaloes. Reaching the summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding parks, including Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
• Cultural Tours: Visitors can also explore the local culture by visiting nearby villages, such as the Meserani Maasai village. Cultural tours provide insight into the traditions and lifestyles of the indigenous Maasai people, who have lived in the region for centuries.

Accommodation in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers a range of accommodations for visitors, from budget-friendly options to luxurious lodges.

• Luxury Lodges: There are several upscale lodges and tented camps located near the park, including the Lake Duluti Lodge and the Arusha Coffee Lodge. These lodges offer comfortable accommodations, exceptional service, and stunning views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscape.
• Mid-Range and Budget Options: For those seeking more affordable options, there are numerous mid-range lodges and budget-friendly campsites in and around the park. The Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge is a great option for those looking for comfort on a budget.
• Camping: For a more rustic experience, visitors can camp within the park’s designated campsites. This allows guests to be closer to nature and experience the park in a more traditional safari style.

Getting to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is easily accessible from the city of Arusha, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

• By Road: The park is located just a 30-minute drive from the city of Arusha, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a private vehicle to reach the park’s entrance. The drive from Arusha also offers scenic views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes.
• By Air: For visitors coming from other parts of Tanzania or from abroad, the nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, located about an hour’s drive from Arusha. There are also small chartered flights that can take visitors directly to the park’s airstrip.

Conclusion
Arusha National Park may be small, but it is filled with beauty, diversity, and opportunities for exploration. Whether you are looking for a relaxing safari, an exciting hiking adventure, or a chance to experience Tanzania’s wildlife and culture up close, Arusha National Park has something to offer. Its unique blend of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife make it an essential stop on any Tanzanian safari itinerary.