The national park, though small in size compared to other Tanzanian parks, is home to a surprisingly rich variety of landscapes across three distinct ecoregions. To the west, the Meru Crater channels the Jekukumia River, with the peak of Mount Meru standing majestically on its rim. In the southeast, the Ngurdoto Crater is filled with wide open grasslands. In the northeast, the shallow, alkaline Momella Lakes show off vibrant colors from algae and are famous for the many wading birds that frequent them. more so, Arusha National Park is home of second highest mountain in Tanzania – Mount Meru, that offers unforgettable experience and serves as acclimatization refuge before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Attraction found in Arusha National Park

Wildlife

Arusha National Park is one of the op places to visit during a Tanzania wildlife safari in the northern safari circuit of Tanzania. This beautiful park is a home to a variety of wildlife species, which can be seen in areas like Ngurdoto crater region, along the banks of lake Momella and Ujambo Wa Mbogo regions among others.  It’s famous for having the world’s largest giraffe population.  You can also find elephant, Cape buffalo, Warthog, bush pigs, waterbucks, bush bucks, duikers, dik- dik, spotted hyenas, leopards and lions. The park is also home to monkeys like Black and white colobus and blue monkeys.

Birds

Arusha National Park is renowned as a bird watchers paradise, boasting over 400 species of bird. Some of the bird species you might spot here includes lesser and great flamingos, hartlaub’s bustard, goliath heron, montane nightjar, maccoa duck, pink-backed pelican, red-eyed dove, woolly-necked stork, black heron, European white stork, cattle egret, black-faced sandgrouse, Egyptian goose, dwarft bitter, Africa swift, Shelley’s francolin, vulturine guineafowl, yellow-throated sandgrouse, hamerkop, coqui francolin and little swift among others

Game drive

A game drive is Arusha National Park is a thrilling chance to see Africa’s wildlife in their natural habitat. These usually tale place early morning and late afternoon when the animals are most active. The park is home to a diverse array of animals including flamingos, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, giraffes, and the unusual black-and-white colobus monkeys. Although they are rarely seen, you might also see African elephants and leopards can be found inside the park. During your game drive safari in the park, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of these animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. Guided tours not only offer local knowledge and interesting facts about the animals but also make sure that the experience is safe, enjoyable, and respectful to the environment.

Hiking and nature walks

Hiking and nature walk is one of the popular tourism activities within the park, offers visitors a chance to really connect with the beauty of the park on foot. The park has different trails suitable for all fitness levels, so everyone can enjoy exploring its wildlife and stunning landscapes. One of the most popular trails leads to the scenic Momella lakes, where vibrant birdlife flourishes, offering excellent bird-watching opportunities. During a guided hike, you’ll have the chance to learn about the diverse ecosystems that dwell in the park including montane forest, grasslands and wetlands. The guides will share interesting facts about the plants and animals you see, including medicinal plants and animal tracks. Walking safaris help you become more aware of your surroundings and bring a peaceful, close-to-nature feeling. During the walks, you will also have the chance to spot a variety of the forest dwellers such as playful colobus monkeys, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, giraffes as well as different colorful bird species among others. Hiking also takes you to amazing viewpoints where you can see Mount Meru and Ngurdoto Crater, offering breathtaking panoramas.

Canoeing on Mamella Lakes

Canoeing on Mamella Lakes is one of the mots unique and must-do activities while on a safari in Arusha National Park. these picturesque lakes are set against the backdrop of Mount Meru, are teeming with birdlife, making them a paradise for birdwatchers. Paddling through the calm waters allows visitors to tale in breathtaking scenery while listening to the tranquil sound of nature. The lakes are home to a variety of bird species such as Flamingos, Pelicans and African fish eagle which are often seen gliding gracefully above the shallow water. During guided canoeing trips, you’ll have the opportunity to discover hidden parts of the park and see wildlife in their natural environment. This activity usually takes about 2 to 3 hours and offers a wonderful alternative to the usual safari adventures.

Birding safaris

Arusha National Park is an outstanding Tanzania birding safari destination boosting over 400 bird species recorded to live in the park, the birds in the park include forest species, raptors, water birds and migratory bird species. While on your birding safari, you’ll have the opportunity to spot bird species such as  lesser and great flamingos, ring-necked dove, black-bellied bustard, European nightjar, black-head heron, helmeted guineafowl, little bittern , red-chested flufftail, common swift, intermediate egret, African green pigeon, saddle-bill stork, crested francolin, crested guineafowl, grey heron, European white stork , cattle egret, laughing dove, abdim’s stock, sombre nightjar, common ostrich, white-faced whistling duck, fulvous whistling duck, grey crowned crane and  red-knobbed coot among others.

Visit to Arusha National Park’s waterfalls

One of the hidden treasures in Arusha National Park is its beautiful waterfalls, which give visitors a perfect reason to explore deeper into the park’s lush environment. One of the most well-known waterfalls is the Ngurdoto waterfalls, where waters flow gently down rocky cliffs in a peaceful setting, surrounded by tall tress and colorful plants. On reaching to the waterfall, you will be treated with the romantic sounds of the water tumbling the pool which creates a peaceful ambiance, offering an ideal spot to relax, unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Cycling excursion 

Cycling in the park is a fun and exciting way to enjoy nature, and it’s often missed by those on safaris. This chance allows you to see a variety of different habitats in just a few hours, all while riding through beautiful areas. It gives you a true taste of the wilderness and the outdoors.

Horse riding

Horse riding safaris give visitors the ultimate feeling of being in the wild and closer to the wildlife. This riding provides a unique experience that differs from other tourism activities.

Accommodation in Arusha National Park

If you’re planning a safari in Arusha National Park, there’s no need to worry about where to stay. The park offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget. Whether you’re looking for something affordable, comfortable, or luxurious, you’ll find plenty of choices. These options include budget lodges, mid-range hotels, and high-end luxury, such as Arusha Coffee Lodge, Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, The African Tulip Hotel , Lake Duluti Serena Hotel , Hatari Lodge, Mvuli Hotel Arusha, L’Oasis Lodge and Restaurant Arusha, Ilboru Safari Lodge, Moyoni Lodge, Zawadi House, Palace Hotel Arusha, Kilimanjaro Eco Lodge -Arusha, Charming Eco-Homestay, Meru View Lodge, Mzunguu Safari Lodge , Moivaro Coffee Plantation , Lush Garden Hotel , Shu’mate Camp, Maasi Giraffe Eco Lodge, Kiota Nest, Itikoni Seasonal Cam, Momella Wildlife Lodge, Rivertrees Country Inn, African View Lodge -Arusha, Twiga Lodge and others.

Best time to visit Arusha National Park

The best time to visit Arusha National Park really depends on what you want to do and see. Generally, the dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. During these months, the weather tends to be cooler and less rainy, which makes it easier to spot animals because they gather around water sources. The plants are also less thick, giving you a clearer view during game drives and hikes. Plus, this is a great time for birdwatching since many migratory birds pass through during these months.

Contact our trusted tour operators for more information a Tanzania safari in Arusha National Park and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Africa Vacation Safari who offer the best tour packages while on your safari ai in Tanzania.