Arusha National Park

Discover the beauty of Arusha National Park, from lush forests and volcanic craters to wildlife-rich plains near Arusha

Arusha National Park Safari

An Arusha National Park Safari is a perfect introduction to northern Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Located just 25 km from Arusha, the park offers diverse ecosystems—from montane forests to open savannah and volcanic craters. Visitors can spot giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and monkeys while enjoying canoeing, walking safaris, and breathtaking views of Mount Meru. Ideal for day trips or short safari adventures, it’s also a gateway to the famous northern safari circuit including Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Discover the Ultimate: Arusha National Park Safari.

Learn about wildlife, top attractions, things to do, and the best time to visit in this scenic safari destination.

Overview
Features and Attractions
Things to Do

Explore Tanzania’s Scenic Wildlife Park

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and scenic parks, covering 552 km². Despite its smaller size, it offers incredible biodiversity, featuring:

  • Forested slopes of Mount Meru
  • Volcanic craters like Ngurdoto Crater
  • Alkaline lakes such as the Momella Lakes
  • Open savannahs home to giraffes, zebras, and buffalo

The park is ideal for travelers who want a short, immersive safari experience with unique activities not always available in larger parks.

  • Mount Meru: Tanzania’s second-highest mountain at 4,566 m dominates the park. Trekking Mount Meru offers panoramic views and a challenging adventure.
  • Momella Lakes: A series of alkaline lakes renowned for vibrant flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds, changing color seasonally.
  • Ngurdoto Crater: Known as the “Little Ngorongoro,” this crater is a lush haven for buffalo, warthogs, and monkeys.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Although lions are absent, visitors can see: Giraffes, Zebras, Buffalo, Colobus monkeys, Bushbucks, and over 400 bird species.

Activities in Arusha National Park

  • Game Drives: Explore forests, grasslands, and lakeshores in a 4×4 vehicle while spotting wildlife.
  • Walking Safaris: Accompanied by trained guides, walking safaris let visitors track animals and discover local flora.
  • Canoeing: Paddle along the Momella Lakes to quietly observe wildlife from the water.
  • Mount Meru Trekking: A 3–4 day trek that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the northern safari region.
  • Bird Watching: Ideal for enthusiasts with over 400 species, including flamingos, turacos, and crowned cranes.

The Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

Here’s a month-by-month guide for visiting Arusha National Park.

January
February
March
April & May
June to October
November
December
  • Weather: Warm and dry; average temperatures 16–28°C (61–82°F)
  • Wildlife: Good sightings of giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and colobus monkeys. Birdlife abundant.

  • Best Activities: Walking safaris and crater hikes; excellent conditions for photography.

  • Weather: Hot and dry; low chance of rain

  • Wildlife: Large herbivore sightings remain consistent; predators are less active but still present.

  • Best Activities: Climbing Mount Meru (weather is clear), canoeing in Momella Lakes, day game drives.

  • Weather: Start of short rains; afternoons may have showers

  • Wildlife: Newborn animals appear, especially zebras and gazelles. Birdwatching is excellent.

  • Best Activities: Wildlife photography; pack lightweight rain gear for hikes and drives.

Weather: Peak of short rains; muddy trails possible

Wildlife: Park is lush and green; fewer tourists mean more solitude

Best Activities: Walking safaris and photography of vibrant landscapes. Avoid rugged 4×4 excursions if trails are slippery.

 

May

Weather: Still rainy, but less intense than April; cooler temperatures 15–25°C (59–77°F)

Wildlife: Excellent for observing young animals and migrating birds

Best Activities: Birdwatching and nature hikes; trails can be slippery, so sturdy boots recommended.

Weather: Dry season begins; clear skies and cooler mornings

Wildlife: Good predator activity; elephants often near water sources

Best Activities: Ideal for walking safaris, Mount Meru treks, and crater rim hikes.

 

July

Weather: Dry, sunny, cool mornings and evenings

Wildlife: High visibility; excellent for game drives and photography

Best Activities: Safari drives, walking safaris, and birding; perfect for early morning game viewing.

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August

Weather: Dry season continues; clear skies

Wildlife: Migration of bird species; active predators

Best Activities: Trekking, canoeing, and photography; great month for family safaris.

September

Weather: End of dry season; warm days, cooler nights

Wildlife: Prime time for predator sightings; excellent wildlife concentrations

Best Activities: Walking and game drives; fewer tourists than peak July–August.

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October

Weather: Start of short rains; green landscapes

Wildlife: Fewer crowds; animals still visible near water sources

Best Activities: Photography and nature hikes; pack light rain gear.

 

November

  • Weather: Short rainy season; occasional heavy showers

  • Wildlife: Park is lush and scenic; less predictable wildlife movement

  • Best Activities: Birdwatching, photography; good for quiet safaris with few tourists.

  • Weather: Rain tapering off; warm and humid

  • Wildlife: Young animals and bird species are active; predators less visible

  • Best Activities: Combination of hiking, walking safaris, and scenic drives; ideal for family trips before holiday peak.

These itineraries can be customized to fit your tastes and budget.

Arusha National Park proposed Itineraries

  • Midrange Safari
    2-Day Zanzibar to Ngorongoro & Serengeti Safari

    2-Day Zanzibar to Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari

    From$985
    1 Night
    Availability : Jun to March
    Zanzibar
    Tarangire > Ngorongoro Crater > Zanzibar
    This 2-day midrange safari offers a perfect short escape from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s famous Northern Circuit. Explore the wildlife-rich plains of Tarangire National Park and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, home to an incredible concentration of animals.
  • Luxury Safari
    2-Day Zanzibar to Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari

    2-Day Zanzibar to Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari

    From$1,120
    1 Night Safari
    Availability : Jun to March
    Zanzibar
    Tarangire > Ngorongoro Crater > Zanzibar
    Experience an unforgettable 2-day luxury safari from Zanzibar to Northern Tanzania’s iconic parks. This short yet immersive journey combines the wildlife-rich plains of Tarangire National Park with the breathtaking landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Private Safari

    12 Day – The Classic Tanzania Northern Safari and Mafia

    From$3,695
    12 Day/11 Night
    Availability : Jun to March
    Arusha
    Tarangire > Ngorongoro >Serengeti > Mafia > Dar es Salaam
    Experience the ultimate Tanzanian adventure with our 12-day Classic Northern Safari and Mafia Island escape! Explore the iconic Serengeti, witness the Great Migration, and encounter the diverse wildlife of Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater. Then, unwind on the pristine beaches of Mafia Island, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and discover the vibrant marine life of the […]

Frequently Asked Questions about Arusha National Park

Is Arusha National Park worth visiting?

Yes, it’s perfect for day trips and short safaris with scenic landscapes, wildlife, and unique activities like canoeing and walking safaris.

What animals can I see?

Giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and over 400 bird species.

How far is the park from Arusha?

About 25 km, roughly a 40-minute drive.

Can I see the Big Five here?

Only buffalo are part of the Big Five; lions and rhinos are absent. Combine with Serengeti or Ngorongoro for full Big Five experience.

When is the best time to visit?

Dry season (June–October) for wildlife viewing; wet season (November–May) for bird watching and lush scenery.

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