Arusha National Park
Location: Northern Tanzania, about 40 minutes (30 km) from Arusha town and 1 hour from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Size: Around 552 square kilometers — relatively small but incredibly diverse.
Arusha National Park is often described as a “miniature Tanzania” because it combines a variety of landscapes and ecosystems in a compact area. The park features lush montane forests, open savannahs, alkaline lakes, and mountainous terrain — including the majestic Mount Meru (4,566 m), Tanzania’s second-highest peak.
It’s the closest national park to Arusha town, making it perfect for a day trip or short wildlife safari.
Main Attractions
- Mount Meru:
- A dormant stratovolcano offering scenic treks through forests filled with wildlife.
- Climbing Mount Meru is an excellent acclimatization trek before Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Momella Lakes:
- A series of alkaline lakes (Small Momella, Big Momella, etc.) famous for their vibrant colors and large flocks of flamingos.
- Great for bird photography and scenic drives.
- Ngurdoto Crater:
- Often called the “Little Ngorongoro.”
- A lush crater about 3 km wide with swampy floors and steep forested walls — excellent for wildlife viewing.
- Montane Forests:
- Home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and abundant birdlife.
- The forest also has clear streams and waterfalls.
Activities in Arusha National Park
- Game Drives:
- Explore the park’s scenic routes around the Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater.
- Walking Safaris:
- One of the few Tanzanian parks where guided walking safaris are allowed.
- Walk through forest trails accompanied by an armed ranger — see giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys up close.
- Canoeing:
- Available on Small Momella Lake — a peaceful way to view wildlife and birds from the water.
- Bird Watching:
- Excellent for both beginners and serious birders due to the variety of habitats.
- Mount Meru Trekking:
- A 3–4-day climb offering panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains.
- Less crowded than Kilimanjaro but equally rewarding.
- Picnicking & Photography:
- The scenery — from lakes to mountain views — offers incredible photo opportunities.
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P.O. Box 63 Mto wa Mbu,
Monduli, Arusha.
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