NORTHERN TANZANIA

Arusha National Park

Forest trails, shimmering crater lakes and the slopes of Mount Meru, all within easy reach of Arusha.

DISCOVER ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

A Wild Beginning Beneath Mount Meru

Arusha National Park is one of Northern Tanzania’s most diverse yet often overlooked destinations. Located close to Arusha city, the park unfolds across the slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, combining montane forest, open grassland, volcanic landscapes and the colourful Momella Lakes within a remarkably compact area.

The park offers a different character from Tanzania’s better-known savannah destinations. Giraffes wander across open clearings, buffalo move through the forest and troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys leap through the canopy. On clear days, views of Mount Meru dominate the landscape, while distant Mount Kilimanjaro can sometimes be seen beyond the park.

Its accessibility makes Arusha National Park an excellent beginning or end to a longer Northern Circuit safari, but it is also rewarding as a destination in its own right, particularly for travellers who want to experience Tanzania beyond a traditional vehicle-based game drive.

THE ARUSHA EXPERIENCE

Beyond the Traditional Game Drive

Walking Safaris

Arusha National Park is one of the Northern Circuit’s excellent destinations for exploring on foot. Accompanied by an armed park ranger, walking safaris offer a completely different perspective, focusing on tracks, plants, smaller wildlife and the experience of moving through the landscape at ground level.

Mount Meru & Volcanic Landscapes

Rising dramatically above the park, Mount Meru shapes much of its scenery. The spectacular Ngurdoto Crater, forested mountain slopes and open highlands reveal the volcanic forces that created this remarkable landscape. The park is also the starting point for multi-day climbs of Mount Meru.

Momella Lakes & Forest Wildlife

The Momella Lakes bring another character entirely, with their varying colours, waterbirds and sweeping mountain backdrop. Elsewhere, forest habitats provide opportunities to encounter black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and bushbuck, while giraffes, zebras, buffalo and warthogs inhabit the more open areas.

WHEN TO GO

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

Jan – Mar

Warm & Green

The beginning of the year generally offers green landscapes and rewarding wildlife viewing. Clear mornings can provide beautiful views of Mount Meru and, when conditions cooperate, distant Mount Kilimanjaro.

Apr – May

Long Rains

The long rains transform the forests and mountain slopes into exceptionally lush landscapes. Visitor numbers are generally lower, although heavier rainfall can affect walking conditions and reduce mountain visibility.

Jun – Oct

Dry Season

Cooler, drier conditions make this an excellent period for game drives, walking safaris and outdoor exploration. Trails are generally easier to navigate and clearer skies can improve views of Mount Meru.

Nov – Dec

Short Rains

The short rains refresh the park after the dry season, bringing renewed greenery and excellent conditions for birdlife. Rain showers are generally interspersed with periods suitable for exploring.

Good to Know

Arusha National Park is not primarily a Big Five destination. Its strength lies in its scenery, primates, giraffes, birdlife and opportunities to explore on foot. Its proximity to Arusha also makes it particularly suitable for a day trip before or after a longer Tanzania safari.