Arusha National Park

Tanzania's Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the shadow of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a captivating destination often overlooked on the classic northern Tanzania safari circuit. While it may not boast the massive herds of the Serengeti or the Big Five in the same abundance as the Ngorongoro Crater, this small but diverse park offers a unique and intimate safari experience that is second to none. Its proximity to Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport makes it the perfect day trip, or a spectacular starting point for a longer Tanzanian adventure.

Arusha National Park is a jewel of diverse habitats, all packed into a compact area. The park's stunning scenery is defined by three key features:

  1. Mount Meru: The park's centerpiece is this magnificent stratovolcano, Tanzania's second-highest peak at 4,562 meters. Often considered a "warm-up" for Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a challenging and rewarding trek with breathtaking views, including a glimpse of its famous neighbor.
  2. The Momella Lakes: A series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes in the park's northeast, the Momella Lakes are a paradise for birdwatchers. Their waters are often colored by algae and teeming with a huge variety of resident and migratory birds, including thousands of vibrant flamingos.
  3. Ngurdoto Crater: Known as "Little Ngorongoro," this volcanic caldera is a lush, swampy basin surrounded by steep, forested cliffs. The crater floor is a haven for buffalos, warthogs, and a variety of antelopes, which can be viewed from scenic lookout points along the rim.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arusha National Park

What is the best time of year to visit Arusha National Park?

The park is beautiful and can be visited year-round. However, the best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals, and they often gather around water sources. For birdwatching, the wet season (November to May) is spectacular, as migratory birds arrive.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Arusha National Park is famous for its large population of giraffes. You'll also likely see zebras, Cape buffalos, warthogs, waterbucks, and a variety of monkeys, including the beautiful black-and-white colobus monkey and blue monkeys. While lions are rare, you might spot leopards and hyenas, though they are shy and less common. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 400 species.

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