Arusha National Park

The Serengeti: sanctuary of the Big Five, crowned Africa’s Leading National Park 2025, and the backdrop for the Great Wildebeest Migration as well as numerous films. Experience this natural wonder on your safari and carry unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

Home National Parks Tanzania Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a small yet captivating park situated in northeastern Tanzania, close to the city of Arusha, offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. This picturesque park is rich in both wildlife and plant species and boasts a variety of landscapes. From lakes, waterfalls, and swamps to volcanoes, mountains, and tropical rainforests, it provides an ideal habitat for numerous animals. Its wetlands, forests, and lakes are home to many striking birds, such as the silvery-cheeked hornbill and thousands of pink flamingos. Additionally, it is the only area in northern Tanzania where the black-and-white colobus monkey can be easily observed.

Mount Meru

Mount Meru rises within Arusha National Park and is Tanzania’s second-highest peak, standing at 4,566 meters (14,990 feet). This dormant volcano presents a beautiful yet demanding climb. From the summit, the sweeping views of the park’s plains, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Momella Lakes are truly breathtaking. A day hike on Mount Meru provides a different perspective and a refreshing experience. Tanzania Wildlife Voyages also arranges guided climbs to the summit…

Canoe Adventures and Walking Safaris

One of the most popular safari experiences in Arusha National Park is a canoe or walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger. The Momella Lakes in the northeast, for instance, host a wide range of wildlife. Set in an open landscape, they are home to hippos and numerous bird species. Many bucks and buffalo can also be spotted around the lakes. This offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife up close, from a perspective very different from that of a safari vehicle—truly a memorable adventure!

Arusha town is approximately 45 minutes from Arusha National Park, while Mount Kilimanjaro lies around 50 km (31 miles) away.

Details and Insights

Arusha National Park is famous for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mount Meru, lush swamps, sparkling lakes, cascading waterfalls, and scenic craters! This stunning park offers a rich variety of landscapes and wildlife.

Frequently Seen Wildlife

Buffalo
Giraffe
Zebra
More than 400 bird species, including flamingos
Monkeys: black-and-white colobus, vervet, blue, baboons
Hippo
Waterbuck
Bushbuck
Warthog

Arusha Insights:

Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest peak, situated in the heart of Arusha National Park.
Momella Lakes – a collection of seven shallow, alkaline lakes.
Ngurdoto Crater – a swampy crater teeming with diverse wildlife.
Breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Scenic volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests.
A giant fig tree arches over the road, large enough for a car to pass beneath.

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