Overview

Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru and just a short drive from the safari hub of Arusha town, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and underrated treasures. Though smaller than many of the country’s major parks, it offers a remarkable diversity of scenery — from lush montane forests and sparkling lakes to open grasslands and volcanic peaks.

The park spans about 137 square kilometers and is home to a variety of ecosystems, including the Ngurdoto Crater, the Momella Lakes, and the forested slopes of Mount Meru. You won’t find the “Big Five” all in one place here, but you will see giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, bushbucks, and playful black-and-white colobus monkeys — all set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.

Arusha National Park can be visited all year round. June to October is ideal for clear skies and hiking, while November to May brings lush greenery and vibrant birdlife, including flocks of flamingos on the Momella Lakes.

What to Expect

Arusha National Park offers a peaceful and scenic safari experience — the perfect start or end to a northern Tanzania adventure. Expect tranquil landscapes, gentle wildlife encounters, and a feeling of untouched wilderness without the crowds.

The park’s variety of habitats means every moment feels new: a quiet forest alive with colobus monkeys, open savannas dotted with giraffes, and sparkling lakes reflecting the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. On clear mornings, the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro provides a spectacular backdrop to your photos.

It’s also the only park in northern Tanzania where you can walk freely among wildlife with an armed ranger, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers who love immersive, ground-level experiences.

Activities & Add-ons

Arusha National Park offers some of the most diverse activities in Tanzania. Enjoy classic game drives, guided walking safaris, or a canoeing adventure on the Momella Lakes — where you might paddle past grazing buffalo and watch flamingos take flight.

For hikers, a trek up Mount Meru (4,566m) is a fantastic option. Often considered a warm-up for Kilimanjaro, the Meru climb offers lush forests, scenic ridges, and incredible views across the plains. You can also combine your visit with a cultural stop in Arusha town or at nearby coffee farms and villages.