Quick Facts
About Arusha National Park
Peak Time
June - October
Best Time To Go
Year-Round
Famous For
Mount Meru and beautiful Momella Lakes
Home Of
Diverse birdlife and unique landscapes
Overview
Arusha National Park is a popular destination for day-trip visitors departing from Arusha for the renowned northern circuit safaris. This small yet diverse park encompasses the slopes, summit, and ash cone of Mount Meru, the serene Momela Lakes, the Ngurdoto Crater, and the lush highland forests that cover its lower elevations. Game drives around the Momela Lakes are conducted at a leisurely pace, providing a tranquil experience, while the forested areas often reward visitors with sightings of rare colobus monkeys playing in the treetops.
Wildlife
Mount Meru offers a rewarding trek for adventurers, with a three-day hike to the crater’s summit providing a quieter, and for some, a more challenging alternative to the famed Mount Kilimanjaro. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park’s lower slopes feature scenic trails leading to rivers and waterfalls, perfect for day hikes. The ancient fig tree forests, crystal-clear mountain streams, and the opportunity to encounter colobus monkeys add to the unique charm of Arusha National Park, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Mount Meru
Climbing Mount Meru is one of the key attractions of Arusha National Park, with the Momella Route serving as the primary trail for the ascent. Starting at the park’s eastern gate, this route offers climbers a scenic and diverse trekking experience.
The ideal time for climbing is from June to February, with the clearest views of Mount Kilimanjaro typically occurring between December and February. The Momella Route generally takes four days to complete, covering a distance of 11.8 miles (19 km). Alternatively, a shorter, more direct route spans 8.7 miles (14 km) and can be completed in three days.
The longer route is favored for its more gradual ascent, providing better acclimatization and a slightly less demanding trek. Along the journey, climbers pass through a variety of landscapes, including montane forest, moorland, and alpine desert, before descending back through the same scenic terrain.
Activities
Arusha National Park offers a variety of activities to help visitors fully experience its natural beauty:
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife, from zebras in the savannah to monkeys in the forest.
- Canoeing on Momella Lakes: Paddle through the serene waters of the lakes, getting up close to flamingos, hippos, and other birdlife.
- Mount Meru Trekking: Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Meru and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
- Walking Safaris: Accompanied by a ranger, discover the park’s rich flora and fauna on foot, with opportunities to observe wildlife at a closer range.
- Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, Arusha is a bird lover’s paradise. Bring your binoculars to spot the colorful birdlife around the Momella Lakes and forested areas.
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Best Time to Visit
The prime time to explore Arusha National Park is between June and October, the dry season, when animals are simpler to see. That said, you can visit any time of year. The green season, from November to May, is awesome for birdwatching since migrating birds show up, and the scenery turns lush and colorful after the rain.
Accommodation
Arusha National Park has plenty of places to stay, both inside and right outside its borders. You can pick a fancy lodge with Mount Meru views, a simple tented camp surrounded by nature, or a cozy hotel in nearby Arusha city—there’s an option for everyone. Lots of these spots are close to the park’s entrance, making it simple to head out on a safari without delay.
Why Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a fantastic spot for anyone wanting both excitement and peace. You can hike Mount Meru, paddle a canoe on the Momella Lakes, or enjoy a range of special activities in this small yet stunningly beautiful park. It’s close to Arusha city, so it’s perfect for a quick day trip or as an extra stop on a bigger Tanzanian safari adventure. Whether you love nature, birds, or just crave some thrills, this park has something amazing for you to remember.