Arusha
National Park
Tanzania's Emerald Gateway
A compact yet diverse park featuring the Ngurdoto Crater, Momella Lakes, and Mount Meru—offering everything from walking safaris to mountain climbing.
Diversity
Forest, Crater, Lakes, Volcano
Feature
Mount Meru (4,566 m)
Activity
Walking Safaris
Location
25 km from Arusha City
A Miniature Tanzania
Montane rainforest, crater wetlands, and alpine peaks—all accessible within a day's drive
Ngurdoto Crater
A 3 km wide volcanic bowl, often called "Little Ngorongoro." Marshy floor is home to buffalo and warthog.
Momella Lakes
Seven alkaline lakes whose colors shift from turquoise to pink; perfect for flamingos and canoeing.
Mount Meru
Tanzania's second highest peak (4,566 m); its crater and ash cone dominate the western skyline.
"Arusha NP is a biosphere reserve offering the complete Northern Tanzania experience in one compact park."
Activities & Wildlife
Diverse adventures from mountain climbing to tranquil canoeing
Core Activities
Walking Safaris
One of few parks allowing on-foot safaris (2–5 h) with armed rangers to Tululusia Waterfall.
Mount Meru Climb
3–4 day trek (Momella Gate → Summit); ideal pre-Kilimanjaro acclimatization.
Canoeing
Tranquil paddling on Small Momella Lake among flamingos and grazing giraffe.
Wildlife & Seasons
Primates & Ungulates
Abundant Black-and-White Colobus, blue monkeys, buffalo, and unique coat-pattern giraffes.
Birding Paradise
> 400 species, including Hartlaub's turaco and crowned eagle.
Seasonal Highlights
Dry Season (Jun–Oct): Clear mountain views. Long Rains (Mar–May): Misty photography.
Logistics & Conservation
Logistics & Tips
- Access: 45 min drive from Arusha city; closest park to Arusha Airport (ARK).
- Permits: TANAPA entry fee (US $59 pp). Meru climb requires separate fees and guide.
- Safety: Walking safaris require armed ranger. Maintain silence near buffalo.
- Photography: Target misty crater dawns and reflections in Momella Lakes.
Conservation & Pairings
- Conservation: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1980); vital wildlife corridor.
- Film History: Setting for 1962 John Wayne film Hatari!
- Pairing 1: Kilimanjaro Trek (use Meru as acclimatization).
- Pairing 2: Tarangire or Manyara for wildlife contrast.
Plan Your Arusha Adventure
Experience Tanzania's most accessible and diverse national park—perfect for day trips or extended stays.
Book Your Safari