Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park in Tanzania offers a distinctive experience that contrasts with the country’s larger savannah reserves. The park is defined by three diverse geological features: the towering Mount Meru, the wildlife-rich Ngurdoto Crater, and the colorful Momella Lakes. This compact area allows you to experience vastly different landscapes, from montane forests and alpine deserts to swamp-filled craters and alkaline lakes, all within a single visit.

While wildlife is abundant, the experience here is unique. Arusha National Park is known for its healthy populations of giraffes and forest primates, such as the acrobatic black-and-white colobus and blue monkeys, which are harder to see on the standard northern safari circuit. Although it lacks lions, you may spot buffalo, zebra, elephants, and warthogs. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with about 400 species recorded, including flocks of flamingos on the Momella Lakes.

Accessible from the city of Arusha and the international airport, the park supports a wide range of activities beyond traditional game drives. These include guided walking safaris, canoeing on the Momella Lakes, and multi-day treks to the summit of Mount Meru—a climb often used as acclimatization for Mount Kilimanjaro. This combination of accessibility, varied landscapes, and unique activities makes Arusha National Park a compelling destination for a first or final stop on a Tanzanian adventure.