Arusha National Park

Where Mount Meru, Forests & Wildlife Meet Adventure

Best Time

June – February

Region

Northern Tanzania

Area

552 km²

Safari Style

Private Safaris

Overview

Discover Arusha National Park

Located just a short drive from Arusha City, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse protected areas. Although smaller than many of the country’s famous safari parks, it offers an exceptional variety of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal introduction to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit.

The park stretches from the lush lower slopes of Mount Meru to the sparkling Momella Lakes and the dense montane forests of Ngurdoto Crater. Each ecosystem supports its own unique wildlife, creating an unforgettable safari destination where every game drive reveals something different.

Wildlife & Landscape

Arusha National Park is home to giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, waterbucks, bushbucks, hippos, colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and over 400 recorded bird species. While lions are absent, the park offers excellent opportunities to enjoy walking safaris, canoeing, and breathtaking views of both Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

Why Visit ?

Perfect for day trips, short safaris, and nature lovers, Arusha National Park combines wildlife, spectacular scenery, and unique activities that cannot be experienced in most other Tanzanian national parks. It is an excellent destination before or after a longer Northern Circuit safari.

Highlights

Scenic Views of Mount Meru
Ngurdoto Crater
Momella Lakes
Canoeing Safari Experience
Walking Safaris with Rangers
Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys

Things to do

Game Drives
Walking Safari
Canoeing on Momella Lakes
Bird Watching
Wildlife Photography
Visit Ngurdoto Crater

Best Time to Visit

JAN – FEB

Warm weather, excellent wildlife viewing, and ideal conditions for canoeing, photography, and exploring Mount Meru's scenic foothills.

MAR – MAY

The green season transforms the park into a lush paradise with vibrant forests, abundant birdlife, and spectacular scenery, making it perfect for nature lovers.

JUN – OCT

The dry season provides outstanding visibility, pleasant temperatures, and excellent opportunities for walking safaris, game drives, and panoramic views of Mount Meru and, on clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro.

NOV – DEC

Short rains refresh the landscape, attracting migratory birds and creating beautiful green surroundings while maintaining rewarding wildlife encounters.

Getting There

Arusha National Park is the most accessible national park in Tanzania, located just 35 kilometers (22 miles) northeast of Arusha City. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, making it an ideal destination for day trips, short wildlife excursions, or as the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit.

Its close proximity to Kilimanjaro International Airport and Arusha Airport allows visitors to begin their safari almost immediately after arrival. The park is also commonly combined with Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park for a complete Northern Tanzania safari experience.

Whether traveling by private safari vehicle or as part of a tailor-made itinerary, Lowen Safaris provides comfortable transportation, professional guides, and seamless travel arrangements, ensuring your visit to Arusha National Park is both convenient and memorable.

On the Map

Your Safari in Pictures

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

Create Your Dream Serengeti Safari

Our Tanzania safari specialists will help you design the perfect itinerary based on your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, and budget.