Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. It sits just a short drive from Arusha town and Kilimanjaro International Airport. Though small in size, the park packs in more variety than almost anywhere else in the country. In a single day you can move from rainforest to open savannah to a chain of shining lakes.

A Park of Three Worlds

Few parks change so much in so little space. The lush Ngurdoto Crater is often called “Little Ngorongoro” for its steep green walls and grassy floor. The Momella Lakes glow in shades of blue and green, colored by algae, and draw thousands of flamingos. Above it all rises Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters.

Wildlife and Birds

This is giraffe country, and you will see plenty of them. Look also for zebras, buffaloes, warthogs and bushbuck. The forest is home to the black-and-white colobus monkey, a rare treat found in few other northern parks. Elephants and leopards live here too, though they are shy. Birdlife is superb, with over 400 species recorded around the lakes and forest.

Things to Do

Arusha National Park is special because you can explore on foot. Guided walking safaris let you get close to giraffes and zebras with an armed ranger. Canoe trips on the Momella Lakes offer a gentle, different view of the wildlife. Keen hikers can climb Mount Meru over three or four days, a fine warm-up for Kilimanjaro.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open all year. The dry season, from June to October, brings the clearest views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro beyond. The green season adds baby animals and lush scenery. It is the perfect first or last stop on a northern safari.

Where to Stay

Most travelers visit Arusha National Park on a day trip from Arusha town. For your overnight, our boutique guesthouse Kahawa House offers an elegant, coffee-themed base close to the park and both airports. It is the perfect place to rest on arrival or before your flight into the Serengeti.