Located just 45 minutes from Arusha City, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic and geographically diverse safari destinations. Covering 552 square kilometers, the park offers a unique combination of wildlife, volcanic landscapes, montane forests, crater views, alkaline lakes, and mountain adventures, making it an ideal addition to any Northern Tanzania safari itinerary.
Unlike the larger parks of the northern circuit, Arusha National Park provides opportunities for walking safaris, canoeing excursions, and Mount Meru trekking, allowing visitors to experience Tanzania’s wilderness from a completely different perspective. Whether you are beginning your safari journey, preparing for a Mount Kilimanjaro climb, or looking for a memorable day trip from Arusha, this remarkable park delivers exceptional experiences in a compact setting.
Arusha National Park stands out as one of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse protected areas. Within a single day, visitors can explore lush rainforests, open savannahs, volcanic craters, and sparkling lakes while encountering an impressive variety of wildlife.
Spectacular views of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain
The beautiful Momella Lakes, famous for flamingos and waterbirds
Ngurdoto Crater, often called "Little Ngorongoro"
Guided walking safaris with armed park rangers
Canoeing safaris on the Momella Lakes
Excellent birdwatching with over 400 recorded species
One of the highest concentrations of giraffes in Tanzania
Exceptional opportunities to see black-and-white colobus monkeys
Convenient location near Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport
Although Arusha National Park is not known for the Big Five, it offers outstanding wildlife viewing and some of the best opportunities in Tanzania to observe animals up close.
Giraffe
African Buffalo
Zebra
Waterbuck
Bushbuck
Warthog
Blue Monkey
Black-and-White Colobus Monkey
Olive Baboon
Dik-dik
The park's low predator density creates ideal conditions for walking safaris and photography.
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania's premier birdwatching destinations. More than 400 bird species have been recorded throughout the park.
Notable species include:
Lesser Flamingo
Greater Flamingo
African Fish Eagle
Crowned Eagle
Grey Heron
Sacred Ibis
Kingfishers
Cormorants
Egyptian Geese
The Momella Lakes attract large numbers of migratory and resident waterbirds throughout the year.
Towering above the park at 4,566 meters, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and one of East Africa’s most rewarding trekking destinations.
The mountain offers:
3 to 4-day guided treks
Spectacular volcanic scenery
Diverse vegetation zones
Wildlife encounters during the ascent
Excellent acclimatization before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
The summit rewards climbers with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley, and the surrounding plains.
The Momella Lakes are a series of seven shallow alkaline lakes that form one of the most beautiful landscapes in Northern Tanzania.
Each lake has a unique mineral composition, creating varying shades of green, blue, and pink. Large flocks of flamingos often gather along the shores, providing excellent photography opportunities.
The lakes are also home to:
Hippos
Waterbirds
Migratory species
Aquatic vegetation
Canoeing safaris are available on selected lakes, offering a peaceful and unique way to explore the park.
Known as "Little Ngorongoro," Ngurdoto Crater is a spectacular volcanic caldera located within the park.
Its lush crater floor supports a variety of wildlife, including:
Buffalo
Warthog
Waterbuck
Baboons
Visitors can enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking the crater and surrounding forests, making it one of the park’s most impressive natural attractions.
Explore diverse habitats and encounter wildlife while enjoying stunning views of Mount Meru and the Momella Lakes.
One of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can safely walk among wildlife under the supervision of armed TANAPA rangers.
Glide across the Momella Lakes and enjoy close encounters with waterbirds, flamingos, and hippos.
Embark on a multi-day trek to the summit of Tanzania’s second-highest peak.
Discover more than 400 bird species in forests, wetlands, lakes, and open grasslands.
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round.
Excellent wildlife viewing
Clear mountain views
Ideal trekking conditions
Comfortable temperatures
Lush landscapes
Fewer visitors
Outstanding birdwatching
Beautiful photography opportunities
Park fees are regulated by TANAPA and are subject to change.
| Category | High Season | Low Season |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Adult (16+) | USD 50 | USD 45 |
| Non-Resident Child (5–15) | USD 15 | USD 15 |
| Expatriate/Resident Adult | USD 25 | USD 22.50 |
| East African Citizen | TZS 10,000 | TZS 10,000 |
Additional fees may apply for activities such as walking safaris, canoeing, camping, and Mount Meru climbing.
Perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience wildlife, crater viewpoints, and the Momella Lakes.
The most popular option, combining game drives, walking safaris, birdwatching, and scenic exploration.
Ideal for visitors climbing Mount Meru or combining the park with other Northern Tanzania safari destinations.
Arusha National Park is an excellent addition to:
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro
Materuni Waterfalls
Chemka Hot Springs
Its proximity to Arusha makes it a convenient first or final stop on any Tanzania safari itinerary.
Whether you are seeking wildlife encounters, mountain adventures, birdwatching opportunities, or a unique walking safari experience, Arusha National Park offers an unforgettable introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Contact our safari specialists today to create a customized Arusha National Park tour tailored to your interests, schedule, and budget.
