Arusha National Park

Tanzania’s Hidden Gem of Adventure, Wildlife & Natural BeautyArusha National Park

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most underrated treasures—small in size but incredibly rich in wildlife, scenery, adventure, and diverse ecosystems. Found in northern Tanzania, just a short drive from the tourism hub of Arusha City, this stunning park offers visitors a chance to explore untouched nature, dramatic landscapes, and wildlife encounters without the heavy crowds often found in larger parks like the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.

It is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and immersive safari experience, and also a wonderful place for climbers to acclimatize before taking on Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru.

Where Is Arusha National Park Found?

Arusha National Park is located in northern Tanzania, approximately 25 km east of Arusha City and close to the Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). Its convenient location makes it one of the easiest parks to access for day trips, short safari experiences, or pre-Kilimanjaro excursions.

The park sits on the slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, offering breathtaking views, lush forests, sparkling craters, and expansive savannahs.

What Makes Arusha National Park Famous?

Unlike other parks in Tanzania, Arusha National Park is famous for its incredible ecological diversity packed into a relatively small area. Within a single day, travelers can experience:

• Misty rainforests
• Open savannah plains
• Towering volcanic mountains
• Beautiful lakes and swamps
• Ancient volcanic craters

The park is also renowned for being one of the few places in Tanzania where walking safaris and canoeing safaris are allowed, making it a true adventure destination.

Other features that make the park famous include:

1. Mount Meru

Standing at 4,566 meters, Mount Meru is a breathtaking volcanic mountain known for its challenging climb, incredible scenery, and less crowded trekking experience compared to Mount Kilimanjaro.

2. The Momella Lakes

These alkaline lakes, each with a different shade of blue or green, attract thousands of flamingos, giving the lakes a pink glow during certain seasons.

3. Ngurdoto Crater

Often called the “Little Ngorongoro,” Ngurdoto Crater is filled with marshes, thick rainforest, and herds of buffalo.

4. Lush Forests Full of Colobus Monkeys

The tropical forests in the park are home to the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys, known for their long white tails and graceful jumping.

What Makes Arusha National Park Different From Other Parks?

Arusha National Park stands out because of its activities and scenic diversity. Here’s what makes it unique:

✔ Only national park in northern Tanzania offering walking safaris with armed rangers

Walk right next to giraffes, buffalos, and zebras—something you cannot do in Serengeti or Tarangire.

✔ Home to Mount Meru

Perfect for trekking lovers and a great warm-up hike before conquering Kilimanjaro.

✔ Canoeing safaris on Momella Lakes

A rare opportunity to paddle quietly on the lakes while watching birds, hippos, and stunning reflections of Mount Meru.

✔ Incredible forest and crater landscapes

It feels like stepping into another world—misty, green, full of life.

✔ Less crowded and peaceful

Ideal for travelers who want a more intimate nature experience.

✔ Close to Arusha City and Kilimanjaro International Airport

Makes it perfect for day trips or short excursions before or after a long safari.

How Large Is Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park covers 552 square kilometers, making it one of the smaller parks in Tanzania—but don’t let the size fool you. The landscapes change dramatically from one zone to another, offering the experience of three parks in one:

• Ngurdoto Crater (east side)
• Mount Meru forest slopes (central)
• Momella Lakes (north)

Its compact size actually allows visitors to explore more in a shorter amount of time.

What Animals Are Found in Arusha National Park?

Arusha National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife. Some of the commonly seen animals include:

• Giraffes (lots of them!)
• Buffalos
• Zebras
• Warthogs
• Waterbucks
• Bushbucks
• Blue monkeys
• Vervet monkeys
• Black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Hippos (around the Momella Lakes)
• Flamingos

Although the park has leopards and hyenas, they are rarely seen. There are no lions in the park, which makes it ideal for walking safaris.

The birdlife is also spectacular, with more than 400 bird species, including:

• Crowned cranes
• Egyptian geese
• Turacos
• Hornbills
• Bee-eaters

And of course, massive flocks of flamingos during peak seasons.

What Activities Can Be Done in Arusha National Park?

Arusha National Park offers more unique activities than many other parks in Tanzania. Visitors can enjoy:

1. Walking Safaris

Guided by an armed ranger, allowing close encounters with wildlife and nature.
A highlight for many travelers.

2. Mount Meru Trekking

A multi-day climb with breathtaking scenery.
Great for acclimatization before climbing Kilimanjaro.

3. Canoeing on Momella Lakes

A peaceful and photogenic adventure with flamingos and hippos.

4. Game Drives

Explore Ngurdoto Crater, forest roads, and open plains.

5. Birdwatching

Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

6. Forest Tours

Experience lush, cool rainforests filled with monkeys.

7. Visit to Ngurdoto Crater

An unforgettable scenic highlight.

8. Cultural Experiences

Visit nearby villages to learn about local life.

Start Your Arusha National Park Adventure With Devale Adventures

If you’re dreaming of a place where scenic beauty, wildlife, and authentic Tanzania experiences come together, then Arusha National Park is exactly where your journey should begin. Whether you want to walk among giraffes, paddle across flamingo-filled lakes, hike the slopes of Mount Meru, or enjoy a peaceful day away from the city, this park offers something unforgettable for every traveler.

At Devale Adventures, we turn these moments into lifelong memories. Our experienced guides, deep local knowledge, and passion for Tanzania ensure that every guest connects deeply with nature and culture—not just as a tourist, but as a part of the story.

✨ Let us plan your perfect Arusha National Park safari—crafted with care, heart, and expertise.
📞 Contact Devale Adventures today customize your itinerary, or get free travel advice for your upcoming Tanzania safari.