Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park

The acrobatic black and white Colobus monkey welcome you as you pass through Arusha's main entrance gate. From the lush green swamps surrounded by thick forest in the Ngurdoto Crater, up through the scenic beauty of the Momela Lakes, each a startlingly different hue, through to the chilly alpine-like tundra on Mount Meru, Arusha is a gem of a park, seldom used by the majority of visitors to Tanzania.

Arusha National Park Facts

  • Size & Location: 137km², 25 km northeast of Arusha town in Northern Tanzania
  • When to visit the park: July - October (Game-Viewing season), June - February (climb Mt. Meru)
  • Climate: Dry in the cooler months with low humidity. Daytime maximum temperatures at 32° C
  • Rainfall: 600mm per annum
  • Altitude: 1500m above sea level

Information On Arusha National Park

Explore the diverse and changing landscapes, hike along scenic mountain and forest trails and view huge masses of wildlife in this quaint and charming park.

There are three major attractions in the park. First is the Ngurdoto Crater, which is sometimes called "mini Ngorongoro." Secondly, there are the Momella lakes, which are shallow alkaline lakes which get their water from underground streams. Finally, there is the spectacular Meru Crater. Mount Meru (14,990 feet) is described as "one of the most rewarding mountains to climb in Africa." Visitors can climb the mountain, or organize walking safaris. The park also provides great views of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru on clear days.

The remains of a large volcano, the Ngurdoto Crater is a steep-sided bowl of lush swamps and riverine forest, which is home to elephant, buffalo, warthog, baboon, reedbuck, Colobus monkeys and duikers. Mosses, ferns, lichens and orchids thrive in the damp atmosphere of the crater, giving way to huge mahogany, olive and date palm trees on the drier crater walls.

The tranquil beauty of the Momela Lakes brings to the park a wide variety of birdlife (Over 380 species) including flamingoes, waterfowl, African pochard, ibis, heron, egrets, colourful turacos and trogons. The rocky crags of Mount Meru sees a large number of birds of prey and you may be lucky enough to spot lammergeyers, a large, rare bird of prey, floating on the updraughts from the crater. Other game includes hippo, giraffe, zebra, antelope, blue monkey, dik dik, reedbuck, klipspringers, leopard, and spotted hyena.

Main Attractions Of Arusha National Park

  • Ngurdoto Crater (little Ngorongoro)
  • Momella lakes
  • Black and white Colobus Monkey
  • Mount Meru (14,990 feet) and the Meru Crater

Where is Arusha National Park located?

The National Park, in a nutshell, lies just to the north of the town of Arusha, with very little separating the tow and the park.

Click here for a Google Map view of where the Park lies in relation to the town of Arusha; Google Maps - Arusha National Park

Tanzania Game Reserves
Safaris In Tanzania
Lodges In Tanzania
Tanzania Showcase Lodges
Travel In Tanzania
Latest Tanzania Blogs
Travel To Tanzania Now
Tanzania Lodge Map
Tanzania Travel Topics

  • 10 Best Lodges in Zanzibar

    Off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar beckons with pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. This archipelago, with turquoise waters and lush landscapes, offers both tranquillity and adventure. Our guide to the 10 Best Lodges in Zanzibar will help you discover the perfect blend of luxury and island charm.

    Each lodge on our list has been carefully selected to ensure an unforgettable stay, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you're yearning for a secluded beach retreat, an exploration of Swahili architecture and heritage, or simply to indulge in culinary delights sourced from the richest local produce, these lodges are poised to exceed your expectations.

  • The Best Tanzania Safari Itinerary

    Embarking on a safari in Tanzania is not just a journey; it's an immersion into one of the world's most vibrant ecosystems, a chance to stand at the crossroads of nature's grandeur and cultural richness. Our blog post titled "Best Tanzania Safari Itinerary" aims to be your compass in navigating this breathtaking adventure.

    From witnessing the majestic "Big Five" in their natural habitat to experiencing the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, Tanzania offers an unrivalled canvas of wildlife and landscapes. But beyond its natural wonders, it's a place where you can connect with age-old traditions and the warm spirit of its people.

  • 10 Must-See attractions in Tanzania

    Tanzania, a country blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable adventures, stands as a beacon for travellers seeking the extraordinary. From the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the historic alleys of Stone Town in Zanzibar, this East African nation offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the soul.

    Our blog post, "10 Must-See Attractions in Tanzania", is your ultimate guide to exploring the very heart of this remarkable country, where every turn reveals something spectacular and every moment spent becomes a cherished memory.

  • Zanzibar Bucket List

    A trip to Zanzibar feels like stepping into a world where time slows down and culture, history, and natural beauty come to life. This enchanting island in the Indian Ocean offers a unique escape, where every moment feels magical, and every corner has a story to tell.

    Our curated "Zanzibar Bucket List" will guide you through this paradise, ensuring you capture the essence of Zanzibar. From the winding alleys of Stone Town to the endless pristine beaches, our list promises adventures that will fill your heart and leave you wanting more.

  • 10 Best Lodges In The Serengeti

    Welcome to our ultimate guide on the 10 best lodges in the Serengeti National Park, where an unforgettable safari experience awaits. This iconic destination, renowned for its sprawling Serengeti plains and the incredible spectacle of the wildebeest migration, offers a plethora of luxurious safari lodges.

    Whether you're dreaming of a romantic escape with a private plunge pool or a family adventure complete with guided bush walks, the Serengeti National Park and its surrounding game reserves promise an authentic African safari experience like no other.

  • Best Eco Friendly Lodges in Tanzania

    Tanzania, with its breathtaking landscapes, majestic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, is leading in sustainable tourism. The trend towards eco-friendly safari travel has inspired many lodges to adopt practices that preserve its pristine environments for future generations.

    In our latest blog post, we explore some of the best eco-friendly lodges in Tanzania. These exceptional accommodations not only offer you a luxurious stay amidst nature but also contribute positively to local communities and conservation efforts.

  • Tanzania Honeymoon

    Discover the ultimate honeymoon destination: Tanzania. With its wildlife safaris, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Tanzania offers the perfect blend of romance and excitement. From exploring the Serengeti to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, create unforgettable memories in this East African gem.

    With unique activities and luxurious accommodations, Tanzania is the perfect choice for your honeymoon.

  • What To Wear On Safari Tanzania

    Embarking on an exciting Tanzania safari adventure requires careful consideration of what to wear to ensure comfort and appropriateness. This comprehensive guide provides essential tips and recommendations for selecting the perfect safari clothing.

    Remember, while on your Tanzanian safari, it is important to stay protected and respect the wildlife and their natural environment. Follow the guidance of your knowledgeable guides and enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Tanzania's wildlife.