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Arusha National Park

Northern Safari Circuit

Arusha National Park

A scenic wilderness near Arusha city featuring Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, lush forests, and unique walking and canoe safari experiences.

Overview

A landscape without equal

Arusha National Park covers approximately 552 km² and is one of Tanzania's most accessible national parks, located just a short drive from Arusha city. Established in 1960, the park protects a diverse landscape dominated by Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest mountain at 4,566 meters. The park contains three major ecological areas: the rugged Mount Meru volcanic landscape, the Ngurdoto Crater, and the beautiful Momella Lakes. Unlike many Tanzanian parks, Arusha National Park offers unique activities such as guided walking safaris, canoeing, and mountain trekking. Its varied habitats include montane forests, alpine landscapes, savanna, and wetlands that support a rich variety of wildlife, including large giraffe populations, African buffalo, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and abundant birdlife.

Wildlife Highlights

  • Black-and-white Colobus Monkey
  • Blue Monkey
  • African Elephant (rare sightings)
  • African Buffalo
  • Giraffe
  • Leopard
  • Spotted Hyena
  • Zebra
  • Warthog
  • Bushbuck
  • Waterbuck
  • Common Duiker
  • Baboons
  • Flamingos
  • African Fish Eagle
  • Hartlaub's Turaco
  • Secretary Bird
  • Over 400 bird species

Activities

  • Game drives
  • Guided walking safaris
  • Canoeing on Momella Lakes
  • Mount Meru trekking
  • Bird watching
  • Wildlife photography
  • Nature walks
  • Picnic experiences
  • Cultural visits around Arusha
  • Day trips from Arusha city
Best Time to Visit
Open year-round. June–October provides excellent weather for wildlife viewing, walking safaris, and Mount Meru climbing. November–May offers lush green landscapes, fewer visitors, and excellent birdwatching, especially around the Momella Lakes.
Photography
Arusha National Park offers exceptional landscape photography, including giraffes walking beneath Mount Meru, flamingos reflecting on the Momella Lakes, misty montane forests, black-and-white colobus monkeys among ancient trees, and dramatic views of Mount Meru's volcanic slopes. On clear mornings, Mount Kilimanjaro can sometimes be photographed in the distance from selected viewpoints.

Gallery

Explore Arusha National Park

A visual journey through the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Arusha National Park

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Arusha National Park — Captivating views from the heart of Africa

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