ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK
Overview
Nestled in northern Tanzania, Arusha National Park captivates with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. Established in 1960, this gem encompasses lush forests, rolling hills, and the iconic Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak. Its unique blend of ecosystems provides a habitat for an array of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, and the elusive colobus monkeys. Visitors can embark on thrilling game drives, explore volcanic craters, and marvel at the picturesque Momella Lakes, making Arusha National Park a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.
Arusha National Park is a 45-minute drive from Arusha, Tanzania's northern circuit safari starting point. The best seasons for visiting are June to September and December to March, with wildlife spotting and activities being most enjoyable during these times.
The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February, when wildlife congregates around water sources. These months offer optimal conditions for game viewing and hiking, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, enhancing the overall safari experience.
Size
212 square mile
Weather
Equatorial Climate Prevails
Wildlife
Home to Diverse Wildlife
Best Time to Visit
June to October
Flora and Fauna
Diverse Ecosystems Thrive
Conservation
Commitment to Preservation
Arusha National Park is the Park of multi activities; These activities includes game drives, short walking safari, long walking safari. Arusha National Park is a park of multi tourists activities; These includes Game Drives (GD), Short Walking Safaris (SWS), Long Walking Safaris (LWS), Canoeing, Mountain Climbing (MC), Horse Riding (HR) and Cycling.
YOU'LL NEVER FORGET
Best Arusha Lodges & Camps
There are various accommodation options near the Arusha City, offering a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. The accommodations are situated on or near the crater rim, providing convenient access to the crater for wildlife viewing. Here are some types of accommodation options:
The best way to get to Arusha National Park is by driving, it is only a 45-minute drive from Arusha, the beginning point of any northern circuit safari in Tanzania. The best time to visit Arusha National Park is from June to September and December to March during the dry seasons. Wildlife spotting and other activities are the most enjoyable at this time of year, and it lines up with The Great Migration if you plan on doing the Serengeti too. March and April, and October to December are the wet seasons, and it is advised to avoid these months, as rain can ruin or lead to cancellations of planned activities.
The Kili Villa is a luxurious retreat situated on a golf and wildlife estate close to the park and only 30 mins from Arusha International Airport.
On offer are three exclusive villas, as well as individual luxury rooms.
Each Villa is distinctively decorated to showcase the best local African design and craftsmanship combined with colonial-style furniture
This lodge offers horse riding, Canoeing and Game drives.
Alternatively, The River Trees Country Inn is a charming country estate that was once an old coffee farm. It still maintains the nostalgic air of a well-loved homestead.
Sprawling across ten acres on Mount Meru's sloping foothills, beautifully rustic cottages are dotted along the river and nestled under tall trees. Lush lawns and birdsong add to the tranquil surroundings.
The restaurant concocts tasty meals of garden-fresh ingredients, old family recipes, and oven-fired pizzas. Delicious candle-lit dinners are served by the warmth of the fireplace or under the stars on the patio.
Arusha National Park can generally be explored in a day and is a great stand-alone adventure due to its proximity to Arusha and Moshi, and thanks to its small size.
It also pairs well with longer itineraries on the northern safari circuit, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.
If you're looking to squeeze in a short safari after climbing the steep slopes of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is also ideal as it lies at the foot of it.
Despite the small size of the park, common animals include giraffe, Cape buffalo, zebra, warthog, the black-and-white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, flamingo, elephant, bushbuck and many other African animals.
