Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible parks, conveniently located just a short drive between Arusha and Moshi. This proximity makes it a superb day trip destination and an excellent start or conclusion to any Tanzanian itinerary.
This park boasts a diverse range of landscapes, including expansive grasslands, lush rainforests, acacia woodlands, and alpine flora on the upper slopes of Mount Meru. Covering slightly over 200 square miles, the park is renowned for its high density of species and is home to the world’s largest giraffe population, making it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
The park’s abundant wildlife includes Cape buffalo, elephants, hippos, and zebras, with occasional sightings of lions and leopards. Game drives offer the perfect opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat. Additionally, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s few parks where walking safaris are permitted. This offers a unique and immersive way to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife up close.
Popular activities in Arusha National Park include game drives, kayaking, trekking up Mount Meru, and walking safaris. Walking safaris provide an exciting alternative to traditional vehicle-based safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and gain a deeper connection with the environment. National park authorities have recently extended walking safari permissions to other parks in the northern safari circuit, including Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, and some fringe concessions on the edge of Serengeti National Park.
For those seeking adventure and a closer look at Tanzania’s natural wonders, Arusha National Park is a must visit destination. Its varied landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique activities make it a highlight of any Tanzanian safari adventure. Whether you’re enjoying a game drive, kayaking through the scenic waterways, or hiking the majestic Mount Meru, Arusha National Park offers unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views at every turn.
Safari in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, is a hidden gem that offers a rich and diverse safari experience. Due to its proximity to Arusha and Moshi, and its modest size, this park is perfect for a day trip or as an addition to longer safari itineraries in northern Tanzania, such as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.
Despite often being overlooked by visitors concerned about wildlife sightings, Arusha National Park boasts an impressive array of flora and fauna, alongside stunning and varied landscapes. The park’s unique beauty and biodiversity make it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts.
During a wildlife drive in the park’s “little Serengeti,” you can expect to see peaceful herds of buffaloes, shy bushbucks on the forest’s edge, as well as warthogs and zebras. As you venture towards the Ngurdoto Crater, you’ll find yourself immersed in a lush rainforest where the agile black-and-white colobus monkeys and the elegant blue monkeys (mitis monkeys) can be spotted. The Ngurdoto Crater, a smaller yet captivating version of the Ngorongoro Crater, spans about 3 kilometers in diameter. If you’re fortunate, you might even see buffaloes grazing in the crater’s wetlands.
Arusha National Park is also an excellent choice for a quick safari after hiking the challenging slopes of Mount Meru. Its diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife make it a perfect stand-alone adventure or a complement to your Tanzanian safari experience.
How to Get to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is easily accessible and offers various transportation options for visitors. By air, the park is conveniently reachable from Kilimanjaro International Airport (RO), which is about 60 kilometers away. The drive from the airport to the park takes approximately one hour in a safari vehicle. For those traveling from Arusha Airport (ARK), the journey is even shorter, taking about 40 minutes. Both airports provide a gateway to the park, with many safari companies offering pickup services directly from the airport to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
This Park is well-connected by road, making it accessible for visitors traveling by public or private transportation. There are daily buses from Arusha town and the Ngare Nanyuki village to the Ngongongare Gate, one of the main entrances to the park. This option is budget-friendly and offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle as you travel alongside residents.
Alternatively, hiring a taxi from Arusha to the park is another convenient option, especially for those who prefer a direct and comfortable ride. Taxis are readily available in Arusha
town, and many drivers are familiar with the route to the park. Many visitors choose to book a safari tour, which typically includes transportation in a specialized safari vehicle. These vehicles are designed for comfort and optimal wildlife viewing, and they come with knowledgeable guides who can enhance your experience with insights about the park’s flora and fauna.
Why Choose Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible parks, conveniently located just a short drive between Arusha and Moshi. This proximity makes it a superb day trip destination and an excellent start or conclusion to any Tanzanian itinerary.
This Park boasts a diverse range of landscapes, including expansive grasslands, lush rainforests, acacia woodlands, and alpine flora on the upper slopes of Mount Meru.
Covering slightly over 200 square miles, the park is renowned for its high density of species and is home to the world’s largest giraffe population, making it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Walking Safaris in Arusha National Park
The park’s abundant wildlife includes Cape buffalo, elephants, hippos, and zebras, with occasional sightings of lions and leopards. Game drives offer the perfect opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat. Additionally, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s few parks where walking safaris are permitted. This offers a unique and immersive way to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife up close.
Popular activities in Arusha NP include game drives, kayaking, trekking up Mount Meru, and walking safaris. Walking safaris provide an exciting alternative to traditional vehicle-based safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and gain a deeper connection with the environment. National park authorities have recently extended walking safari permissions to other parks in the northern safari circuit, including Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, and some fringe concessions on the edge of Serengeti National Park.