Arusha National Park
Tanzania is globally renowned for its iconic safari destinations like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Yet, nestled at the base of the towering Mount Meru in northern Tanzania is a smaller, lesser-known gem—Arusha National Park. Though compact, covering about 137 square kilometers, this park is packed with an array of diverse landscapes, wildlife, and experiences, making it an ideal stop for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.
A Snapshot of Arusha National Park
Located just 25 kilometers east of the city of Arusha, Arusha National Park is the closest national park to the region’s major airport (Kilimanjaro International Airport). Despite its modest size compared to Tanzania’s other national parks, Arusha National Park boasts an impressive range of ecosystems, from montane forests and open grasslands to the striking volcanic landscapes of Mount Meru. Due to its proximity to Arusha, it’s a perfect destination for day trips, though many visitors find that the park’s beauty and tranquility encourage them to extend their stay. The park is an excellent introduction to Tanzania’s natural world, particularly for those beginning their safari journey in the country.
Attractions in Arusha National Park
While Arusha National Park lacks the large game concentrations of the Serengeti, it is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, its variety of habitats, and a rich diversity of smaller wildlife species. Here are some of the key attractions:
Mount Meru
The star attraction of Arusha National Park is Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Meru is still a challenging and rewarding climb in its own right. The slopes of Mount Meru are covered in dense forests, home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and colorful birds. The trek up Mount Meru provides breathtaking views, especially of Kilimanjaro in the distance. The summit also offers one of the best vantage points for watching the sunrise over Kilimanjaro.
Momella Lakes
A series of shallow alkaline lakes, the Momella Lakes are perhaps the most iconic feature of Arusha National Park’s landscape. These lakes attract an array of birdlife, particularly waterbirds, and are a paradise for bird watchers. Flamingos are a common sight, often seen in large flocks, giving the lakes a pinkish hue. Other birds include herons, pelicans, egrets, and waders. The lakes also reflect the grandeur of Mount Meru, adding to the scenic beauty of the area. Canoe safaris on the lakes offer a unique way to experience wildlife up close, as you glide past hippos and waterbucks.
Ngurdoto Crater
Often referred to as a “mini Ngorongoro Crater,” Ngurdoto Crater is a volcanic caldera with steep cliffs and a lush forest interior. The crater floor is mostly swampland, attracting buffalo, warthogs, and various antelope species. Visitors are not allowed to descend into the crater itself, but several viewpoints along the rim provide stunning vistas of the crater’s floor and the animals that graze within. The crater is surrounded by montane forests where black-and-white colobus monkeys swing through the trees, and bird species such as the hornbill and crowned eagle can be spotted.
Wildlife
While Arusha National Park is not known for the “Big Five” safari animals, it nonetheless offers an impressive variety of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, and several species of antelope, such as the bushbuck and dik-dik. The park is also home to several primate species, including blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a leopard lounging in the trees.
The park also boasts one of the highest concentrations of giraffes in Tanzania, often referred to as “the land of giraffes.” It is also one of the few places in Tanzania where you can see the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Activities to Do in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers a wide range of activities, catering to diverse interests. Unlike other national parks, where activities may be restricted to game drives, Arusha provides more intimate and unique ways of experiencing its environment. Some of the most popular activities include:
Game Drives
The most traditional way to explore Arusha National Park is by safari vehicle. Game drives allow visitors to cover large areas of the park in search of wildlife. A half-day or full-day game drive can take you through diverse landscapes, from open savannah to lush rainforest and volcanic craters. Game drives offer opportunities to spot giraffes, buffaloes, and various bird species, all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru.
Walking Safaris
Arusha National Park is one of the few Tanzanian parks where guided walking safaris are allowed. Walking safaris provide a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and observe the flora and fauna up close. A park ranger accompanies every walk to ensure safety. The walking safaris are particularly popular around the base of Mount Meru, where you can see smaller animals, birdlife, and plant species that may be missed on a traditional game drive.
Mount Meru Climb
For adventure seekers, climbing Mount Meru is a must-do activity. While it is often overshadowed by Kilimanjaro, the Mount Meru trek is a challenging, scenic, and rewarding experience in its own right. The hike typically takes three to four days, passing through lush forests, open grasslands, and rugged mountain terrain. Climbers are rewarded with spectacular views from the summit, including stunning sunrises over Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
Canoeing on Momella Lakes
For a unique safari experience, visitors can go on a canoeing safari on the serene Momella Lakes. This peaceful activity allows you to glide through the water and observe animals such as hippos, giraffes, and buffaloes from a different perspective. Canoeing also provides an excellent opportunity for bird watching, as the lakes are a magnet for waterbirds.
Bird Watching
Arusha National Park is a birder’s paradise, boasting over 400 species of birds. Whether you’re walking through the montane forests, driving around the Momella Lakes, or trekking up Mount Meru, bird watching is a rewarding activity here. Some of the notable species include flamingos, eagles, herons, and turacos. Bird enthusiasts often visit specifically for the diversity of birdlife.
Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to see and do. The park experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The grass is shorter during this time, allowing for clearer views of the animals. The dry season is also ideal for hiking and climbing Mount Meru, as the trails are less muddy and the skies are clearer, providing better views of the landscape and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Wet Season (November to May)
The rainy season is a great time to visit if you’re interested in bird watching, as migratory birds arrive during this period. The park is lush and green, and while wildlife can be more challenging to spot due to the thicker vegetation, the scenery is beautiful. The wet season is also the best time for canoeing on the Momella Lakes, as the lakes are at their fullest. However, climbing Mount Meru can be more difficult during the rainy season due to slippery trails.
Arusha National Park may not have the fame of Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but it offers a unique and intimate safari experience. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a range of activities, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through northern Tanzania. Whether you’re hiking the slopes of Mount Meru, canoeing on the tranquil Momella Lakes, or embarking on a walking safari, Arusha National Park offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.