Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a compact yet remarkably diverse national park dominated by Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak at 4,562 meters (14,967 feet). Located just a short drive from Arusha city, this 552-square-kilometer park offers an exceptional variety of landscapes ranging from open savannahs and acacia woodlands to lush rainforests, making it an ideal destination for visitors with limited time who still want authentic Tanzanian wildlife experiences. The park's most prominent features include Mount Meru itself, the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater (a 400-meter-deep extinct volcano often compared to a mini Ngorongoro), and the picturesque Momela Lakes, which attract large flocks of flamingos and offer stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. Wildlife viewing in Arusha National Park is more low-key compared to major safari destinations, but the park compensates with its varied ecosystems and exceptional birding opportunities. The Momela Lakes area is best for spotting buffalo, giraffes, defassa waterbucks, and Kirk's dik-diks, while the forested areas harbor shy species like bushbuck and Harvey's red duiker. The park's flagship animal is the Kilimanjaro colobus, a rare monkey species found only on Mount Kilimanjaro and in two obscure Kenyan forests. Beyond traditional game drives, Arusha National Park offers diverse activities including the popular four-day climb of Mount Meru (an excellent acclimatization option for Mount Kilimanjaro climbers), day hikes to Meru Crater, canoeing on the Momela Lakes, guided mountain biking, and walking safaris. With approximately 400 bird species recorded in the park, it has become increasingly popular among birding enthusiasts, particularly during the wet season months.

Diverse landscapes including open savannahs, acacia woodlands, lush rainforests, volcanic crater, mountain slopes, and scenic lakes with mountain backdrops

Arusha National Park is located near the Arusha region with local Maasai and other communities. Tourism provides economic benefits to local populations through employment and cultural interactions.

Best light for photography during early morning and late afternoon game drives. Flamingos at Momela Lakes provide excellent photo opportunities, especially with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop on clear days. Mount Meru offers stunning landscape photography. Bring telephoto lenses for wildlife and birding photography.