Mount Meru
The dramatic presence of Mount Meru dominates the park and creates an impressive backdrop for photography and nature experiences.
Tanzania • Northern Circuit
Arusha National Park
A beautifully diverse park near Arusha, where Mount Meru, peaceful lakes, forested slopes and open plains come together in one remarkable landscape.
Location
Close to Arusha in northern Tanzania
Landscape
Forest, crater, lakes and open plains
Highlights
Mount Meru, Momella Lakes and diverse wildlife
About the Park
Small in distance. Rich in experience.
Arusha National Park is one of northern Tanzania's most varied protected areas and is an easy addition to a journey through the Arusha region.
The park brings together several very different landscapes, from montane forest and the slopes of Mount Meru to open grasslands, crater scenery and the beautiful Momella Lakes.
Because of this variety, a visit here can feel very different from a traditional big-game safari. It is a place to slow down, explore the landscape and experience nature in more than one way.
Avalia Adventure can include Arusha National Park as a stand-alone experience or as part of a wider Tanzania itinerary.
What You'll Discover
Four sides of Arusha National Park
The park is special because its appeal goes beyond wildlife. Mountains, water, forest and open landscapes all form part of the experience.
Momella Lakes
A collection of scenic lakes surrounded by wildlife, vegetation and mountain views, offering a quieter side of northern Tanzania.
Ngurdoto Crater
A striking volcanic crater with forested surroundings and open views that add another layer to the park's landscape.
Montane Forest
Forested areas create habitat for monkeys, birds and other wildlife while giving visitors a completely different atmosphere from the open plains.
A Different Safari Experience
More than a game drive
Arusha National Park gives travellers the opportunity to experience Tanzania's landscapes at a slower and more varied pace.
- Scenic game drives through different habitats
- Nature and walking experiences arranged according to park and guide requirements
- Canoeing around the Momella Lakes
- Birdwatching and nature photography
- Mount Meru trekking for travellers looking for a mountain challenge
Wildlife
Wildlife in a beautifully varied setting
Arusha National Park supports a variety of wildlife across its forests, grasslands and wetland areas.
Giraffe, buffalo, zebra, warthog and several species of monkeys may be encountered, while the lakes and forest environments also make the park interesting for birdwatchers.
Wildlife sightings are naturally unpredictable, which is part of what makes every visit different.
What you may encounter
- Giraffe
- Buffalo
- Zebra
- Warthog
- Monkeys
- Antelope
- Birdlife
- Waterbirds
Things To Do
Choose how you want to experience the park
Your Arusha National Park experience can be shaped around wildlife, scenery, photography, walking or a combination of different activities.
Game Drives
Explore the park by safari vehicle and move between its forests, grasslands, crater landscapes and lakes.
Walking Experiences
Experience the landscape on foot with an appropriate guided walking experience arranged according to park regulations.
Canoeing
Enjoy a peaceful perspective of the Momella Lakes while taking in the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
Birdwatching
The park's different habitats provide opportunities for travellers interested in birds and nature photography.
Photography
Capture mountain views, wildlife, crater scenery, lakes and changing landscapes throughout the day.
Mount Meru
For a longer adventure, Mount Meru offers a mountain trekking experience within the Arusha area.
When To Visit
The park changes with the seasons
Arusha National Park can be visited throughout much of the year. The best timing depends on the type of experience you want.
June – October
Many travellers prefer this period for generally drier conditions, comfortable safari days and clear scenic views. It can be a good time to combine Arusha National Park with a northern Tanzania safari.
November – May
The landscape can become greener and especially attractive for photography and birdwatching. Seasonal conditions vary, so we can help you choose the timing around your wider Tanzania itinerary.
Why Include Arusha National Park?
A natural beginning to your Tanzania journey
Because of its location near Arusha, the park can fit naturally into a northern Tanzania itinerary without requiring a long transfer to reach the experience.
It can work particularly well for travellers who want to add a shorter nature experience, walking, canoeing or Mount Meru to a wider safari journey.
Close to Arusha
Easy to combine with northern Tanzania travelMountain Views
Mount Meru creates a dramatic backdropActive Experiences
Walking and canoeing add variety to a safariPhotography
Diverse scenery throughout the park
Your Arusha Experience
Ready to explore Arusha National Park?
Tell us how much time you have and what you would like to experience. We'll help shape Arusha National Park into the right part of your Tanzania journey.
Plan Your Journey