Arusha National Park

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Home / Destinations / Arusha National Park – Tanzania’s Underrated Gem

A Pocket of Wild Beauty Near Arusha

Located just 45 minutes from Arusha city, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse parks. Though small in size, it offers stunning landscapes, varied wildlife, and unique safari experiences like walking and canoeing. It’s perfect for a day trip or as a soft introduction before bigger safaris.

Why Visit Arusha National Park?

Arusha National Park is a small but diverse park that offers a mix of scenery and unique activities. It’s a great place to start or end your safari in Northern Tanzania. Here’s why it’s worth a visit:

  • Only park in Northern Tanzania offering walking and canoe safaris
  • Home to Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania
  • Beautiful Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater
  • Close to Kilimanjaro and Arusha airports

Top Things to Do in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park offers a variety of activities that you won’t find in most other parks in Northern Tanzania. From walking safaris to canoeing and mountain hikes, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here are the top things to do in Arusha National Park:

1. Walking Safari with a Ranger

Get up close to giraffes, zebras, and antelopes on foot with an armed guide. It’s a thrilling and educational way to explore the park.

2. Canoe Safari on Momella Lakes

Paddle through calm waters surrounded by flamingos and hippos while enjoying views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro on clear days.

3. Game Drives

Spot buffaloes, warthogs, giraffes, and occasionally leopards or elephants. The park is great for half-day or full-day drives.

4. Hiking Mount Meru

Challenge yourself with a 3–4 day climb that offers spectacular scenery and far fewer crowds than Kilimanjaro.

5. Ngurdoto Crater Tour

Often called “Little Ngorongoro,” this forested crater is home to monkeys, elephants, and plenty of birdlife.

Wildlife & Nature Highlights

  • Black-and-white colobus monkeys (hard to see elsewhere)
  • Giraffes, Buffalos, Warthogs, Zebras
  • Over 400 bird species including flamingos and hornbills
  • Lush forests, volcanic craters, and alpine meadows

Getting There

Arusha National Park is one of the easiest parks to reach in Northern Tanzania. Its close location to Arusha town and nearby airports makes it perfect for day trips or short visits. Here’s how to get there:

  • Distance from Arusha: ~30 km (1 hour drive)
  • Closest Airport: Kilimanjaro International (JRO)
  • Great for day trips before or after longer safaris

Where to Stay

Whether you prefer staying inside the park or nearby in Arusha town, there are plenty of options to suit your budget. From luxury lodges to simple guesthouses, you’ll find something that fits your travel style. Here are some popular places to stay:

  • Hatari Lodge – upscale lodge inside the park
  • Two Mountains Lodge – Luxury-friendly
  • Numerous options in Arusha town, just outside the park

Travel Tips

A visit to Arusha National Park is fun and easy with a little preparation. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some useful travel tips to keep in mind

  • Bring a rain jacket – weather can change fast
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes
  • Always go with a certified guide for safety and insight
  • Combine with nearby Mount Meru or coffee tours

The Bottomline 

Arusha National Park may be small, but it’s full of charm and adventure. It’s a great mix of nature, wildlife, and calm. It’s perfect for travelers with little time or anyone seeking a quiet break from busier parks.

Looking for a safari that’s different? Start your journey here, just a heartbeat from the city.

Popular Questions

How big is arusha national park?

Arusha National Park covers an area of approximately 552 square kilometers. It is one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania but is rich in biodiversity. The park lies in the northeastern part of the country, close to the city of Arusha. Despite its size, it includes diverse landscapes such as Mount Meru, tropical forests, and Momella Lakes. Its compact size makes it ideal for day trips and short safaris.

Yes, Arusha National Park is definitely worth visiting. Despite its small size, the park offers a rich variety of landscapes, from lush forests and crater lakes to the majestic Mount Meru. It’s one of the few parks in Tanzania where you can enjoy walking safaris and canoeing, offering a more personal wildlife experience. Located just 30 minutes from Arusha town, it’s convenient and ideal for a short day trip. The entrance fee is affordable, and the experience is well worth the price for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

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