Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a small but incredibly diverse wildlife reserve located just a short drive from Arusha town, making it an ideal destination for a day safari or the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty. Covering an area of 552 square kilometers (213 square miles), the park is home to a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, acacia woodlands, open savannahs, volcanic craters, and tranquil lakes. Despite its compact size, Arusha National Park boasts an impressive array of wildlife and is one of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can enjoy walking safaris and canoeing in addition to traditional game drives.

Diverse Landscapes and Scenic Beauty

Arusha National Park is famous for its dramatic landscapes, which include three distinct regions:

Mount Meru – The park is dominated by Mount Meru (4,566 meters / 14,980 feet), the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. The mountain’s slopes are covered in dense rainforest, home to rare wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.
Momella Lakes – A series of alkaline lakes that attract thousands of flamingos, hippos, and various waterbirds.
Ngurdoto Crater – Sometimes called the “Little Ngorongoro,” this extinct volcanic crater is home to buffaloes, warthogs, and colobus monkeys.

With its lush greenery, rolling hills, and misty mountain peaks, Arusha National Park is one of the most picturesque destinations in Tanzania.

Wildlife in Arusha National Park

While Arusha National Park does not have large predators like lions, it is home to diverse wildlife and is one of the best places to see giraffes in Tanzania. Visitors can expect to see:

Giraffes – Arusha National Park is famous for having some of the highest concentrations of giraffes in the world.
Buffaloes – Large herds roam the grasslands and woodlands.
Zebras and Warthogs – Commonly seen grazing in the open plains.
Elephants – Occasionally spotted in the forested areas.
Hippos – Found in the Momella Lakes.
Blue Monkeys & Colobus Monkeys – The park is one of the best places in Tanzania to see the rare black-and-white colobus monkey.
Leopards & Hyenas – Though elusive, they are occasionally spotted in the park.

The lack of lions makes Arusha National Park perfect for walking safaris, as visitors can explore the park on foot without the risk of encountering large predators.

Birdwatching Paradise

With over 400 bird species, Arusha National Park is a haven for birdwatchers. The Momella Lakes attract large flocks of flamingos, herons, pelicans, and kingfishers, while the forests are home to trogons, turacos, and hornbills. The park also hosts migratory birds from November to April, making it an excellent destination for birding enthusiasts.