Ngurdoto Crater
A forested crater with a grassy floor, best enjoyed from viewpoints along the rim.
Northern Tanzania Safari
Arusha National Park
Walking safaris, canoeing and Mount Meru views, close to Arusha town.
Arusha National Park is a small, varied park that offers a different style of safari, with forests, crater views and lakes.
Northern Circuit · Tanzania
Discover Arusha National Park
A Compact Park with Big Variety
Arusha National Park lies just outside Arusha and brings together three main areas: the Ngurdoto Crater, the Momella Lakes and the slopes of Mount Meru.
It is a good choice for a short trip, a day excursion or a gentler start to a longer journey, especially for travellers who enjoy walking and scenery.
Its mix of forest and open country supports a different group of animals from the bigger savannah parks.
Mount MeruDramatic backdrop
Momella LakesBirdlife
NgurdotoCrater viewpoints
CloseTo Arusha
Highlights
What Makes Arusha National Park Special
Three landscapes within a short distance.
Momella Lakes
A series of lakes with different colours, popular with waterbirds and other wildlife.
Mount Meru Views
On clear days, the mountain's peak forms a striking backdrop to the park.
Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife of the Park
The park is known for black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes, buffalo, warthogs and a variety of birds.
Large predators are less commonly seen than in other parks, but the setting is rewarding in its own way.
Colobus Monkeys
Giraffes
Buffalo
Warthogs
Hippos
Flamingos
Bushbuck
Birdlife
Things to Do
Experience Arusha National Park
A park well suited to active and flexible experiences.
Game Drives
Explore forest, crater and lake areas in a 4x4 vehicle.
Walking Safaris
Walk with an armed ranger and learn about plants, tracks and wildlife.
Canoeing
Paddle on the Momella Lakes for a quiet, close-up view of birds.
Birdwatching
A varied park for forest birds and waterbirds.
Photography
Mountain views, lakes and forest scenes offer many opportunities.
Day Trips
An easy excursion from Arusha for those with limited time.
When to Visit
The Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
Your ideal travel period depends on the experiences and landscapes you want to enjoy.
The Dry Season
Clear skies often give good views of Mount Meru and easier walking conditions.
The Green Season
Landscapes are lush and birdlife is active, although paths may be muddy.
Plan Your Visit
Getting to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a short drive from Arusha town, making it suitable for half-day or full-day visits.
Walking and canoeing activities must be arranged in advance.
- Short road transfer from Arusha.
- Walking safaris require a park ranger.
- Pack layers, as weather can change quickly.
- Check current park fees and activity availability before travel.
Northern Tanzania Safari
Let Us Plan Your Arusha National Park Journey
Tell us your dates, group size and what you hope to experience, and we will shape a journey around it.
Plan Your Arusha National Park Journey