Arusha National Park

Adventure, wildlife, and scenery combine in vibrant Arusha National Park.

Arusha National Park offers diverse landscapes, from volcanic peaks to lush craters, only minutes from the city. Visitors enjoy hiking Mount Meru, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and spotting rare Colobus monkeys in forests, all within a compact yet breathtaking Tanzanian Safari Destination.

Area

552 sq km

Established

1960

Location

Northern Tanzania

Altitude

1,400 - 4,566 m

Climate

Cool Tropical

Terrain

Mountain Forests

Fauna

Colobus Monkeys

Flora

Montane

A Compact Jewel of Tanzania’s Scenic Treasures!

The park is small, but it has a wide variety of animals. In only one day of exploring, visitors can see giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and a wide range of bird species.

The park is a small area that showcases Tanzania’s beauty through trekking, canoeing, or simply taking in the sights. It works just as well for a quiet day excursion as it does for a memorable start or end to an extended Tanzania Safari.

This national park is only a few minutes from Arusha and Moshi, making it easy to get to a beautiful mix of nature and landscape. Because of where it is, it’s perfect for people who want a brief but meaningful break in nature.

Landscapes change a lot within their boundaries, going from broad savannah and lush rainforests to acacia trees and alpine meadows on the slopes of Mount Meru. Every zone offers fresh sights to explore and capture with your camera.

Best Time To Visit Arusha

Wildlife viewing is excellent all year, but June to October offers the best sightings. Wet months from November to May bring lush scenery, though March and April can be rainy.

Best Time

June to October

High Season

July to March

Low Season

April and May

Best Weather

June to October

Best Time

June to October

High Season

July to March

Low Season

April and May

Best Weather

June to October

Explore Tanzania’s Top Safari Packages

Discover an incredible collection of  Tanzania’s best safari packages. From thrilling game drives and breathtaking landscapes to rich cultures and abundant wildlife . 

7 Days Southern Serengeti Safari

7 Days Northern Serengeti Safari

9 Days Tanzania Safari

Top Reasons to Visit Stunning Arusha National Park

Beyond the mountain, Arusha is home to Momella Lakes, where seasonal flamingos and waterbirds create a living canvas of color, and the dramatic Ngurdoto Crater, sometimes called “Little Ngorongoro,” with its marshy floor teeming with wildlife.

Adding to its charm are unique sites like the Mini Serengeti, where herbivores gather at dawn, and the Fig Tree Arch, a natural wonder large enough for a safari vehicle to pass through. Together with over 400 bird species, this blend of landscapes, wildlife, and rare attractions makes Arusha a park that always surprises.

Arusha National Park is often described as a hidden gem of Tanzania—compact, diverse, and packed with surprises. Its proximity to Arusha city makes it an ideal starting or finishing point for a northern safari adventure.

The park is dominated by Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, which rises dramatically over forests and grasslands. Adventurers often see it as a rewarding climb before tackling Kilimanjaro, offering scenic trails and striking crater views.

The park is also known for its breathtaking viewpoints. On clear days, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance, its snow-capped peak rising above the clouds like a distant dream.

Arusha’s gentle pace and easy access make it perfect for day trips or short stays. Whether you come for a hike, a drive, or a picnic by the lakes, the park always leaves visitors feeling refreshed and inspired.

Arusha National Park offers an incredible variety of habitats within a small area. From mountain forests and open plains to sparkling lakes, each part of the park feels completely different yet beautifully connected. Exploring it feels like taking several safaris in one place.

The forested slopes of Mount Meru are full of life. Colobus monkeys leap through the treetops, and bushbucks move quietly below. The cool mountain air and peaceful atmosphere make walking safaris here both relaxing and rewarding.

Arusha National Park FAQs

How many days should I plan for a visit to Arusha National Park?

Most people spend one to two days seeing the park’s principal attractions on game drives and guided walks. It would be recommended to give yourself at least four days to climb Mount Meru.

Yes, the park has a number of places to stay. If you want a more exciting stay, you may select from basic public campsites. If you want a more restful stay, you can stay in nice lodges and rest homes which have private rooms, better facilities, and a more soothing atmosphere.

There aren’t many food choices inside the park. There is a restaurant, but most guests choose to bring their own food to eat while they are there because there aren’t many options, and they are sometimes only accessible later in the day.

Yes, the park is a great place to go for a day trip because it is close to the city of Arusha. If you’re short on time or want to add another stop to your safari schedule before flying out of Arusha Airport, this is the perfect place to go.

Yes, the park is a pretty safe place to go. The wildlife is the most dangerous part, but your experienced guide will always be with you to explain safety guidelines, assist you in being careful, and make sure you have a great time on your safari.

Arusha National Park has a lot to offer. If visitors want a more difficult adventure, they may embark on wildlife drives, guided nature walks, birding trips, or even try to climb Mount Meru.

Explore East Africa’s Timeless Safari Destinations

Journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where landscapes shift from endless savannahs to misty mountains. Witness lions roaming the Serengeti, gorillas in Rwanda’s volcanoes, and elephants crossing Kenya’s plains. Each destination offers its own beauty, culture, and rhythm, creating a safari experience that defines East Africa’s untamed soul.

Your Complete Travel Guide to Explore The Wild Tanzania!

Explore practical guides to make planning your Tanzania safari easier and more enjoyable. Discover expert insights on budgeting, packing, and seasons, plus local food and cultural tips. Each guide helps you prepare confidently for a relaxed, rewarding, and adventure-filled journey through Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife wonders.

Safari Cost

Know Your Budget

Safari Packing List

Pack Smartly Always

Safari Foods

Taste Local Flavors

Safari Cost

Know Your Budget

Safari Packing List

Pack Smartly Always

Safari Foods

Taste Local Flavors

Create your tailor-made trip

Plan your trip with us and enjoy safaris, sunsets, and stories you’ll love sharing again and again.

Talk to Safari Expert

Connect with our safari expert today for honest tips, smart planning, and insider travel recommendations.

"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

Jon H

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

Anna L

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

Jon H

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

Anna L

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

Get Inspired Now

Find out how amazing East Africa's safaris are, with lions roaming, boundless plains, & vibrant civilizations. Visit Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, & Rwanda, where every sunrise feels fresh & every trip makes you want to go deeper into Africa's untamed heart.