Nestled on the foothills of Mt Meru in Arusha National Park – a small national park(137 sq. km) 45 minutes away from Arusha City. It has a variety of landscapes such as the open savannah, acacia scrubland, and rainforest among others.
The distinct spectacular landscape features are the Meru Crater, the Ngurdoto Crater, and the Momela Lakes. These features host different kinds of plants and animals which makes the park rich in biodiversity.
Game drives provide an opportunity to view very many animals in Arusha National Park. It involves taking a drive on the trails and running through the park while viewing animals along the way.
Tanzania Walking safaris are quite common in the park. Since there are no predators in the park, it is a bit safe to take a walking safari. Visitors move with an armed ranger to ensure more safety.
Walking safaris offer a better and up-close look at wildlife in Arusha National Park.
Canoeing is an amazing activity to do in order to enjoy the calm waters of Lake Momela. This activity offers views of many animals like hippopotamus, giraffes, bushbucks, African fish eagles, African olive pigeons, Augur buzzards, and many others.
Climbing Mt Meru usually takes 3-4 days. All climbing groups start at Momella Gate and take the same route to the top.
It is easy to spot wildlife along the trail. There are also huts along the way that provide basic but comfortable accommodation.
The views at the top are breathtaking especially the side with the scenic Mt Kilimanjaro at a distance.
Arusha National Park has over 400 bird species.
These include the hadada ibis, the pink flamingos, the white-necked raven, the African fish eagle, pelicans, saddle-billed stork, cattle egret, scaly francolin, African olive pigeon, Egyptian goose, golden eagle, crowned eagle, Jacobin cuckoo, ostriches, yellow-billed stork, African spoonbill, black-headed heron, African jacanas, bronzy sunbird, white-crested tilt, Hamerkop, and so many others.
Momela Lakes are seven shallow lakes in Arusha National Park. These lakes include Big Momela, Small Momela, El Kekhotoito, Kusare, Rishateni, Lekandiro, and Tulusia.
They are alkaline lakes formed from volcanic debris so animals do not drink their water. Different animals and birds, however, may be seen on their banks. These Momela Lakes are a great habitat, especially for pink flamingos.
Mt Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. At a height of 4,562.13m, it is visible and provides a beautiful backdrop for Arusha National Park.
Mt Meru has a rainforest that hosts many wild animals and birds.
There are many animals in Arusha National Park despite its small size. This is attributed to the variety of landscapes in the area. Animals that may be spotted in the park include giraffes, cape buffalo, zebras, warthogs, black and white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and many others. There are also some Leopards although they are often not seen.
The park is home to over 400 different bird species. Birds that can be seen include African fish eagles, Augur buzzards, Verreaux’s eagles, flamingoes, silver-cheeked Hornbills, little grebe, hammerkops, pelicans, and very many others.
Migratory birds may be seen in the park from November to April.
Accommodation may be within the park or in Arusha City which is 45 minutes away. There is a variety of accommodations available and well-developed to suit your needs according to your budget.
The best time to visit Arusha National Park is from June to March during the dry seasons with occasional rains in November.
This time is also best for climbing Mt Meru.
The park can be accessed by either road or air transport.
By road, driving to Arusha National Park from;
