Arusha National Park

Overview

Arusha National Park is a compact yet diverse park located just outside the city of Arusha. It’s a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty, with landscapes that range from rainforest to savannah to alpine highlands. The park is home to Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak, and features attractions like the Ngurdoto Crater and the Momella Lakes. While it doesn't host the Big Five, Arusha offers giraffes, colobus monkeys, zebras, and an abundance of birds. It’s ideal for short visits, nature walks, canoe trips, and acclimatization hikes before climbing Kilimanjaro.

Fun Facts

  • Home to Mount Meru (4,566 meters), Kilimanjaro’s "little brother"
  • Offers one of the best chances to see black-and-white colobus monkeys
  • The Momella Lakes change color with mineral content and sunlight
  • One of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris are common
  • Close to both Arusha town and Kilimanjaro International Airport

Things to Do

  • Canoeing on the Momella Lakes
  • Guided walking safaris with park rangers
  • Game drives through the Ngurdoto Crater area
  • Mount Meru multi-day trek
  • Bird watching and photography in diverse habitats
Two giraffes stand in a grassy field under a blue sky.
Giraffe and calf standing in a grassy area with green foliage in the background.
Giraffe reaching for leaves, surrounded by gazelles in a green savanna.
Giraffe walking in a grassy field with trees. Sunlight and shadows create a bright, sunny setting.
View more

Where It’s Located

  • Location: Northern Tanzania, near Arusha town
  • Travel: ~45 minutes by road from Arusha city
  • Nearest airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport

Wildlife Highlights

  • Giraffes and zebras
  • Bushbucks, warthogs, and waterbuck
  • Colobus and blue monkeys
  • Flamingos, herons, and waterbirds at the Momella Lakes
  • Leopards and elephants (rare but present)

FAQs

  • Do I need a permit or park fee?

    Yes. TANAPA entry fees apply and can be paid at the gate or via a tour operator.

  • How many days should I spend here?

    1–2 days is ideal for game drives, canoeing, or a warm-up hike before Kilimanjaro or Meru.

  • What kind of fitness level is required?

    Low to high. Most activities are easy, but climbing Mount Meru requires high fitness.

  • Is it safe to visit Arusha National Park?

    Yes. It’s one of Tanzania’s safest and most accessible parks with well-managed trails and guides.

At a Glance

  • Country: Tanzania
  • Location: Northern Tanzania
  • Established: 1960
Hike, Canoe, and Explore Near Mount Meru