The Versatile Gateway Safari

Arusha National Park

A compact gem where you can climb Mt. Meru, canoe among giraffes, and take an exhilarating walking safari.

Walk the Park View Mt. Meru

The Park with Three Distinct Areas

Arusha National Park is often overlooked but provides a stunning microcosm of East African ecosystems. Located close to the city, it serves as a perfect day trip or an introduction to a longer safari. The park is characterized by three distinct features: The towering slopes of **Mount Meru** (Tanzania's second-highest peak), the spectacular **Ngurdoto Crater** (a lush caldera often called 'Little Ngorongoro'), and the colorful **Momella Lakes** (alkaline waters attracting vast birdlife). It's unique for the variety of non-motorized activities it offers.

Proximity to City

Only 30 minutes drive from Arusha town, making it ideal for short visits.

Visitor Flexibility

Allows walking safaris, canoeing, and game drives—highly diverse activities.

Mount Meru peak view from Arusha National Park
Triple-Threat Geology and Unique Residents

The Three Wonders: Meru, Ngurdoto, and Momella

This park is a geological masterpiece. From the slopes of Mt. Meru to the lush, marshy floor of the Ngurdoto Crater, the scenery changes dramatically over short distances. Due to this elevation change, the wildlife is less concentrated than in the plains, but provides unique sightings, particularly of the **Black and White Colobus Monkey** and large herds of **Buffalo** and **Giraffe**.

Mount Meru Forest

Mount Meru 🏔️

Tanzania's second-highest peak (4,566m). The lower slopes are a dense forest haven for buffalo and primates, serving as the start of the 3-4 day trek to the summit.

View of Ngurdoto Crater

Ngurdoto Crater 💚

A marshy bowl filled with wildlife, including buffalo, warthogs, and elephants. Visitors view the crater from several lookouts along the rim (no descent allowed).

Flamingos at Momella Lakes

Momella Lakes 💦

A series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes, each with a different mineral composition, attracting vast numbers of water birds and occasional flamingos.

Unique Sighting: The **Black and White Colobus Monkey**, easily spotted in the forest areas, often resting high in the trees.

Adventures Beyond the Game Drive

Arusha National Park is celebrated for its unique non-motorized activities, offering genuine connection to the African bush.

Walking Safaris

A must-do activity! Walk with an armed ranger to see giraffes, zebras, and buffalo up close, focusing on tracking and nature’s details.

Canoe Safaris

Paddle silently on the Momella Lakes, viewing waterbucks, hippos, and thousands of water birds from a unique, low-to-the-water perspective.

Mount Meru Trekking

A challenging 3-4 day climb to the summit (4,566m), ideal for altitude acclimatization before Kilimanjaro or as a standalone trek.

Birding & Photography

Over 400 bird species and stunning landscapes make this a photographer's dream, especially around the alkaline lakes.

Comfort at the Foot of Meru

Where to Stay near Arusha NP

Most accommodation is located just outside the park gates or in the nearby towns of Arusha and Moshi, offering convenience and superb volcano views.

Luxury

Arusha Coffee Lodges

High-end lodges and manor houses located in the Arusha suburbs, providing pre-safari luxury and comfort.

  • Excellent amenities
  • Close to the airport (JRO)
BEST VIEWS
Park Gate

Near Usa River & Gate

Lodges located along the western gate route, offering the quickest access to the park entrance and Meru views.

  • Quick park access
  • Trekking convenience
Budget

Town & Budget Hostels

For budget travellers, Arusha town offers plenty of guesthouses and hostels with easy access to the park via transport.

  • Excellent budget value
  • Shops and restaurants nearby
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