Arusha National Park is a protected area in Tanzania that offers a unique blend of diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. Covering an area of 137 square kilometers, the park is located near the bustling town of Arusha and is easily accessible to visitors. It is home to Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Africa, and a variety of wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys. With its varied terrain and proximity to the city, Arusha National Park is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Tanzania.
Arusha National Park is located just a short drive from the town of Arusha, making it easily accessible by road. Visitors can also fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and then take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to the park. There are also organized tours and safaris that include Arusha National Park as part of their itinerary. Once inside the park, visitors can explore by foot, car, or bike, with various trails and roads available for touring.
The weather in Arusha National Park is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) throughout the year. The park has two rainy seasons, the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to December. The dry season, which is the best time for wildlife viewing, runs from June to September, and January to February.
Arusha National Park is located just a short drive from the town of Arusha, making it easily accessible by road. Visitors can also fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and then take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to the park. There are also organized tours and safaris that include Arusha National Park as part of their itinerary. Once inside the park, visitors can explore by foot, car, or bike, with various trails and roads available for touring.
The name which means “Little Serengeti”, describes the open grassland, a place in the park where various animals in large numbers can easily be seen such as buffaloes, warthogs zebras, waterbucks, giraffes, etc
Tourists enjoying walking at Serengeti ndogo
Buffaloes doing mock combat at Serengeti ndogo
Ngurdoto Crater, Little Serengeti
Arusha National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, ranging from large mammals such as buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and elephants to smaller creatures like mongooses, hyraxes, and dik-diks. The park is also home to primates such as the black and white colobus monkey, and bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting some of the over 400 bird species found in the park. With its varied terrain and abundant wildlife, Arusha National Park provides a unique safari experience that is unmatched in Tanzania.
Black and white colubus monkey
Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth highest on the African continent. It is located in Arusha National Park and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The mountain is an active stratovolcano and is surrounded by lush rainforest and diverse wildlife. The ascent to the summit takes about three to four days, and hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti Plains, and Lake Manyara. At the summit, hikers can see the crater and ash cone, and on a clear day, even Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance
Ngurdoto Crater is a large volcanic caldera within Arusha National Park that offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and plains. Meru Crater is a smaller crater located within the slopes of Mount Meru, offering scenic vistas of the landscape. Both craters are popular spots for hiking and wildlife viewing, with visitors often spotting buffalos, baboons, and birds in the area. The lush vegetation and diverse wildlife make Ngurdoto and Meru Craters a must-see attraction for any visitor to Arusha National Park.
Tululusia hill meaning “lookout point” is a view point that provides an excellent view of the lower areas of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru and the majestic Kilimanjaro. Tululusia Waterfall found on a narrow sided valley formed as a result of erosion of a soft volcanic soil leaving behind a steep gorge with the height of 28m (84ft). It’s a home of nesting Red-winged Starlings and having a chance of getting your photos around this natural environment are usually spectacular!
Arusha National Park is also home to a rich variety of birdlife, with over 400 species recorded in the area. From the rare Hartlaub’s Turaco to the beautiful African Fish Eagle, bird enthusiasts will have plenty to marvel at. The Momella Lakes, which are alkaline, attract many water birds including flamingos and pelicans. The park’s diverse habitats make it an ideal destination for bird watching, with a chance to spot many endemic and migratory species.
A striking feature of the Fig Tree Arch (Ficus thoningii) with its roots reaching the ground while leaving behind an arch enough for a car to drive through.
Arusha National Park is a hidden gem in Tanzania that offers a unique combination of diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. With its varied terrain, including the iconic Mount Meru, and the presence of the Tululusia Hill and Waterfall, visitors can experience a range of activities such as game drives, birdwatching, hiking, and cultural tours. As a protected area, the park is committed to preserving its biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism. A visit to Arusha National Park, with the guidance of our expert team, is a must for any traveler seeking an authentic African adventure.
The best time to visit the park is during the dry season from June to October when the weather is cooler and the wildlife is more concentrated around the water sources.
There are a few lodges and campsites within the park that offer various types of accommodation, from basic camping to luxury lodges.
Yes, it is possible to climb Mount Meru with a licensed guide. It is a popular alternative to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, visitors can go on safari in the park and see a variety of wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys.
Yes, it is generally safe to visit the park. However, visitors are advised to take the usual precautions and follow the park rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
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