Gosheni Destination
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a place of mixed landscapes – towering Mount Meru, dense rainforests and sparkling lakes – in northern Tanzania. Ideal for a day trip before tackling nearby Mount Kilimanjaro, it is home to the world’s highest concentration of giraffes and an excellent variety of other mammals and birds.
Location & Habitats
The park is approximately 30 km (18.6 mi) from the town of Arusha, which is considered the gateway to the famed Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania. Kilimanjaro International Airport is 35 km (22 mi) away. The park covers 552 sq. km (213 sq. mi). Mount Meru forms the highest point of the park, at 4 562m (14 967ft).
This small national park boasts great biodiversity thanks to its varied habitats. These include rainforests that are home to colobus monkeys, open savannah and mixed woodlands where zebra and giraffe roam, the alpine desert slopes of Mount Meru with peculiar flora and the Momella Lakes, whose alkali waters attract a technicolored array of water birds.
Conservation History
Arusha National Park was originally designated in 1960, to protect Mount Meru. Later, the management mandate was expanded to preserve the diverse habitats and the unique wildlife found therein. The park is well-managed, with active anti-poaching and habitat restoration initiatives in place. To ensure its future, there are numerous collaborative projects with neighboring communities which emphasize sustainable tourism, environmental education and poverty alleviation.
Tourism
Regulations
- No offroad driving
- Do not exceed the speed limit of 50 kph
- Night game drives are not permitted
- Only leave the vehicle at designated points
- Do not harm, harass or feed wildlife
- No littering
- No excessive noise
- No fires
Access
There are regular international and domestic flights from various destinations to nearby Kilimanjaro International Airport. From there, it is approximately a one-hour drive to the park’s main gate.
Day trips by road from Arusha are readily available with various tour operators.
Highlights Within Arusha National Park
Mount Meru
At 4 562 m (14 967 ft), Tanzania's second-highest mountain offers a stiff challenge for trekking enthusiasts.
Game Viewing
Despite its small size, the park is well-stocked with wildlife, including three of the Big 5.
Ngurudoto Crater
Accessible only on foot, the crater floor is partially covered in a rainforest teeming with life.
Tours Starting from Arusha City
- 5 Days
- Tanzania
- 10 Days
- Tanzania
- 13 Days
- Tanzania
- 7 Days
- Tanzania
- Tarangire, Ndutu Area, Ngorongoro, Serengeti Central, Lake Manyara
Highlights in the Vicinity of Arusha National Park
Chagga village tour
Visit a traditional village with a local Chagga guide to learn more about this colorful culture
Bird watching
Well over 400 species of birds have been recorded in the area - paradise for bird enthusiasts
Arusha
A bustling frontier town with a selection of hotels, restaurants, museums and galleries.
Places Worth Visiting
Within Arusha National Park
Showcases various hominid and fossil relics found in the nearby crater of the same name.
Near the Arusha National Park
As key stakeholders in the management of the reserve, a visit to a traditional Maasai village creates a better understanding of both their culture and their role in local conservation efforts.
Activities
Game Drives
Choose between full and half-day excursions in search of African wildlife, led by experienced local guides.
Cultural Encounters
Learn more about the cultural heritage and history of the local people on a guided tour of villages, community projects and festivals.
Picnic
Your guide will choose a scenic location where a lavish picnic can be enjoyed.
Bird-watching
Dozens of colorful birds can be found in the various habitats of the park, with over 400 species recorded.
Nature Walks
Enjoy an intimate experience of nature in the company of a qualified walking guide.
Canoeing
Paddle on the various lakes and watch the wildlife activity on the lush shores.
Horse Riding
Ride amongst the wildlife for an unusually close wildlife experience.
Wildlife
For a relatively small national park, and considering that much of the park is inaccessible, it is home to a good variety of wildlife. Two members of the Big 5, buffalo, elephant and leopard, are present, although sightings of the latter two are rare. Spotted hyenas are also occasionally spotted. Good populations of giraffe, zebra, warthog and hippos mix with various antelope species. Primates are frequently seen, with colobus and blue monkeys quite common. The varied habitats make it an ideal home to birdlife. Waterfowl are abundant around the various lakes, while the forests are home to beautiful trogons and turacos. In all, over 400 bird species have been recorded. For a snapshot of African wildlife, this is a great destination.
Landscape
Weather and Climate
On average, the climate is pleasant throughout the year. It seldom gets too hot during the day, although nighttime temperatures can get quite cold, extending into the early morning. If you plan early morning activities, be sure to pack warm clothing that can be layered.
From June to October, there is little chance of rain. Two Wet Seasons run from November to December and from March to May. During this time, afternoon showers are common. Due to the microclimate influenced by the presence of Mount Meru, the immediate area receives slightly more rain on average than the surrounding area.
Best Time To Go
- Best Time to Go
- Dry Season
- Wet Season
- Shoulder Season
June to October. Dry conditions mean the park is more easily accessed and game viewing is better around permanent water.
June to October, featuring warm days and cool overnight. Best for game viewing and hiking.
March to May and through November-December. This is the best time for bird-watching
Tourist numbers decline over the Wet Season when both Kilimanjaro and the other parks of the Northern Safari Circuit are less accessible.
