ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a small national park located in Arusha, Tanzania, covering an area of 137 sq. km. It is the smallest national park in the northern circuit of Tanzania and is less an hour from Arusha town. The park offers various activities, such as game drives, hiking, and canoeing, and is a popular Tanzanian destination for safaris and trekking. Lake Momela, located within the park, is a shallow, acidic lake famous for its resident and migratory birdlife, especially the flamingos.

The Ngurdoto crater, a large volcanic caldera formed millions of years ago, is also a significant attraction in the park and is 3 kilometres wide and 400 meters deep. Arusha National Park is also the main entrance point to Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth-highest in Africa, standing at 4,566 m. Visitors can climb Mount Meru for three or four days. Enjoy a Tanzania safari tour by visiting this beautiful park in Arusha.

Attractions in Arusha National Park

Mount Meru

Arusha National Park is home to the iconic Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is a dormant volcano located in Arusha National Park in Tanzania. It stands at an impressive height of 4,562 meters. The mountain offers a variety of hiking options, from short 3-day hikes to long 4-day treks.

Ngurdoto Crater

Ngurdoto Crater is another attraction in Arusha National Park. It is a magnificent geological formation that offers a unique experience to visitors. It was formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activity and the subsequent collapse of the volcano’s cone. The crater is about 3 kilometres wide and 400 meters deep, making it quite an impressive sight. Visitors can explore the crater’s lush forests, which are home to a variety of wildlife, such as buffalo, elephants, baboons, and many species of birds. The crater’s verdant vegetation also provides a habitat for several rare and endemic plant species.

Momella Lakes

These seven shallow alkaline lakes are a beautiful sight within the park. These lakes consist of Big Momela, Small Momela, El Kekhotoito, Kusare, Rishateni, Lekandiro, and Tulusia. They are known for their stunning natural beauty and provide a perfect habitat for various bird species, including flamingos. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of the lakes while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The lakes are also ideal for photography, with the serene water and beautiful birds making for the perfect photo opportunities.

Tululusia Hill and Waterfalls

Tululusia Hill, meaning “lookout point, “is a viewpoint that provides an excellent view of the lower areas of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru, and the majestic Kilimanjaro. Tululusia is one of the most famous waterfalls in the park. It is found in a narrow valley and was formed due to the erosion of soft volcanic soil, leaving behind a steep gorge with a height of 28m. It’s the home of nesting red-winged starlings. The best time to visit Tululusia waterfalls is between June and October when it’s dry.

Black and White Colobus Monkeys

The Arusha National Park is a habitat to black and white colobus monkeys. Monkeys are known for their black and white fur, long white tails, and distinctive mantles of long white hair along their shoulders. They are herbivorous and primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Colobus monkeys are social and active during the day. They are also known for their loud and distinct vocalizations, which you can hear throughout the park.

Visitors to Arusha National Park can often spot these monkeys in the trees or on the ground, and they are known to be quite curious and may approach humans. However, it is essential to remember that they are wild animals and should not be fed or disturbed. These monkeys play an indispensable role in the ecosystem of Arusha National Park and are a popular attraction for visitors.

Fig Tree Arch

The Fig Tree Arch (Ficus thoningii) is a popular tourist attraction in Arusha National Park. The arch is created by two massive fig trees that have grown closely together, with their branches intertwined. The shape of the arch is unique and provides breathtaking views. Moreover, the roots of the trees have reached the ground, forming an archway large enough for a car to pass through. The Fig Tree Arch is not only aesthetically pleasing but also holds cultural significance for the local Maasai people. The arch is believed to be a sacred site where the Maasai would come to pray and make offerings to their deity.

Things to do in Arusha National Park

Game Drives

One of the best ways to explore Arusha National Park is through a game drive. A game drive takes you through the park’s different habitats, allowing you to spot various wildlife, including giraffes and buffaloes. Depending on your preference, you can choose to go on a half-day or full-day game drive.

Mountain Trekking

Mount Meru is a dormant volcano within the Arusha National Park, approximately 70 kilometres west of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters above sea level. Mount Meru trekking in Arusha National Park is a popular activity in Tanzania. The trekking experience usually takes 3 to 4 days and suits both experienced and non-experienced hikers.

The trail to the summit is challenging but offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Mount Kilimanjaro and the wildlife in the national park. Trekkers will pass through diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky landscapes.

Walking Safaris

Arusha National Park offers a range of hiking options for exploring the park on foot. Depending on your fitness level and interests, you can choose from short walking safaris to longer walking safaris. A walking safari in Arusha National Park is a unique and exciting way to experience the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. Unlike traditional game drives, a walking safari allows visitors to explore the park on foot, accompanied by an armed ranger and an experienced guide.

This intimate experience allows for a deeper connection with the environment and a chance to see the park differently. During the walking safari, visitors can encounter a wide variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, buffalos, elephants, and over 400 species of birds. The park is also home to black and white colobus monkeys.

Canoeing on the Momela Lakes

For a unique experience, you can also go on a canoe safari on the Momela Lakes. This experience allows you to get up close and personal with the park’s resident hippos and crocodiles while enjoying the serene beauty of the lakes.

Best time to visit Arusha National Park

The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This is when the weather is cooler and there is less rain, making exploring the park and spotting wildlife easier. It is better to avoid the heavy rainy season, which runs from March to May, as the heavy rainfall can make roads and trails difficult to navigate and may limit visibility for wildlife viewing.