DAY TRIP TO ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK
Arusha National Park - Day Trip
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a day and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Arusha National Park. Located just a short drive from the city of Arusha, this hidden gem offers a unique and diverse safari experience unlike any other in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit. Perfect for those with limited time or as a fantastic introduction to a longer safari adventure, our day trip combines the thrill of a game drive, the intimacy of a walking safari, and the serenity of a canoe ride.
Why Choose Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is a jewel of diverse ecosystems, boasting three distinct and breathtaking areas: the beautiful Momella Lakes, the stunning Ngurdoto Crater (often called “Little Ngorongoro”), and the majestic Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak. This unique landscape, with its lush forests, open savannah, and shallow alkaline lakes, provides a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife and an incredible array of birds.
The park is famous for its large giraffe population, making it one of the best places in Africa to get up close with these elegant creatures. You’ll also encounter herds of buffalo, hippos, zebras, warthogs, and a variety of antelopes. Look high in the trees for the rare and beautiful black-and-white colobus monkeys, a highlight of any visit. While predators like lions are rare, you may be lucky enough to spot a leopard or hyena.
Detailed Day Trip Itinerary
This itinerary is designed to give you a full and memorable day of exploration, balancing different activities to showcase the best of the park.
7:30 AM – Departure from Arusha Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Arusha. Settle into a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle and enjoy the scenic 45-minute to 1.5-hour drive to the park. Your expert guide will provide an overview of the day’s activities and share fascinating facts about the region.
8:30 AM – Arrive at Arusha National Park & Start of the Walking Safari Upon arrival at the park gate, you will be met by an armed ranger who will accompany you on an exhilarating walking safari. This is a rare opportunity to connect with the African wilderness on foot. Follow animal tracks, learn about the flora and fauna from your guide, and get an intimate perspective of the landscape. The walk typically lasts 2-3 hours and takes you through the forested slopes of Mount Meru, with a chance to see giraffes, buffalo, and various primates from a different vantage point.
11:30 AM – Game Drive and Lunch After your walking safari, you’ll return to the safari vehicle for a game drive. We’ll head towards the Momella Lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater, a lush, swampy caldera that is home to a dense population of hippos and buffalo. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild, and with stunning views of Mount Meru and, on a clear day, Mount Kilimanjaro.
1:30 PM – Canoe Safari on the Momella Lakes In the afternoon, prepare for a tranquil and unique experience: a canoe safari on one of the Momella Lakes. Paddle along the shoreline with your guide, getting a water-level view of the wildlife. This is an incredible opportunity for birdwatchers, as the lakes are a haven for over 400 species of birds, including vast flocks of pink flamingos, pelicans, and kingfishers. You’ll also have a chance to spot hippos bobbing in the water and giraffes and buffalo grazing along the banks.
3:30 PM – Final Game Drive & Departure Your final hours in the park will be spent on a game drive, exploring different areas and searching for any animals you may have missed. We’ll make our way toward the park exit, enjoying the last of the spectacular scenery.
5:00 PM – Return to Arusha Depart from Arusha National Park, feeling refreshed and inspired by a day of adventure. We’ll drop you off at your hotel in Arusha, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible day.
TOUR PRICE
Price Per Person
1 Person $670
2 People $480
3 People $430
4 People $405
5 People $390
6 People $390
7 People $375
INCLUDE IN PRICE
- Transportation: This is a key component of most day trips. It typically includes a safari vehicle (often a 4×4 with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing), fuel, and the cost of a professional driver/guide. For day trips from cities like Arusha or Moshi, this will cover pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation.
- Park Fees: Entrance fees to Arusha National Park is a significant part of the cost. These fees are charged per person, often on a 24-hour basis.
- Guide Services: The cost includes the services of an experienced and licensed English-speaking guide who will lead the tour and provide information about the wildlife, environment, and culture.
- Meals and Drinks: A packed lunch (often a “picnic box lunch”) and bottled water will be provided.
- Government Taxes: The price will usually include all applicable government taxes and levies.
EXCLUDE IN PRICE
- International Flights: The cost of your international airfare to and from Tanzania is not included.
- Visa and Travel Insurance: You are responsible for obtaining your own visa for Tanzania and purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is customary and expected in Tanzania, especially for safari guides, drivers, and other service staff. These are not included in the tour price. A common guideline is around $20 USD per person per day for a guide.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry services, and snacks outside of what is provided, are your responsibility.
- Alcoholic Beverages: alcoholic drinks will be offered at an additional cost.
- Optional Activities: Any extra activities or “tour extensions” not specified in the itinerary are an added cost.
- Accommodation (for day trips): Since a day trip does not involve an overnight stay, accommodation is not included in the price. If you require accommodation before or after your trip, you will need to book this separately.
WHAT TO PACK?
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear neutral-colored, lightweight clothing. Layers are best, as temperatures can change. Avoid dark colors like black and blue, as they attract tsetse flies.
- Sturdy Footwear: Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential for the walking safari.
- Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are a must.
- Camera and Binoculars: Don’t forget a camera with a good zoom lens and extra memory cards. A pair of binoculars will greatly enhance your wildlife viewing.
- Snacks: While lunch is provided, it’s always a good idea to have a few snacks.
- Insect Repellent: Pack a good quality insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
- Passport: Have a copy of your passport with you, as it may be required at the park gate.