Arusha National Park
Description
Arusha National Park is one of the smallest national parks in the northern Arusha part of Tanzania, measuring 552 sq km (212 sq miles). The park is small but varied with spectacular landscapes in three distinct areas. In the west, the Meru Crater funnels the Jekukumia River, the peak of Mount Meru lies on its rim and Ngurdoto Crater in the southeast is mostly grassland. The shallow alkaline Momella Lakes in the northeast show varying algal colours and are known for their wading birds.
The closest national park to Arusha town – northern Tanzania’s safari capital –is Arusha National Park, a multi-faceted jewel, often overlooked by safari goers, despite offering the opportunity to explore a beguiling diversity of habitats within a few hours.
When to Visit
One of the best times to visit this protected wildlife sanctuary is during the region’s dry season (from June to October). Arusha Park is an excellent all-year-round bird viewing hotspot though, mainly from November all the way to April when the long-distance migratory birds are in the area. Some of these birds will fly from as far as North Africa and Europe to breed in this enchanting land.
To climb Mt Meru: June-February although it may rain in November.
| 3 Day | Max People : 10 | Best time to visit |
| Min Age : | Pickup : Airport | Langauge - English & Swahili |
Departure & Return Location
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
Accomodation
5 Star Hotel
Price Includes
- Air Fares
- 2 Nights Hotel Accomodation
- Tour Guide
- Entrance Fees
- Guide Service Fee
- Driver Service Fee
- Room Service Fees
What to Expect
The park is dotted with an abundance of unique mammal species such as African elephants, Cape buffalos, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and even the camera-shy wildebeests. Leopard populations are present but rarely seen in that particular park. Getting up close and personal to these incredible mammals is easy, as guided canoe trips and walking safari packages are readily available at the park. What’s more, Arusha’s unmatched variety of fascinating landscapes includes an extensive open savanna that later gives way to a patch of acacia scrubland before finally culminating in a lush rainforest. The alpine conditions on the lofty sides of the majestic Mt Meru only add to the picturesque backdrop of this national park. Birdlife in the forest is prolific, with many forest species more easily seen here than elsewhere on the tourist route – Narina trogons and bar-tailed trogons are both possible highlights for visiting birders.
Day 1 - Airport Pickup to Hotel
The park is just a few kilometres northeast of Arusha, though the main gate is 25 km east of the city. It is located 58 km from Moshi and 35 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
Day 2 - Bird watching
Over 400 bird species are counted in this national park. For those who love bird watching do not miss out on this incredible park, as it will reward you with a great birding experience
Day 2 - Hiking
Climbing Mt. Meru or enjoying the smaller trails that cross its lower slopes is a popular activity for visitors to Arusha National Park. The three-day trek to reach the crateru2019s summit is quieter, and some say more challenging alternative than the famous peak of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro. The paths to rivers and waterfalls along the lower slopes create a relaxing day hike for visitors who donu2019t want to attempt the rather adventurous climb. Ancient fig tree forests, crystal clear waters cascading from mountain streams, and a chance to spot colobus monkeys are the attractions and pleasures of Arusha National Park.
Day 2 - Canoe safari
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic canoeing safari following the shorelines of small Momella Lake. On this 2- 2.5 hours canoe safari, you can view buffaloes, bushbuck, giraffes, hippos and many water birds living in and close to the water.
Day 2 - Walking safaris
Due to the low numbers of predators in the park, walking safaris are permitted. This is a must for anyone wanting to get a closer look at the moss-covered trees and the occasional red-hot pokers as well as for those wanting to get up closer to wildlife. Most common sightings whilst on a walking safari include buffaloes, warthogs, giraffes and a variety of birds such as the silvery-cheeked hornbill, little bee-eater and the occasional long-crested eagle. The walk takes visitors to the refreshing Tululusia waterfalls and back to the Momella gate.
Day 2 - Game viewing
It is a popular destination for day trip visitors who are about to embark from the town of Arusha on longer northern circuit safaris. The small national park includes slopes, the summit, and the ash cone of Mt. Meru, the Momela Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater. The lush highland forests blanket its lower slopes. Game viewing around the Momela Lakes is at a laid-back and quiet pace, and while passing through the forest many visitors stop to search for troupes of rare colobus monkeys playing in the canopies.
Day 9 - Airport & Departure
The park is just a few kilometres northeast of Arusha, though the main gate is 25 km east of the city. It is located 58 km from Moshi and 35 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA).
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