Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a mosaic of different landscapes, each with its own character and wildlife. The park's three most prominent features define its incredible diversity:

Mount Meru: The park is dominated by Mount Meru, Africa's fifth-highest peak. This dormant volcano is a popular trekking destination in its own right and serves as a fantastic acclimatization climb for those preparing for Kilimanjaro. Its slopes are covered in lush rainforests, home to the park's rich biodiversity.

The Ngurdoto Crater: Often called "Little Ngorongoro," this is a stunning volcanic caldera with a swampy, flat floor. You can view the crater from several scenic viewpoints, where you'll often spot herds of buffalo, zebras, and warthogs grazing on the marshy plains.

The Momella Lakes: These seven shallow alkaline lakes are fed by underground streams and are a haven for water birds. Depending on the season, the lakes can be a vibrant pink, thanks to thousands of Lesser Flamingos. They are also home to large numbers of hippos and other water-loving animals.

What sets Arusha National Park apart is the range of activities it offers, which are a refreshing change from the traditional vehicle-based safari. At Kilimanjaro Escapes, we tailor your experience to let you truly immerse yourself in the environment.

Walking Safaris: Accompanied by an armed park ranger, a walking safari allows you to experience the African bush up close and personal. Without the rumble of a safari vehicle, you can hear the sounds of nature, follow animal tracks, and get an entirely new perspective on the wildlife, from graceful giraffes to curious monkeys.

Canoe Safaris: Paddle silently across the tranquil waters of the Momella Lakes for a unique safari experience. This offers an incredible perspective on the birdlife and is an excellent way to get close to hippos, buffaloes, and other animals that come to the water's edge.

Mount Meru Climbing: For those looking for an additional challenge, we can organize a climb of Mount Meru. A climb of this beautiful volcano not only offers stunning panoramic views but also serves as an excellent way to acclimatize before tackling Kilimanjaro, often leading to a higher summit success rate.

While the park is not known for its large predators, it is a spectacular place to spot a variety of other wildlife. It is particularly famous for having one of the highest concentrations of giraffes in Tanzania, providing incredible photo opportunities. The park's forests are also the only place on the Northern Safari Circuit where you can easily spot the rare and beautiful black-and-white colobus monkey. Other commonly sighted animals include elephants, Cape buffalo, zebras, warthogs, and various antelope species.

Let Kilimanjaro Escapes transform your Tanzanian journey with a visit to Arusha National Park. It's the perfect way to begin your adventure or celebrate your accomplishment, offering a unique blend of nature, activity, and stunning scenery.