Arusha National Park
Where rainforest, flamingos and Mount Meru
create the perfect safari start
Experience Tanzania’s “little gem” just under an hour from Kilimanjaro Airport: lush green slopes, the Momella Lakes and walking safaris. An ideal, peaceful start to your Tanzania safari before the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire or Serengeti National Park.
Why Arusha National Park is so unique
Green, peaceful—and surprisingly diverse
On the way in, you’ll already feel it: dense greenery, coffee plantations, ferns and orchids, framed by the Mount Meru massif.
It’s a calm, scenic park that many itineraries skip—yet it’s one of the best places to ease into safari mode.
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Rainforest & Momella Lakes: monkeys and flamingos
A safari here moves from lush montane forest to the alkaline Momella Lakes, where flamingos are often seen.
Wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, hippos—and especially the acrobatic black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Mount Meru, craters—and walking safaris
Mount Meru (4,566 m) dominates the landscape and is a fantastic trekking option (and a great acclimatisation step before Kilimanjaro).
Add viewpoints over Ngurdoto Crater and one of the park’s standout experiences: guided walking safaris, for example towards the Tululusia Waterfall.
Highlights of Arusha National Park
Rainforest, crater and Mount Meru views — these highlights deliver Arusha National Park’s most memorable safari moments.
Momella Lakes & flamingos
he famous alkaline lakes are a key feeding ground for waterbirds. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot flamingos—and often giraffes or buffalo nearby.
Momella Lakes & flamingos
Rainforest & colobus monkeys
Arusha is one of the best places in northern
Tanzania to see colobus monkeys easily. The forest setting feels almost tropical and is beautifully photogenic.
Rainforest & Colobus monkeys
Little Serengeti
Open grassland where animals are easy to spot:
zebra, giraffe, buffalo, warthog and more—perfect for relaxed viewing.
Little Serengeti
Ngurdoto & Meru Craters
Ngurdoto is often described as a miniature
Ngorongoro, with multiple lookouts. On clear days, you may even catch views towards Kilimanjaro.
Ngurdoto & Meru Craters
Tululusia Hill & Waterfall
A true “lookout point” with wide views across the
park. The waterfall drops through a steep gorge— great for short hikes and nature photos.
Tululusia Hill & Waterfall
Mount Meru trek (3–4 days)
A classic hut-based hike crossing several vegetation zones. Expect wildlife en route and unforgettable sunrise moments—especially in the clearer months.
Mount Meru trek (3–4 days)
Best time to visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round. For the best safari conditions and clearer views, the drier months are ideal.
Best time to climb Mount Meru: June – February (rain is possible in November). December – February often offers the clearest Kilimanjaro views
Our suggestions for your
Arusha National Park safari
Our suggestions – tailored to your travel style:
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Instant safari vibes without long transfers 1)
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More than game drives: walking safaris and/or a Mount Meru trek 2)
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Pure variety: combine forest, lakes, craters and savannah 3)
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For couples & families: northern adventure plus beach relaxation 4)
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Helpful tips for safaris in Tarangire National Park
A safari in Tarangire National Park is an exciting experience – especially if it’s your first time. With these tips, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy your adventure.
What to Pack
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Neutral-colored clothing
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Lightweight layers for changing temperatures
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Comfortable closed shoes
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Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
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Binoculars and a camera with zoom lens
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Insect repellent and sunscreen
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Soft duffel bags instead of suitcases
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A Type G, D travel adapter
What to Expect
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Walking safaris – with ranger
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Game drives early in the morning and in the afternoon – on request
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A cooler, greener atmosphere than in many classic savannah parks
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Canoeing on the Momella Lakes available with prior arrangement
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Short transfer times – perfect for your first “safari day” after arrival*
Learn more here
Entry Requirements
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Tourist visa required, e-Visa recommended
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Yellow fever vaccination if arriving from risk areas or transit > 12 h
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Passport valid at least 6 months beyond entry date
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Proof of return or onward ticket required
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Import/export of Tanzanian shilling (TZS) prohibited
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Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared
Frequently Asked Questions about a
Arusha National Park safari
Arusha is rarely the first name that comes to mind — here are the key questions, from length of stay and wildlife sightings to how it fits into your itinerary.
1. How many days should I plan for Arusha National Park?
A day trip already works well. For a more relaxed pace (walking safari + lakes), 1–2 nights are ideal. For Mount Meru, plan 3–4 days.
2. Is Arusha National Park suitable for children?
Yes—especially because driving distances are short.
3. Which animals can I reliably expect to see?
Common sightings include giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, baboons and colobus monkeys. Around the lakes you’ll often see flamingos and many waterbirds.
4. How is a safari in Arusha different from other parks?
It’s greener and more varied on a small area: rainforest, lakes, craters and a big mountain backdrop—plus walking safaris and canoeing, which many parks don’t offer.
5. What kind of accommodation is available?
Most guests stay in lodges or tented camps around Arusha / Mount Meru. Because the park is close, it’s also perfect as a day trip base.
6. How does Arusha fit best into a safari itinerary?
It’s a brilliant first stop: from Arusha town it’s about 35 minutes to the park. From there, it’s roughly 2.5 hours to Tarangire/Lake Manyara, 3 hours to Ngorongoro, and about 5 hours to Serengeti (or a direct flight).