Complete Travel Guide to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, grassy savannas, and the stunning Momela Lakes. The park is also home to Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, offering breathtaking views and a diverse array of wildlife.
How to get in Arusha National Park
By Air
From Dar es Salaam (DAR): Several airlines, including Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, and Precision Air, offer daily flights to Arusha. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Nairobi (NBO): Flights from Nairobi to Arusha typically involve a stopover in Dar es Salaam, totalling around 3 to 5 hours of travel time. Airlines operating on this route include Kenya Airways, Coastal Aviation, and Precision Air.
From Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Located about 50 km from Arusha, JRO is the nearest international airport to the park. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer to reach the park, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
By road
From Arusha City: Arusha National Park is about 25 km east of Arusha City, approximately a 40-minute drive.
From Kilimanjaro International Airport: Approximately 35 km away, about a 40-minute drive
From Dar es Salaam: The journey covers around 620 km and takes approximately 11–12 hours by bus. Buses typically depart in the morning around 6:00 AM.
From Nairobi: A shuttle service operates between Nairobi and Arusha, taking about 6–6.5 hours, including border crossing formalities. Shuttles usually depart at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
By public Transport
Dala-Dalas: Shared minibuses (known as “dala-dalas”) are available in Arusha city. They are an affordable option, but may not be directly accessible to the park entrance. They can be crowded and less comfortable for tourists.
Private Transfers: For convenience and comfort, consider arranging a private taxi or transfer service. This allows for direct access to the park and a more personalized experience.
Best time to visit Arusha National Park
June to October (Dry Season)
Vegetation is thinner, making it easier to spot animals.Wildlife tends to gather around water sources—ideal conditions for game drives and walking safaris.
November to April (Wet Season)
Migratory birds from Europe and North Africa arrive. Lush greenery makes the park incredibly scenic. Great for photography and bird enthusiasts.
Wildlife Highlights in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is small compared to Tanzania’s larger reserves, but it’s incredibly biodiverse. Maasai giraffe, Blue Monkeys and Vervet Monkeys, Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys, Antelope Species, Warthogs.
Main Attractions in Arusha
1. Mount Meru
As Tanzania’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru offers a challenging 4–5 day trek to its summit. The route begins at Momella Gate, passing through lush forests and offering panoramic views. Climbing Mount Meru provides an excellent acclimatisation opportunity for those planning to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.
Ngurdoto Crater
Often referred to as “Little Ngorongoro,” this volcanic crater features a swampy floor surrounded by forested slopes. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and offers picturesque views, especially from the crater’s rim.
- Momella Lakes
The park boasts seven alkaline lakes: Big Momella, Small Momella, El Kekhotoito, Kusare, Rishateni, Lekandiro, and Tulusia. These lakes, formed from volcanic activity, exhibit varying hues due to their unique mineral composition. While animals don’t drink from these lakes, they are often seen grazing on their banks. Birdwatching is exceptional here, with flamingos and other species frequenting the area.
- Tululusia Waterfall
Located on the northeastern slopes of Mount Meru, this 28-meter waterfall is accessible via a scenic hike from Momella Gate. The trail meanders through lush forests, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as giraffes and buffalo. The waterfall provides a refreshing respite and is a highlight for many visitors.
- Fig Tree Arch
A natural arch formed by a massive strangler fig tree. A unique spot where your vehicle can drive through the trees.Popular for photos and short walking stops.
- Walking Safaris
One of the few Tanzanian parks where walking among wildlife is allowed. Walks are guided and safe, making them ideal for getting up close to giraffes, zebras, and warthogs. Great for families or nature lovers who want to experience the bush at a leisurely pace.
- Birdwatching
With over 400 species, the park is a top birding destination in East Africa. Migratory and resident birds are found around lakes, forests, and open plains.Best from November to April.
Activities in Arusha National Park
1. walking safari.
Unlike many other national parks in Tanzania, Arusha allows visitors to explore the park on foot with a trained ranger. This activity offers an intimate and immersive experience, allowing you to get close to animals such as giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and antelopes, and to appreciate the more minor details of the bush, including tracks, dung, and medicinal plants.
- Game drives ;
These are conducted in 4×4 safari vehicles and take you through the park’s diverse landscapes, including savannah, rainforest, and volcanic craters. Wildlife is abundant in certain areas, and while the park doesn’t have large predators like lions, you can expect to see buffalo, waterbuck, baboons, and plenty of birdlife. Drives around the Ngurdoto Crater and the Momella Lakes are particularly scenic.
- Canoeing on Momella Lake
This guided activity lets you glide across the calm alkaline waters, with flamingos and other waterbirds nearby, and wildlife grazing along the shoreline. It’s a serene and unique way to observe the park’s natural beauty from a different perspective.
Tanzania’s second-highest peak is at 4,566 meters. The trek takes about four to five days and offers a challenging but rewarding hike through multiple ecological zones. Along the way, trekkers often spot wildlife and enjoy stunning views, especially from the summit, where Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen on clear mornings.
- Tululusia Waterfall
A 28-meter cascade nestled in the lush forest. Reached by a short guided hike, the trail offers opportunities to see monkeys, bushbuck, and various bird species. It’s a great half-day activity that blends nature, relaxation, and light adventure.
- Birdwatching
It is exceptional in Arusha National Park, with over 400 species recorded. From the flamingos of the Momella Lakes to the turacos and hornbills in the forest, bird enthusiasts will find the park incredibly rewarding, particularly during the wet season when migratory birds are present.
- Picnicking and sightseeing
At various viewpoints in the park. With scenic backdrops like Mount Meru, the crater, and the lakes, these rest spots offer perfect opportunities to relax and take in the views while enjoying a packed lunch.
Accommodation Options in Arusha
Arusha has inside camps/bandas, which offer the advantage of early game drives and a deep wilderness feel. Additionally, outside camps and hotels are typically more budget-friendly or family-oriented. Offers easy access to the park, as well as cultural and community experiences.
Planning Your Safari Adventure
Starting your Ausha National Park safari adventure begins with a clear idea of what you want to experience. Whether it is spotting the Big Five or simply immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Africa, Arusha National Park offers something for every traveller. The next step is to choose the best time to visit, decide on your preferred accommodation and map out the perfect itinerary based on your interests.
At Kanuth Adventure Safari, we are here to guide you through every step of the planning process. Our team will help you select the best safari style, recommend ideal travel dates, and match you with accommodation that fits your budget and preferences. Ready to begin your Arusha National Park adventure? Contact us at or visit our website at www.kanuthadventures.com
