Arusha National Park is the most overlooked park on Tanzania’s northern circuit, and that is exactly why we like it. While everyone races towards the Serengeti, this small, green park sits quietly on the slopes of Mount Meru, roughly an hour’s drive from Arusha, full of giraffes, monkeys and views. An Arusha National Park day trip is the perfect first safari, the perfect last-day safari, and a very good excuse to see wildlife without spending half the day in a vehicle.
Why choose an Arusha National Park day trip?
- It is close. You can leave after breakfast and be back for a swim before dinner.
- It is different. Forest, crater, lakes and mountain in one park — nothing like the open plains further west.
- You can walk. It is one of the few northern parks where walking safaris with an armed ranger are allowed.
- It is calm. Fewer vehicles, quieter tracks and more time with each sighting.
What you can see in Arusha National Park
Think of the park as three landscapes stitched together.
The Momella lakes
A string of shallow, alkaline lakes, each a slightly different shade of green or blue depending on the algae. Depending on the season they attract flamingos, along with waders and waterbirds. Hippos keep to the deeper, fresher water.
Ngurdoto Crater
A forested volcanic crater with a swampy floor that is closed to visitors, which makes it a sanctuary. From the viewpoints on the rim you can look down on buffalo and warthogs grazing far below.
The forest and the slopes of Mount Meru
Mount Meru, at 4,566 metres, is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, and its lower slopes are covered in montane forest. Look up for black-and-white colobus monkeys — the ones with the dramatic capes — and blue monkeys. On the open glades you will find giraffes, zebras, buffalo and bushbuck. On a clear morning, Kilimanjaro appears on the eastern horizon.
Arusha National Park has no lions. Leopards live here but are rarely seen. If big cats are top of your list, pair this park with Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater or the Serengeti.
Things to do on your day trip
Game drive
The classic way to see the park: a loop past the Momella lakes, up to the Ngurdoto viewpoints and through the forest. Most of the park is easy to cover in a day.
Walking safari
Walk with an armed park ranger across the open grassland, often close enough to watch giraffes browsing without an engine running. It is a completely different way to experience the bush — slower, quieter and surprisingly thrilling.
Canoeing on Small Momella Lake
Where available, guided canoe trips glide past waterbirds and grazing animals on the shore. Ask when booking, as canoeing depends on water levels and operators.
Waterfall walks
Several forest trails lead to waterfalls and viewpoints on the lower slopes of Mount Meru — a good way to stretch your legs after a morning in the car.
A sample Arusha National Park day
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast at the hotel and pick-up by your driver-guide |
| 08:15 | Arrive at the park gate, pay fees and meet your ranger if walking |
| 08:30 | Game drive or walking safari across the glades |
| 11:30 | Ngurdoto Crater viewpoints |
| 13:00 | Picnic lunch by the Momella lakes |
| 14:00 | Canoeing, a waterfall walk or more game viewing |
| 16:30 | Drive back to Arusha, in time for the pool and sundowners |
Best time to visit and what to bring
The park is open all year. The dry months, roughly June to October, offer easier walking and clearer mountain views. The short rains usually arrive in November and the long rains from about March to May, when the forest is at its greenest and the tracks can get muddy.
- Layers and a light rain jacket — the forest is cool and mountain weather changes fast.
- Comfortable walking shoes if you plan to walk.
- Binoculars, for colobus monkeys high in the canopy.
- Sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.
Park fees change from time to time, so check the current rates on the Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website before you go.
How to book an Arusha National Park day trip from A1
Ask our tour desk the evening before. We arrange a vehicle and driver-guide, park fees and a ranger for walking, and the kitchen packs your lunch. Because A1 is on the western side of Arusha, allow a little more time for the drive across town, or leave just after the morning rush. See our other safaris and day trips, or ask us to plan it for you.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need for an Arusha National Park day trip?
One full day covers the main areas comfortably. A half day is possible, but you would have to choose between the lakes, the crater and a walk.
Is Arusha National Park worth visiting?
Yes, especially as a first or last safari. It offers forest, lakes, a crater and Mount Meru, with fewer vehicles than the big parks and the option to explore on foot.
Are there lions in Arusha National Park?
No. The park has no lions, and leopards are present but rarely seen. Visit for giraffes, buffalo, colobus monkeys, hippos and birds.
Can you do a walking safari in Arusha National Park?
Yes. Walking safaris are allowed with an armed park ranger, and they are one of the highlights of the park.
How far is Arusha National Park from Arusha town?
Roughly an hour’s drive, depending on traffic and which gate you use.
Planning a safari week? Start with our guide to things to do in Arusha before your safari, then book your stay.
