Tanzania's smallest national park, the Arusha National Park, covers just 52 square miles. To the west, the Jekukumia River runs through the Meru crater. To the southeast, the Ngurdoto crater is covered in pastures. The north-eastern Momella Lakes are home to many species of waders. Then there is Mount Meru, a 14,980-foot volcano located in the Arusha region, in the north of the country. The park is home to elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, mantled guerezas, blue monkeys, flamingos, and many other species.
Canoeing, walking safaris, and game drives are some of the best things to do here and make for the perfect start to any northern circuit safari. Situated just a short drive from Arusha and Moshi, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania's most convenient parks, making it a fantastic destination for a day trip. It serves as a great starting point or conclusion to any Tanzanian Safari itinerary.
Please take a look at our Arusha Park map to make your visit to the park easy and exciting. We have highlighted important landmarks, including Momella Lakes, Ngurduto Crater, and popular trails. You might choose to use it during your travel. It’ll help you explore the nooks and corners while making the most of your time in the park.
Due to its altitude (1300m), Arusha enjoys a temperate climate almost all year round. You can enjoy wildlife viewing year-round in Arusha National Park and surrounding regions, but the dry season from June to October is reckoned to be the best time when animals are easier to see as they congregate at rivers and waterholes. November to February provides good safari conditions. The wettest months are March, April, and May, although the rains do bring the benefit of greenery, which makes the landscape photogenic.
June to October
The climate is sunny, with little rain. This makes it easier to spot animals as they visit permanent water resources to quench their thirst.
November to May
Witness the luscious, beautiful scenery in the wet season. See the stunning views of Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru. Best for birding safaris.
Arusha National Park is home to the highest population of giraffes, which are often spotted walking in front of Mount Meru. There are troops of monkeys that usually swing between trees. Hippos, wallowing in Momella Lakes, are another common sight. Many forest-dwelling animals are encountered in northern Tanzania, including blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. Other animals that can be seen in the national park are bushbuck, Harvey’s red duiker, and suni. You won’t find the African Big Five except for buffalo and leopards. A few predators that can be spotted include hyenas, African wild cats, and servals. In addition, various bird species are available, including flamingos, grey-crowned cranes, malachite kingfishers, Abyssinian nightjars, jacanas, and African fish eagles.
The fantastic wildlife densities of Arusha National Park can be best viewed during game drives.
Take guided treks into nature’s heart to see animals and discover the park's hidden gems.
Glide across Momella Lakes to see hippos, flamingos, and beautiful reflections of Mount Meru.
Take on the challenge of climbing Tanzania's second-highest mountain, which has impressive views.
In addition to walking safaris and game drives, there are hundreds of other thrilling activities available to choose from. Acclimatizing for Mount Kilimanjaro may be accomplished very well by climbing Mount Meru. There are hardly any people on the path up Tanzania's second-highest peak, and there is a good chance that you may spot some animals along the journey. There are also other activities available, such as paddling on the Momela Lakes, mountain biking with a guide, and a half-day walk into Meru Crater, which is spectacular.
This part gives extensive answers to the most common queries people have concerning Tanzania's national parks. Our FAQs offer all you need to know about organizing your safari, getting in, activities, and animal highlights. This makes your trip easy, well-informed, and stress-free.
As we know, Arusha National Park is comparatively small in size. Hence, we only need a few days to visit all the highlights around the national park. A day or two is sufficient for taking part in game drives and guided walking safaris.
However, if you intend to hike Mount Meru, you’ll need at least four days.
Yes, there are accommodations inside the Arusha National Park. They can be campsites, rustic guest houses, hotels, lodges, or mountain accommodations. While some guests choose to stay within the national park, others opt to stay in the city of Arusha. There are plenty of accommodations available in the city, from which you can take a drive to the Arusha National Park.
Yes, day tour options are available. The proximity of the city to Arusha National Park makes it a fantastic day-trip destination. It is an excellent option to add a day trip to Arusha at the start and end of your journey.
Here at BestDay Safaris, we offer a 1 Day Arusha National Park Tour, which you can opt for either immediately after arriving in Arusha or just before departing for your home.
Yes, it is. Please don’t worry about your safety when visiting the national parks in Tanzania. These Tanzania Destinations are entirely safe for tourists. The only risk is from the animals in the park, which can be easily avoided when traveling with a guide. They will give you all the advice on how to behave when travelling to wildlife-rich destinations.
Our travel guide is made to save you time. It points you to the right parks, climbs, and activities, while sharing tips only locals know. Your dream Tanzania trip starts with good information, and we’ve put it all together for you.
Guests Remember UsWhen someone says a trip changed them, we listen. Many guests have written about moments that stayed long after they left, wildlife, culture, and friendships. Their voices give you a glimpse of the Tanzania we’re proud to show.
We made an extraordinary safari from Arusha of 4 days 3 nights with bestdaysafaris in August 2025 (Serenghetti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire) Our contact Xenia was exceptional and always available
Bestday Safaris designed this fantastic safari to meet our needs. There were eight of us, two families of friends, split between two jeeps with the fantastic guides Tuma and Emanuel.
These were days we will never forget. The organization by Bestdays Safari was flawless in every way.Yuna is a truly special person – she fulfilled every single request of mine.
We believe travel should never feel like a template. That’s why we design each safari or climb with you in mind. Whether you dream of quiet mornings by the crater rim or standing on Africa’s highest peak, we make it happen. Every route, lodge, and experience is chosen to fit your idea of perfect travel.
