Discover the compact yet diverse park that offers a complete safari experience in just one day
Located just 40 minutes from Arusha town, making it perfect for day trips and short safaris.
Home to Tanzania's second highest peak (4,566m) with stunning views and climbing opportunities.
Series of seven crater lakes offering spectacular scenery and excellent bird watching opportunities.
One of the few Tanzanian national parks where walking safaris are permitted with an armed ranger.
Over 400 bird species including flamingos, pelicans, and the colorful turacos.
Home to giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, monkeys, and occasional elephants and leopards.
40km from Arusha town
137 sq km (53 sq mi)
June-October, Jan-Feb
Moderate, cooler on slopes
400+ recorded species
Game drives, walking, canoeing
Discover the diverse animals that call this beautiful park home
Large herds of Masai giraffes are commonly seen grazing in the park's open grasslands.
Large herds of buffalo can be seen, especially around the Momella Lakes.
The alkaline Momella Lakes attract thousands of lesser flamingos, especially in dry season.
Troops of black and white colobus monkeys inhabit the park's montane forest areas.
Plains zebras can be seen grazing throughout the park, often in mixed herds with wildebeest.
Small pods of hippos inhabit the larger Momella Lakes, best viewed in early morning.
Choose from a variety of ways to explore Arusha National Park
Explore the park's diverse ecosystems in comfortable 4x4 safari vehicles
Game drives typically last 4-6 hours and cover the park's main attractions including Ngurdoto Crater, Momella Lakes, and the montane forest zone.
Experience the bush on foot with an armed park ranger
Walking safaris offer a completely different perspective on the African bush. You'll learn about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the smaller creatures often missed during game drives.
Paddle quietly to get close to water birds and hippos
Canoeing offers a peaceful way to explore the park's aquatic ecosystems. The morning hours are best for calm waters and optimal bird watching opportunities.
Over 400 species including migrants and endemics
Arusha National Park is a birder's paradise with habitats ranging from montane forest to alkaline lakes. The Momella Lakes are particularly rich in waterbird species.
Our most popular day trip package
Our guide picks you up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Briefing about the day's activities.
Enter Arusha National Park and begin morning game drive. Search for giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and monkeys.
Visit the scenic Momella Lakes for flamingo viewing and photographs with Mount Meru backdrop.
Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint with views of Mount Meru or the lakes.
Choose between continued game drive, walking safari (with ranger), or canoeing on the lakes.
Visit the viewpoint overlooking Ngurdoto Crater, often called "Little Ngorongoro."
Exit the park and drive back to your hotel, arriving around 5:00 PM.
Everything you need for a perfect day in Arusha National Park
All Arusha National Park entrance fees included for 24 hours.
Round-trip transport from Arusha/Moshi in 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof.
English-speaking driver/guide with extensive knowledge of the park.
Picnic lunch box with bottled water throughout the day.
Walking safari ranger fee ($20), canoeing ($30), or other optional extras.
Tips for guide and any additional staff (recommended $10-20 per person).
Souvenirs, personal purchases, or additional snacks/drinks.
Personal travel and medical insurance (required).
The perfect safari experience for those with limited time
Arusha National Park makes an excellent addition to any Northern Circuit safari. Many clients visit the park on their arrival or departure day in Arusha.
Explore Northern Circuit Safaris