Scenic view of Arusha National Park with Mount Meru

Arusha National Park

Established in 1960, Arusha National Park is Tanzania's most accessible safari destination, located just 40km from Arusha city. Despite its small size (137 sq km), it boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes - from the rugged Mount Meru to the Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater.

Unique Features

Arusha is one of few Tanzanian parks that allows walking safaris, offering a thrilling ground-level perspective of wildlife. It's also home to the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys and stunning flocks of flamingos at Momella Lakes.

Safari Highlights

Your day of wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes

Game Drives

Explore diverse habitats from open-top vehicles, spotting giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and elephants with Mount Meru as your backdrop.

Game drive in Arusha National Park

Walking Safari

Guided bush walk with armed ranger for close encounters with smaller wildlife and immersive nature experience.

Walking safari in Arusha National Park

Momella Lakes

Alkaline lakes home to hippos and seasonal flocks of flamingos, with stunning reflections of Mount Meru.

Momella Lakes in Arusha National Park

Detailed Itinerary

06:30 AM - Pick-up from Moshi

Early morning collection from your Moshi hotel for the scenic 1.5-hour drive to Arusha National Park. Enjoy breakfast snacks during the journey.

08:30 AM - Ngurdoto Crater Wildlife Viewing

Arrive at the park and begin with wildlife viewing at the stunning Ngurdoto Crater, often called "Little Ngorongoro." Spot buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.

10:00 AM - Walking Safari

Experience the thrill of a walking safari with an armed ranger near Momella Gate. Get close to nature and learn about smaller flora and fauna often missed during game drives.

12:00 PM - Scenic Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch at a picturesque spot within the park, possibly with views of Mount Meru or the Momella Lakes. Watch for nearby wildlife while you eat.

01:00 PM - Afternoon Game Drive

Explore more of the park's diverse habitats. Search for hippos in the lakes, troops of colobus monkeys in the forests, and elephants in the grasslands.

03:30 PM - Begin Return Journey

Depart the park and begin the drive back to Moshi, arriving by approximately 5:30 PM. Share stories of your wildlife sightings from the day.

Pricing Options

From $200 to $450 per person

1 Person

$450

  • Private safari vehicle
  • Personalized itinerary
POPULAR

2-5 Persons

$250/person

  • Shared safari vehicle
  • Great for small groups

6+ Persons

$200/person

  • Best value
  • Ideal for large groups
Book Your Safari Now

Select your group size during booking

All Options Include

  • All national park entry fees
  • Professional safari guide
  • Walking safari with armed ranger
  • Packed lunch and bottled water

Safari FAQs

Answers to common questions about this safari experience

What wildlife might we see?

Arusha NP is home to diverse species:

  • Giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and elephants
  • Black-and-white colobus monkeys
  • Hippos and flamingos at Momella Lakes
  • Over 400 bird species

Note: While present, lions and leopards are rarely seen in this park

Is the walking safari safe?

The walking safari is conducted with strict safety measures:

  • Led by experienced, armed rangers
  • Follows designated safe routes
  • Maintains safe distance from large animals
  • Small group sizes for better control

Participants must follow all guide instructions for safety

When is the best time to visit?

Arusha NP can be visited year-round but seasons vary:

Dry Season

June-October: Best wildlife viewing

Wet Season

Nov-May: Lush scenery, fewer visitors

Mornings are typically clearer for Mount Meru views

What should we bring?

Essential safari items:

Clothing

Neutral colors, layers for warmth

Equipment

Binoculars, camera, sunscreen

Don't forget extra camera batteries and memory cards!