Arusha National Park
Mount Meru's foothills, the Momela Lakes, and the giraffe-dense slopes of Ngurdoto Crater — all within an hour of town.
The Arusha National Park at a Glance
The scale and character of this destination, briefly.
An Arusha National Park Primer
Everything worth knowing before you visit.
A quiet, compact park that most safari itineraries skip — which is a shame, because it's one of the few northern parks where you can walk, canoe on the Momela Lakes, and see Mount Meru (Africa's fifth-highest peak) up close.
Perfect half-day on arrival or departure.
What You'll See
The species you can realistically expect in Arusha National Park — with honest context on season and where.
Inside Arusha National Park
The distinct areas and experiences within Arusha National Park.
Walking safari
The park allows guided walks with armed rangers — rare in Tanzania. You can walk up to the Ngurdoto Crater rim, through giraffe-rich bush, or along the Momela Lakes.
The Momela Lakes
Seven shallow alkaline lakes, each a slightly different mineral content and therefore a slightly different colour. Canoe-safari territory — a gentle paddle amongst hippo, waterbuck, and bird life.
Mt Meru
Arusha NP sits at the base of Meru, the second-tallest mountain in Tanzania and a demanding 4-day climb. Many climbers acclimatise here before Kilimanjaro.
Accommodations in Arusha National Park
From mid-range classics to ultra-luxury tented camps. Swipe to compare.
Premium
$340 / night
Historic lodge on the estate where the 1962 film 'Hatari!' was shot. Nine suites with fireplaces, stylish 1970s design, giraffe in the garden.
Premium
$285 / night
Twenty cottages around a volcanic crater lake. Perfect pre-safari base, canoeing on the lake, forest walks.
Mid-range
$180 / night
Functional mid-range lodge just outside the park gate. 28 rooms, restaurant, suitable for overnight visits before Meru or Kilimanjaro.
From the Field
A visual sample of what Arusha National Park offers.
What You'll Do
The experiences we build into every Arusha National Park itinerary.
Rare for Tanzania — this park allows guided walks with an armed ranger. Giraffe-rich bush, up to the Ngurdoto Crater rim.
Half-day
Paddle among seven shallow alkaline lakes. Hippo, waterbuck, flamingo. Rare East African canoe safari experience.
2–3 hours · $75ppWalk or drive to the rim of this forested mini-caldera. Buffalo, warthog, baboon. Classic 'little Ngorongoro' views.
MorningThe park sits at the foot of Africa's fifth-highest peak. Multiple viewpoints, photography opportunities, excellent for acclimatisation before a Kilimanjaro climb.
Full dayWhen to Visit Arusha National Park
Year-round. Great for short trips.
Practical Details
The key info for fitting this destination into your trip.