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.
Safaris That Include Arusha National Park
Our signature trips that feature Arusha National Park on the itinerary.
Roof of Africa
Eight days to Uhuru Peak via the scenic Lemosho route. 90% summit success rate.
Walking Wild
Off the vehicle and into the landscape. Armed-ranger walks in Tanzania's wilder corners.
Mount Meru
Tanzania's second-highest peak at 4,566m. A demanding four-day climb — and the best possible Kilimanjaro prep.