Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s smallest but most scenic protected areas. Despite covering only 137 square kilometres, it boasts five distinct vegetation zones: a lush water forest with towering fig and mahogany trees, extensive marshlands, open grasslands, acacia-dotted parklands, and rugged scrubland along the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park offers a surprising variety of attractions, including the beautiful Ngurdoto Crater, the picturesque Momella Lakes, and the majestic Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest mountain.

Mount Meru

Mount Meru can be climbed relatively easily in a 4-day trek starting from Arusha. Trekkers overnight in the simple but comfortable Miriakamba Hut and Saddle Hut. Both huts have water and firewood, but you must bring your own food, cooking equipment, and sleeping bag.

Ngurdoto Crater

On the opposite side of the park lies the serene Ngurdoto Crater. There are no roads leading down into the crater, but several excellent viewpoints allow visitors to observe wildlife peacefully grazing on the crater floor below. This small, untouched paradise gives a glimpse of what the world might have looked like in its earliest days.

Wildlife

Arusha National Park was once famous for having the highest concentration of giraffes in the world. Unfortunately, due to increasing human settlement right up to the park boundaries and past poaching, giraffe numbers have declined significantly. Other animals commonly seen include buffaloes, waterbucks, and various antelopes. However, the dense forest makes spotting animals more challenging than in open savannah parks. Elephants and lions are present but rarely seen.The park is particularly special for primate lovers — it is the only place in Tanzania where you can see the beautiful black-and-white colobus monkeys (also known as guereza). Look out for their long, silky white tails hanging from the trees. These shy monkeys are best observed in silence.

Walking Safaris

Arusha National Park is the only park in the Northern Circuit where walking safaris are permitted, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the bush on foot with an armed ranger.Practical Information

• Distance from Arusha town to Momella Gate: approximately 55 km

• The roads inside the park are steep and can be slippery, so a reliable vehicle (preferably 4×4) is recommended.

• Special observation hides have been built for better wildlife viewing.

The park can be visited year-round. However, during the long rainy season (March and April), a 4×4 vehicle is essential for getting around comfortably.