Arusha National Park
A compact highland gem at the foot of Mount Meru — lush forests, crater lakes, and colobus monkeys just 40 minutes from Arusha city.
Arusha National Park is a small but remarkably diverse park nestled between the peaks of Mount Meru (4,566m) and Mount Kilimanjaro. At just 552 square kilometres, it is one of Tanzania's most accessible parks — only 40 minutes from Arusha city — yet offers a strikingly different landscape from the savannah parks of the Northern Circuit.
The park encompasses three distinct areas: the alkaline Momela Lakes with their resident flamingos and waterfowl, the lush Ngurdoto Crater (a miniature Ngorongoro often called "Little Ngorongoro"), and the montane forest and alpine zones of Mount Meru itself.
Arusha National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris and canoe safaris are permitted, offering intimate wildlife encounters impossible from a vehicle. Paddling a canoe on the Momela Lakes with hippos, flamingos, and Mount Meru reflected in the water is an unforgettable experience.
For visitors with limited time or those seeking a gentle introduction to the Tanzanian bush before heading to the larger parks, Arusha National Park is the perfect starting point.
Safari Tours in Arusha National Park
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Arusha National Park can be included in any of our tailor-made safari itineraries. Tell us your dates and interests, and our team will design the perfect trip.
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Arusha National Park is home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, olive baboons, and bushbuck in its montane forests. Giraffe, buffalo, warthog, and zebra inhabit the grasslands around Ngurdoto Crater and the Momela Lakes.
The park does not have large predators (no lion or leopard), making it safe for walking safaris. Over 400 bird species have been recorded. The Momela Lakes attract flamingos, pelicans, and a variety of waterfowl. The forest birdlife includes trogons, turacos, and African olive pigeons.
How to Get There
Arusha National Park is the most accessible park in the Northern Circuit — just 25km from Arusha city and 58km from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. No flights are needed; it is easily visited as a day trip or half-day excursion.
Park Fees & Regulations
Park entry fees are $53.10 per adult per 24 hours (non-resident). Walking safari and canoe safari fees apply separately. The Mount Meru climb requires separate climbing permits and fees.