Discover the beauty and diversity of Arusha National Park, a hidden gem nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, just a short drive from Arusha town. Despite being one of Tanzania’s smaller parks, it offers an incredible variety of landscapes — from lush montane forests and sparkling lakes to open savannah and dramatic volcanic craters.
Home to giraffes, buffalo, zebras, hippos, and a rich array of birdlife, Arusha National Park also provides the rare opportunity to enjoy both game drives and walking safaris accompanied by armed rangers. Visitors can admire the scenic Momela Lakes, the impressive Ngurdoto Crater, and the towering slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak.
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this day trip blends wildlife, adventure, and breathtaking scenery into a single unforgettable experience, offering a peaceful introduction to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
This tour is great for
Best Time to go
Tour Highlights
Day Experience
Morning
After breakfast at your hotel, depart from Arusha and drive to Arusha National Park, located just 40 minutes away. Upon arrival at the park gate, complete registration and begin your game drive through the forested foothills of Mount Meru. Keep an eye out for playful black-and-white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and buffalo grazing along the tracks. The fresh mountain air and lush greenery make for a refreshing start to your day. You may also visit Ngurdoto Crater, often called the “Little Ngorongoro,” for panoramic views of its forested slopes and grazing animals below.
Afternoon
Continue your exploration toward the Momela Lakes, famous for their shimmering colors and flocks of pink flamingos. Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at a scenic spot while watching zebras and giraffes wander nearby. After lunch, set out on a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger — a rare opportunity to experience the park on foot. Learn about animal tracks, local plants, and bird species as you walk through open plains and forested areas, with Mount Meru’s peak towering above.
Evening
After your walking safari, enjoy a leisurely drive back through the park, taking in the last glimpses of wildlife and the peaceful landscapes bathed in afternoon light. Exit the park and return to Arusha, arriving in the early evening. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or lodge, marking the end of an inspiring Arusha National Park Day Trip — a perfect mix of wildlife, nature, and adventure close to the city.
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