Arusha National Park

Welcome to Arusha National Park, a hidden gem located in the Arusha Region of Tanzania. This small yet diverse park covers the magnificent Mount Meru, a towering volcano with an impressive elevation of 4566 meters. As you explore the park, you will be greeted with stunning landscapes that are unique in three distinct areas.

To the west, the park boasts the Meru Crater, which channels the Jekukumia River. At the top of its rim, you will find the peak of Mount Meru, the second highest peak in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro, which is just 60 km away and provides a breathtaking backdrop to the views from the park to the east. The Ngurdoto Crater, located in the southeast, is a lush grassland area, and to the northeast, you will find the shallow and alkaline Momella Lakes, which are famous for their wading birds and varying algal colors.

Arusha National Park is situated on a 300-kilometer axis of Africa’s most famous national parks, running from Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in the west to Kilimanjaro National Park in the east. The park is just a few kilometers northeast of Arusha, and the main gate is only 25 km east of the city. If you’re coming from Moshi, it is 58 km away, and if you’re flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), it’s just 35 km away.

Despite its small size, Arusha National Park has a rich variety of wildlife. While you won’t find the same game-viewing experience as in other national parks in Tanzania’s northern circuit, you will still encounter numerous animals such as giraffes, Cape buffalos, zebras, warthogs, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, flamingos, elephants, bushbucks, and many other African animals. Leopard populations also reside in the park, though they are rarely seen. The forest is abundant with birdlife, and visitors have a better chance of spotting forest species here than anywhere else on the tourist route. Birders should keep an eye out for Narina trogons and bar-tailed trogons, while the range of starling species provides somewhat less gaudy interest.

In conclusion, Arusha National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Tanzania. With its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife diversity, and ease of access, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.