Comprehensive Travel Guide to Arusha National Park, Tanzania
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania's most scenic and diverse national parks. Despite its relatively small size of 137 square kilometers, the park offers an incredible variety of landscapes, including savannah, swamps, lakes, rainforest, and volcanic craters. It's located just 35 kilometers from Arusha city, making it a popular destination for day trips or short safaris. The park is known for its stunning views of Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, and is an excellent place for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and hiking.
Arusha National Park serves as a gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, which includes famous destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Kilimanjaro. However, it stands out on its own due to its diverse ecosystem and the unique experiences it offers.
Table of Contents
How to get to Arusha National Park
Getting There
By Air
-Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): The closest major airport, located about 60 kilometers from the park. It serves both international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers heading to Arusha National Park.
-Arusha Airport (ARK): A smaller airport located about 30 kilometers from the park. It primarily handles domestic flights and is ideal for travelers coming from other parts of Tanzania.
By Road
The park is easily accessible by road from Arusha city. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes via a well-paved road, making it an excellent option for a day trip. If you’re staying in Arusha or nearby, you can hire a taxi or arrange transportation through your hotel or a local tour operator.
By Public Transport
Public buses and minibusses (dala-dalas) run from Arusha to Momella Gate, the main entrance to the park. However, this option is less comfortable and may require additional arrangements to get from the drop-off point to the park itself.
Best Time to Visit
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests.
Dry Season (June to October)
-Wildlife Viewing: This is the best time for spotting animals, as they tend to gather around water sources. The vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife.
-Weather: The weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and little to no rainfall, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities.
-Mount Meru Hiking: The dry season offers the best conditions for climbing Mount Meru, with fewer chances of rain and clear views of the surrounding landscapes and Kilimanjaro.
Wet Season (November to May)
-Birdwatching: The wet season is the best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive, and the park’s resident bird species become more active. The park's lush, green landscapes during this time also add to the beauty.
-Scenery: The park is at its most scenic, with green vegetation and blooming flowers. The waterfalls and streams are also more vigorous during this period.
-Wildlife Viewing: While animals are more dispersed due to the abundance of water, the park still offers good wildlife sightings.
Key Attractions
Mount Meru
-Height and Significance: Standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth-highest in Africa. It’s a dormant stratovolcano that offers a challenging yet rewarding climb.
-Hiking: The ascent of Mount Meru is a three to four-day trek that takes you through several ecological zones, from savannah and rainforest to alpine desert. The summit offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains. The trek is less crowded compared to Kilimanjaro, providing a more serene experience.
-Wildlife on the Trails: Unlike Kilimanjaro, the lower slopes of Mount Meru are home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes, adding a unique element to the hike.
Momella Lakes
A series of shallow alkaline lakes located in the northeastern part of the park. These lakes are a significant attraction for both wildlife and tourists.
-Birdwatching: The lakes are a haven for birdlife, especially flamingos, which flock to the area in large numbers. Other waterbirds such as pelicans, herons, and Egyptian geese are also commonly seen.
-Canoeing: Canoeing safaris on the Momella Lakes offer a peaceful way to observe the park’s wildlife. You can paddle alongside hippos and birds, offering a unique perspective on the park.
Ngurdoto Crater
Often referred to as "Little Ngorongoro," Ngurdoto Crater is a volcanic crater about 3 kilometers wide, located in the southern part of the park.
-Wildlife: The crater floor is covered with swamp and grassland, making it a prime location for spotting buffaloes, warthogs, and a variety of birds. Although descending into the crater is not allowed, the rim offers excellent views and photo opportunities.
Scenic Views: The surrounding forest is home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, adding to the charm of this area.
Tululusia Hill
-Hiking and Views: Tululusia Hill is a popular spot for hiking and offers panoramic views of the park, including Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. The hike is relatively easy and can be completed in a few hours.
-Birdwatching: The forest around Tululusia Hill is rich in birdlife, making it a great spot for birdwatchers. The hill also offers opportunities to spot smaller wildlife, such as bushbucks and monkeys.
Waterfalls
-Tululusia Waterfall: This is one of the park’s hidden gems, located deep within the forest. The waterfall can be reached via a short hike, and the area around it is lush and tranquil.
-Other Waterfalls: There are several smaller waterfalls within the park, which are especially beautiful during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
Arusha National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats.
Mammals
-Giraffes: Arusha National Park is known for having one of the highest densities of giraffes in the world.
Zebras and Buffaloes: These are commonly seen grazing in the park’s open grasslands.
-Elephants: While less common than in other parks, elephants can still be spotted, particularly in the Ngurdoto Crater area.
-Primates: The park is famous for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, which are often seen swinging through the trees. Blue monkeys and baboons are also common.
Other animals include warthogs, bushbucks, waterbucks, and occasionally leopards.
Birdlife
-Diversity: With over 400 bird species recorded, Arusha National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The diverse habitats support a wide variety of birds, from waterfowl to forest dwellers.
-Notable Species: Some of the notable birds include trogons, turacos, hornbills, flamingos, and various species of raptors. Migratory birds are also present during the wet season.
Activities
Game Drives
A traditional game drive is the best way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife. The park’s roads are well-maintained, making it easy to navigate.
-Duration: Game drives typically last a few hours, depending on your interests and how much time you want to spend observing wildlife.
Walking Safaris
-Guided Tours: Arusha National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania where you can go on a walking safari. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you can explore the park on foot, getting up close to wildlife and learning about the smaller details of the ecosystem.
-Safety and Experience: Walking safaris provide a thrilling and immersive experience, but safety is a priority. The ranger ensures that you maintain a safe distance from potentially dangerous animals.
Canoeing Safaris
-Unique Perspective: Canoeing on the Momella Lakes allows you to glide quietly across the water, getting close to animals like hippos and waterbirds without disturbing them.
-Relaxing Adventure: This is a relaxing way to experience the park’s wildlife and scenery, offering a different perspective than a traditional game drive.
Mount Meru Trekking
-Adventure: The Mount Meru trek is a challenging adventure that takes you through various ecological zones, from dense rainforest to alpine desert. The hike is often used as an acclimatization climb for those planning to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.
-Preparation: The trek requires a good level of fitness and preparation, as it involves steep ascents and high altitudes. However, the rewards are worth the effort, with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
Hiking Trails
-Short Trails: For those not interested in climbing Mount Meru, the park offers several shorter hiking trails. These range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes and can be completed in a few hours.
-Flora and Fauna: The hikes take you through different habitats, offering opportunities to see a variety of flora and fauna. Guided hikes are available and recommended for those unfamiliar with the terrain.
Accommodation
Inside the Park
-Momella Wildlife Lodge: A historic lodge located within the park, offering comfortable accommodation and stunning views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. The lodge is a great base for exploring the park and enjoying its tranquility.
-Campsites: There are several basic campsites within the park, offering a more rustic and immersive experience. Camping allows you to experience the park’s wildlife and sounds up close, especially at night.
Outside the Park
-Arusha City: Many visitors choose to stay in Arusha city, which offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. Staying in the city allows easy access to the park for day trips while also providing access to other amenities and attractions.
-Lodges and Hotels: Several lodges and hotels are located near the park’s entrance, offering a balance between convenience and comfort. These accommodations often provide guided tours and transportation to the park.
Travel Tips to Arusha National Park
What to Pack
-Clothing: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime, but bring layers for early mornings and evenings, as temperatures can drop. If you plan to hike, sturdy walking shoes are essential.
-Accessories: Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. A good pair of binoculars is also recommended for birdwatching and spotting distant wildlife.
-Camera: Arusha National Park is incredibly photogenic, so bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
What to Pack
Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, especially if you’re interested in learning about the park’s flora, fauna, and history. Guides can also help spot wildlife that you might otherwise miss.