What is Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is a compact, biodiverse gem located in northern Tanzania, just 25 km northeast of Arusha city, making it ideal for a 1 day safari Arusha National Park. Covering 137 km², this park is a haven for wildlife, stunning landscapes, and Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak (4,566m). Unlike larger parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha National Park offers an intimate safari experience with fewer crowds, perfect for day trips and budget travelers planning a 2025/2026 adventure. Its proximity to Arusha makes it a top choice for those seeking an Arusha National Park tour before or after climbing Kilimanjaro.
Key features include Ngurdoto Crater, Momella Lakes, and lush montane forests, home to colobus monkeys, flamingos, and giraffes. Learn more about nearby destinations like Ngorongoro Crater at ngorongorocraternationalpark.com.
Fun Fact: Arusha National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania offering guided walking safaris and canoeing on Momella Lakes.
Where is Arusha National Park Located?
Arusha National Park Tanzania lies in the Arusha Region, at coordinates **3.25°S, 36.85°E**, just 25 km from Arusha city (45-minute drive) and 35 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). It’s part of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit, close to:
- Ngorongoro Crater: 180 km west (4–5 hours).
- Serengeti National Park: 325 km west (6–8 hours).
- Lake Manyara National Park: 120 km southwest (2 hours).
- Tarangire National Park: 140 km southwest (2.5 hours).
Its proximity to Arusha makes it perfect for an Arusha National Park day trip or as a starting point for multi-park safaris.
Wildlife and Attractions in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park boasts diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alkaline lakes, hosting unique wildlife and attractions:
| Attraction | Highlights | Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| Ngurdoto Crater | “Mini Ngorongoro,” lush forest rim, scenic views. | Buffalo, warthogs, colobus monkeys. |
| Momella Lakes | Seven alkaline lakes, ideal for canoeing. | Flamingos, waterfowl, hippos. |
| Mount Meru | 4,566m peak, hiking trails, panoramic views. | Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, giraffes. |
| Tululusia Waterfall | Scenic waterfall, hiking destination. | Forest birds, small antelopes. |
Key Wildlife: Giraffes, zebras, buffalo, leopards (rare), black-and-white colobus monkeys, and over 400 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans.
Note: No lions or rhinos, unlike Ngorongoro Crater, but the park’s intimacy and variety make it a standout for Arusha National Park safaris.
Arusha National Park Safari Costs
An Arusha National Park tour is budget-friendly, with costs for 2025/2026 depending on duration and accommodation:
| Safari Type | Cost (USD/Person) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Day Safari | $150–$300 | Park fees, 4×4 vehicle, guide, picnic lunch. |
| 2–3 Day Safari | $400–$800 | Park fees, accommodation, meals, 4×4, guide. |
| Walking/Canoeing Safari | $200–$400/day | Guide, ranger, park fees, equipment. |
Park Fees
- Adult Entry (Non-East African): $53.10/day.
- Child (5–15 years): $17.70/day; free for under 5.
- East African Citizens (16+): TZS 2,950/day.
- Note: Fees exclude 18% VAT, payable via credit card.
Additional Costs: Walking safari ($20–$50/person), canoeing ($30–$60/person), guide tips ($10–$20/day).
Tip: Group day trips (4–6 people) reduce costs by $50–$100/person.
Arusha National Park Lodges and Accommodation
Lodges in Arusha National Park and nearby areas cater to various budgets:
| Lodge Type | Examples | Cost (USD/Person/Night) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Camping | Public Campsites (e.g., Momella) | $10–$30 |
| Mid-Range Lodges | Hatari Lodge, Arusha Coffee Lodge | $100–$250 |
| Luxury Lodges | Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, Elewana Arusha | $300–$600+ |
Note: Many lodges are just outside the park in Usa River or Arusha city, 15–30 minutes away, offering easy access for day trips.
Recommendation: Stay at Hatari Lodge for a mid-range option with Mount Meru views or camp at Momella for an immersive experience.
Best Time for an Arusha National Park Safari
The park is accessible year-round, but seasons impact the experience:
- Dry Season (June–October): Clear trails, easier wildlife spotting (giraffes, zebras), vibrant Momella Lakes. Ideal for walking and canoeing.
- Wet Season (November–May): Lush greenery, abundant birdlife, fewer tourists, but muddy trails. Best for budget travelers.
- Shoulder Season (January–February): Moderate weather, good for photography, fewer crowds.
Recommendation: Visit in June–October for optimal conditions or January–February for a quieter Arusha National Park day trip.
Sample 1 Day Safari Arusha National Park Itinerary
A 1 day safari Arusha National Park is perfect for travelers short on time:
- 6:30 AM: Depart Arusha city (25 km, 45 minutes).
- 7:30 AM: Game drive through Ngurdoto Crater, spotting buffalo and warthogs.
- 10:00 AM: Guided walking safari near Mount Meru foothills (1–2 hours, $20–$50).
- 12:30 PM: Picnic lunch by Momella Lakes, watching flamingos.
- 2:00 PM: Canoeing on Small Momella Lake ($30–$60, optional).
- 4:00 PM: Game drive to spot colobus monkeys and giraffes.
- 5:30 PM: Return to Arusha (arrive ~6:15 PM).
Cost: $150–$300/person, including park fees, guide, and lunch.
Pro Tip: Start early (6:30 AM) to catch active wildlife and enjoy cooler temperatures for walking safaris.
Why Choose Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park stands out for:
- Proximity: Just 45 minutes from Arusha, ideal for day trips.
- Diverse Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and Mount Meru hiking.
- Unique Wildlife: Colobus monkeys, flamingos, and giraffes, not found in Ngorongoro Crater’s caldera.
- Budget-Friendly: Lower park fees ($53.10/day) and day trip costs ($150–$300) compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
Combine with: Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara National Park Arusha Tanzania for a 3–5 day Northern Circuit safari ($650–$3,500+/person).
Tips for Your Arusha National Park Safari
- Book Early: Reserve 3–6 months ahead for peak season (June–October) to secure guides and permits.
- Hire TANAPA Guides: Experts spot colobus monkeys in forests or flamingos at Momella Lakes.
- Pack Smart: Layers for cool mornings (10–15°C), sturdy shoes for walking safaris, binoculars for birds.
- Combine Parks: Add Ngorongoro or Serengeti for a richer experience (see ngorongorocraternationalpark.com).
- Opt for Day Trips: Perfect for time-constrained travelers or pre/post-Kilimanjaro climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Arusha National Park located?
25 km northeast of Arusha city, Tanzania, 45 minutes by road, near Mount Meru.
What wildlife is in Arusha National Park?
Giraffes, zebras, buffalo, colobus monkeys, flamingos, and over 400 bird species, but no lions or rhinos.
How much is an Arusha National Park safari?
$150–$300 for a 1-day safari; $400–$800 for 2–3 days, including fees and accommodation.
Are there lodges in Arusha National Park?
Yes, budget campsites ($10–$30/night) and mid-range/luxury lodges ($100–$600+/night) like Hatari Lodge.
Is a 1 day safari Arusha National Park worth it?
Yes, it’s ideal for short trips, offering game drives, walking safaris, and canoeing near Arusha.
Plan Your Arusha National Park Safari
Ready to explore Arusha National Park? Contact our safari experts to customize a day trip or multi-park adventure, including Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.
