Arusha National Park safari
EXPLORE A ENCHANTING DIVERSITY OF HABITATS
FOREST WALKS, NUMEROUS PICNIC SITES, MOUNTAIN CLIMBS
Arusha National Park safari
The closest national park to Arusha Town. Arusha National Park is often overlooked by safari-goers. But it is a multi-faceted jewel. Offering you the opportunity to explore a diversity of habitats within a few hours.
The entrance gate leads into mountain forest inhabited by curious blue monkeys and colorful birds. This is the place where the acrobatic black-and-white colobus monkey is easily seen. In the midst of the forest stands the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater. Whose steep, rocky cliffs enclose a wide marshy floor with herds of buffalo and warthog.
Momela Lakes
Further north, grassy hills embrace the tranquil beauty of the Momela Lakes. Each one a different hue of green or blue. Some parts are colored pink with thousands of flamingos. The lakes support a rich selection of resident and migrant waterbirds. Giraffes walk between grazing zebra herds. While pairs of wide-eyed dik-dik dart into the scrubby bush.
Although elephants are uncommon in Arusha National Park. And lions are absent altogether. Leopards and spotted hyenas may be seen moving around in the early morning and late afternoon. It is also at dusk and dawn that the clouds are most likely to clear, revealing the majestic snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro, only 50km (30 miles) distant.
Mount Meru
But it is Kilimanjaro’s cousin, Mount Meru that dominates the park’s horizon. It is the fifth highest mountain in Africa at 4.566 meters (14.990 feet). Its peaks and eastern foot slopes are in Arusha National park. Mount Meru offers unique views of its famous neighbour. While also forming a rewarding hiking destination in its own right.
HOW TO GET THERE
An easy 40-minute drive from Arusha. Approximately 60 km (35 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The lakes, forest and Ngurdoto Crater can all be visited in the course of a half-day outing at the beginning or end of an extended northern safari.
WHAT TO DO
Forest walks, numerous picnic sites; three- or four-day Mt Meru climb – good acclimatisation for Kilimanjaro.
WHEN TO GO
When To Go To climb Mt Meru, June-February although it may rain in November. Best views of Kilimanjaro December-February.
SIZE
137 sq km (53 sq miles).
ACCOMMODATION
A lodge, two rest houses, camp sites, two mountain huts inside the park; two lodges at Usa River outside the park and many hotels and hostels in Arusha town.
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