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Arusha Overview

Arusha National Park, a hidden gem nestled in the shadow of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, is located just a short drive from the city of Arusha, the safari capital of northern Tanzania. The park covers an area of about 552 square kilometers (213 square miles), offering a compact but diverse safari experience, distinct from the vast savannahs of Tanzania’s more famous parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Despite its smaller size, Arusha National Park boasts a remarkable variety of ecosystems and landscapes, ranging from the lush montane forests at the lower reaches of Mount Meru to the alpine desert near its summit, and from tranquil alkaline Momella Lakes, tinged with shades of green and blue, to the grassy savannahs and rolling hills. This diversity of habitats supports an equally diverse array of wildlife and flora.

The park is renowned for its birdlife, with over 400 species recorded, making it a paradise for bird watchers. While it may not host large populations of big game like its neighboring parks, Arusha National Park offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including the chance to see black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species. The elusive leopard and spotted hyenas are also present, though sightings are rare.

Arusha National Park is also home to several beautiful features, including the Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as a miniature Ngorongoro, and the Momella Lakes, known for their flamingo populations. The park’s centerpiece, Mount Meru, provides a challenging and scenic trekking opportunity, with its slopes offering spectacular views over the savannah below and towards Kilimanjaro in the distance.

With its close proximity to Arusha city, the park is an ideal day-trip destination for those looking to experience Tanzania’s wild beauty without venturing too far from the comforts of the city. Whether for a day hike, a canoe trip on the Momella Lakes, or a game drive through its varied landscapes, Arusha National Park offers a serene and picturesque introduction to the wonders of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

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Park Map
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Arusha National Park Highlights

Predators

Arusha National Park is home to a diverse array of predator species, vital for maintaining the park’s ecological balance. These predators play a crucial role in regulating herbivore populations and ensuring overall ecosystem health.

Leopard: Agile and elusive, leopards are solitary hunters known for their stealth and strength. They stalk their prey with precision, relying on camouflage and ambush tactics to secure their meals.

African Golden Cat: A rare and elusive feline, the African golden cat is known for its striking coat and elusive nature. It hunts small mammals and birds in the dense forest undergrowth.

African Civet: Nocturnal and omnivorous, African civets are skilled hunters and scavengers. With sharp claws and teeth, they prey on small mammals, birds, insects, and fruits, playing a vital role in the ecosystem.

Towering majestically above Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak, reaching an elevation of 14,977 feet (4,565 meters). This dormant stratovolcano offers a thrilling challenge for adventurous trekkers seeking a less crowded alternative to nearby Kilimanjaro.

With its rugged terrain, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking vistas, Mount Meru promises an unforgettable climbing experience. The ascent typically takes three to four days, leading hikers through lush montane forests, alpine meadows, and rocky slopes adorned with endemic flora and fauna.

Along the way, trekkers may encounter wildlife such as buffalo, giraffe, and colobus monkeys, adding to the allure of the journey.

From the summit, adventurers are rewarded with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape, making Mount Meru a highlight not to be missed in Arusha National Park.

Arusha National Park Pictures

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Engaging Arusha

Embark on exhilarating game drives through Arusha National Park to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The park’s scenic landscapes and volcanic features create a picturesque backdrop for wildlife viewing.

Scale the slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, for an adventurous trekking experience. The climb offers stunning vistas of the surrounding wilderness and provides an opportunity to spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys and buffalo along the way.

Explore the park’s lush forests and open savannas on foot during guided walking safaris. This intimate experience allows you to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem and observe wildlife behavior up close while accompanied by knowledgeable guides.

Glide across the tranquil waters of Momella Lakes in a canoe, marveling at the reflections of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro in the shimmering surface. This serene activity offers a unique perspective of the park’s landscape and provides opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Arusha National Park Trails

Mount Meru Summit Trail

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 14 miles (22.5 km) with an elevation gain of 9,842 feet (3,000 meters)

Description: The Mount Meru Summit Trail offers a challenging ascent to the summit of Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania.

Hikers will traverse through diverse ecosystems, including lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. Encounter unique wildlife such as colobus monkeys and buffalo while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

The trail culminates in the summit, where hikers can marvel at the stunning vistas of Arusha National Park and beyond.