Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse national parks, located in the northeastern part of the country, close to the town of Arusha, and near the base of Mount Meru. Here’s a detailed overview:

Key Features & Attractions:

1. Mount Meru:

   • Elevation: The park is home to Mount Meru, the second-highest volcano in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet). While not as famous as Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a challenging hike with spectacular views of the surrounding area. It’s also a great spot for trekking and climbing.

   • Crater and Wildlife: At the summit, there’s a stunning crater, and hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. The mountain is a dormant volcano.

2. Wildlife:

   • Big Five: While Arusha National Park is not known for the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in the same concentration as other parks like Serengeti, it is home to a variety of other species.

   • Animals:

     • Giraffes: Arusha is famous for its giraffe population, especially the Masai giraffes.

     • Colobus monkeys: The park is one of the few places where you can see the black-and-white colobus monkeys.

     • Buffaloes, zebras, and warthogs: You’ll also find herds of buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeest, as well as a variety of antelope species, including waterbucks and impalas.

     • Birdlife: The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds, including the tropical boubou, flamingos, and various species of eagles and hornbills.

3. Ngurdoto Crater:

   • This is one of the key attractions in the park. The Ngurdoto Crater is sometimes called the “small Ngorongoro Crater.” It’s a beautiful, lush crater that supports a variety of wildlife and is an excellent spot for game viewing. The crater floor is home to several species, including herds of buffaloes, warthogs, and antelopes.

4. Momella Lakes:

   • A series of seven small lakes within the park, some of which are alkaline, attract a variety of birdlife, including flamingos. These lakes also support waterfowl and are great for photography.

   • The Momella Lakes are beautiful and provide a peaceful contrast to the more rugged parts of the park.

5. Diverse Ecosystems:

   • Arusha National Park is incredibly diverse, with varying habitats ranging from montane forests and alpine meadows to savannah and wetlands.

   • This diversity makes it a great destination for hikers, photographers, and those seeking a more intimate wildlife experience.

6. Activities:

   • Safari Game Drives: Visitors can enjoy game drives around the park, particularly in the Ngurdoto Crater area and the Momella Lakes region.

   • Hiking and Trekking: Hikers can explore Mount Meru, with the option to summit the volcano. It’s less crowded compared to Mount Kilimanjaro but still offers a challenging climb.

   • Canoeing: On Momella Lakes, visitors can take a canoeing trip to view birdlife and other wildlife from the water.

   • Walking Safaris: Arusha National Park offers walking safaris, giving a more intimate experience with the flora and fauna of the park, guided by experienced rangers.

Best Time to Visit:

• Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources.

• Rainy Season (March to May): While the park is lush and green, wildlife may be more dispersed, and some areas might be harder to access due to muddy roads.

• Shoulder Season (November to February): A good balance between fewer tourists and good wildlife sightings.