Arusha National Park

Tanzania's Gateway to Northern Safari

Where Mount Meru Meets Wildlife and Forest

Peak Season

June–October — Dry conditions and strong opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit

June–October — Generally favourable for game drives, walking and mountain scenery.

Famous For

Mount Meru, diverse landscapes, walking safaris and proximity to Arusha.

Home Of

Giraffes, buffalo, zebras, antelope, primates and abundant birdlife.

Why Visit Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a compact and varied park in northern Tanzania, combining Mount Meru, montane forest, open grassland, lakes and volcanic landscapes.

It does not offer the scale of the Serengeti, but its diversity makes it a useful addition to a northern Tanzania safari. Its location near Arusha also makes it convenient for travellers with limited time.

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LHoests-Monkeys-Cercopithecus-lhoesti-in-Uganda-1

Bufallows and Birds in Murchison falls National Park

Apollo Musinguzi

Founder & Lead Guide, Big Predators Tours

Over 20 years guiding safari adventures across Uganda, & Rwanda

Think of Arusha National Park as a diversity park rather than a Big Five destination. Its landscapes, walking experiences and Mount Meru views are its real strengths.

- Apollo Musinguzi

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is accessible throughout much of the year, but seasonal differences affect wildlife viewing, trekking, scenery and road conditions.

June – September
(Peak Season)

June–October attracts higher visitor demand.

Dry weather generally supports comfortable outdoor activities.

Wildlife can be easier to spot in open areas.

Mount Meru views can be impressive on clear days.

Accommodation demand increases around northern Tanzania.

Early planning is useful during busy safari periods.

Best Overall

December – February
(Dry Season)

Vegetation becomes less dense.

Wildlife viewing can be easier.

Roads are generally more manageable.

Walking activities can be more comfortable.

Clear weather can improve mountain photography.

Visitor numbers vary depending on the month.

Great Option

March – May & October – November (Wet Season)

Rainfall creates lush scenery.

Forest landscapes become particularly attractive.

Birdwatching can be rewarding.

Photography benefits from vibrant vegetation.

Some areas may become muddy.

Fewer visitors can create a quieter experience.

Budget Friendly

Wildlife Highlights

Arusha National Park is accessible throughout much of the year, but seasonal differences affect wildlife viewing, trekking, scenery and road conditions.

Giraffes

Giraffes are one of the park's distinctive large mammals and are often encountered across its open habitats.

Buffalo

Large buffalo can be encountered in grassland and wetland areas, providing impressive close-range viewing from a safe distance.

Zebras

Zebras contribute to the park's open-plains wildlife experience and may be encountered during game drives.

Colobus Monkeys

Forest areas provide habitat for primates, including black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Baboons

Baboons are among the more noticeable primates and can be encountered in suitable forest and woodland habitats.

Antelope

The park supports several antelope species across its varied grassland and woodland habitats.

Birding-trips-in-Bwindi-impenetrable-National-Park

Birdlife

Arusha's forests, lakes and grasslands create varied habitats for a wide range of bird species.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN Arusha National Park

Game Drives

Explore the park's grasslands, forests and wetlands in search of wildlife.

Mount Meru Trekking

Climb Tanzania's second-highest mountain through changing vegetation zones.

Walking Safari

Experience the park on foot with an authorized guide.

Momella Lakes

Explore scenic lakes and observe wildlife and birdlife around the wetlands.

Ngurdoto Crater

Visit the spectacular volcanic crater and surrounding wildlife habitat.

Birdwatching

Explore diverse habitats supporting varied birdlife.

Getting There

By Air

Arusha is served by airports connecting with major Tanzanian and regional destinations.

By Road

The park is conveniently located near Arusha and is easily incorporated into northern Tanzania safari routes.

From Arusha

The short transfer makes it suitable for a day visit or a longer safari stop.

Safari Combination

Arusha National Park can be combined with Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Arusha National Park

Pros of Visiting Arusha National Park

Close to Arusha

Diverse landscapes

Mount Meru scenery

Good giraffe and buffalo opportunities

Walking safari options

Strong birding potential

Useful addition to northern Tanzania itineraries

Things to Consider

Not Tanzania's strongest Big Five destination

Predator sightings are less predictable

Smaller than Serengeti

Some attractions require additional time

Wet-season conditions can affect trails and roads

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Location

Location: Arusha National Park lies in northern Tanzania, close to the city of Arusha.

Activities

Game drives, walking experiences, birdwatching and Mount Meru trekking are key activities.

Accommodation

Options range from lodges and hotels around Arusha to accommodation closer to the park.

Getting Around

Game drives require suitable safari vehicles, while walking activities require authorized guides.

Connectivity

Mobile coverage can vary, particularly away from developed areas.

SAFETY & HEALTH

Wildlife Safety

Stay with your guide and follow instructions when viewing wildlife from vehicles or on foot.

Walking Safaris

Walking requires appropriate footwear, fitness and strict adherence to your guide's instructions.

Altitude:

Mount Meru trekking involves significant altitude gain and requires proper physical preparation.

Malaria

Discuss appropriate malaria prevention with a qualified travel-health professional before travelling.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for safari activities and mountain trekking.