Nestled just a short 45-minute drive from Arusha city center and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most gem-like destinations. Despite its compact size of 137 square kilometers, the park packs an extraordinary variety of ecosystems into a single day trip or multi-day adventure.
From lush montane rainforests teeming with acrobatic Black and White Colobus monkeys to the alkaline waters of the Momella Lakes and the rugged caldera of Ngurdoto Crater (often called "Little Ngorongoro"), Arusha National Park offers safari experiences unlike any other in the region. At African Traces, we organize walking safaris, canoeing expeditions, and game drives that get you remarkably close to East Africa's wild nature.
Seven shallow alkaline lakes fed by underground springs. Each lake exhibits a unique shade of green or blue due to varying mineral content and algae, supporting abundant waterfowl.
Encircled by dense forest, this steep-walled extinct volcano serves as a natural wildlife reserve where human visitors look down from viewpoints at grazing herds below.
Rich montane forest transitioning to giant heather moorlands. Features sweeping panoramic views of neighboring Mount Kilimanjaro on clear mornings.
Meaning "Little Serengeti," this open savannah grassland area near the main gate is ideal for spotting large numbers of giraffes, zebras, and grazing antelopes.
| Season | Months | Wildlife & Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Best for Trekking & Safaris: Clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, pleasant weather for walking safaris, and high animal activity around water sources. |
| Short Rains | November – December | Migratory Birds: Migratory birds arrive at Momella Lakes; lush scenery with short afternoon showers that clear quickly. |
| Warm Season | January – March | Mount Meru Climbing: Excellent condition for trekking Mt. Meru, clear blue skies, and high bird density around crater rim forests. |
| Long Rains | April – May | Green Season: Dramatic overcast skies, misty montane forests, very low visitor density, and prime photographic lighting. |
Feel the pulse of the bush on foot. Walk along nature trails while taking in close-up wildlife observations safely.
Guided 2 to 3-hour canoe trips across Lake Small Momella to watch flamingos, bushbucks, and hippos along the shoreline.
3 or 4-day guided mountain treks passing through ancient forest ecosystems up to Socialist Peak at 4,562m.
Explore diverse micro-climates and crater rim lookouts in a private 4x4 pop-up roof Land Cruiser.
Start From $ 850 Per Person.
Start From $ 1250 Per Person.
Start From $ 280 Per Person.
