Meru's Forested Slopes
Rich montane forest, home to colobus monkeys and many birds.
Forests, crater lakes and mountain views
Arusha
National Park
Misty forests, crater lakes and remarkable wildlife beneath the towering peak of Mount Meru.
Explore deeper
Hidden beauty close to the city
Welcome to Arusha National Park
Just a short drive from Arusha city, this compact park packs in montane forest, open grassland, volcanic craters and the colourful Momella Lakes, all overlooked by Mount Meru.
Giraffes graze the slopes and colobus monkeys leap through the canopy. It is perfect for a day trip, a walking safari or a gentle start to a longer journey.
What makes it extraordinary
Three reasons to fall for Arusha National Park
Wildlife on a walking safari
Explore on foot with an authorised guide and ranger, noticing tracks and details missed from a vehicle.
The beauty of Mount Meru
Meru’s rugged, forested slopes make a dramatic backdrop to every game drive and photograph.
The colourful Momella Lakes
Shallow lakes that change colour with the seasons and attract flamingos and other waterbirds.
A different side of Tanzania's wildlife
Forest, lake and mountain
Arusha National Park rewards visitors with varied habitats and distinctive species. Giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and warthogs roam the grasslands, while black-and-white colobus and blue monkeys fill the forest.
Birdlife is a highlight across forest and lake. Here the landscape matters as much as the sightings, with Kilimanjaro visible on clear days.
Mountain, forest and lake
Distinct landscapes, different experiences
Each part of Arusha National Park has its own atmosphere, wildlife and reasons to linger.
Momella Lakes
Colour-changing lakes where flamingos gather in season.
Ngurdoto Crater
A forest-ringed volcanic crater with a green, marshy floor.
Open Grasslands
Giraffes and zebras with views toward Meru and Kilimanjaro.
Where you'll stay
Your base near Arusha
Stay in Arusha city for easy access and day trips, or at a countryside lodge with gardens and mountain views. Luxury retreats are ideal for private safaris and honeymoons.
Beneath the towering mountains, every forest trail and open clearing reveals another side of Tanzania's wild beauty.
Make it your journey
Safaris in Arusha National Park
A few ways to include Arusha National Park in your Tanzania adventure. Routes and durations can be tailored to your dates.
- Arusha National Park Day SafariForest, lakes and grassland with views of Mount Meru.
- Arusha Walking SafariExplore on foot with an authorised guide and ranger.
- Mount Meru ClimbA multi-day ascent of Tanzania’s second-highest peak.
- Northern Circuit SafariCombine Arusha with Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
Travel inspiration
Stories for your safari planning
Safari inspiration
What to Expect in Arusha National Park
Wildlife, landscapes, walking safaris and practical tips for your visit.
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When to travel
The Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
How rainfall, vegetation and mountain views change through the year.
Read morePlan your route
Arusha National Park or Lake Manyara?
Mountain forest and crater lakes compared with forest and lakeshore.
Read moreReady to plan your Arusha safari?
Tell us your dates and group size. We reply within 24 hours with a suggested itinerary and a clear price.