Where Mountains, Lakes, and Wildlife Meet

Often overlooked in favor of Tanzania’s larger parks, Arusha National Park is one of the country’s most beautiful and diverse destinations. Compact yet remarkably varied, the park lies at the foothills of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, and offers a refreshing blend of landscapes rarely found in a single location.

From lush montane forests and open savannahs to volcanic craters and shimmering alkaline lakes, Arusha National Park delivers a peaceful, scenic safari experience ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, elegance, and unique encounters close to Arusha town.

Wildlife Encounters in Arusha National Park

While Arusha National Park is not known for large predators, it excels in scenic wildlife viewing and close-up encounters with plains game.

Wildlife highlights include:

• Elegant giraffes, often seen moving gracefully across open plains

• Large groups of Cape buffalo

• Zebras, warthogs, and waterbucks

• Colobus monkeys and blue monkeys in forested areas

• Rich birdlife, with over 400 bird species recorded

The absence of dangerous predators allows for guided walking safaris, a rare and intimate way to experience wildlife on foot.

Momella Lakes & Ngurdoto Crater

One of the park’s most captivating features is the chain of Momella Lakes, each with its own color and character. These shallow alkaline lakes attract flamingos, pelicans, and countless waterbirds, creating a peaceful and photogenic environment.

Nearby lies the Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as “Little Ngorongoro.” This lush volcanic crater is home to buffalo, warthogs, and antelope, and offers stunning viewpoints from the crater rim.

Mount Meru & Scenic Beauty

Dominating the park is Mount Meru, an active stratovolcano rising dramatically above the surrounding landscape. Its slopes are covered in forest and alpine vegetation, making it one of Tanzania’s most scenic backdrops.

Arusha National Park is also the starting point for Mount Meru treks, a rewarding alternative or preparation climb for Mount Kilimanjaro.

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages:

• June to October: Clear views, cooler temperatures, excellent walking safaris

• November to May: Lush greenery, vibrant birdlife, dramatic mountain scenery

• January to March: Ideal for photography and birdwatching

Because of its altitude and varied habitats, the park remains green even during drier months.

The Arusha National Park Experience with Roi Lion Tours

A visit to Arusha National Park with Roi Lion Tours is designed as a relaxed and enriching experience:

• Guided walking safaris with armed rangers

• Scenic game drives through forests, lakes, and open plains

• Canoeing experiences on Momella Lakes (seasonal)

• Ideal for half-day, full-day, or arrival/departure day safaris

Arusha National Park pairs beautifully with Kilimanjaro climbs, cultural tours, or as a gentle introduction to a longer safari journey.

Why Visit Arusha National Park

• Unique mix of mountains, lakes, and wildlife

• Walking safaris and canoeing experiences

• Stunning views of Mount Meru

• Close proximity to Arusha town

• Perfect for short safaris and nature lovers