Where rainforest, volcanic craters, waterfalls, and Mount Meru create Tanzania’s most scenic safari escape.
1960
552 km²
Partial Presence
Jun – Feb
Arusha National Park is Tanzania’s most accessible national park and one of its most visually diverse landscapes. Located between the slopes of Mount Meru and the edge of the Great Rift Valley, the park combines dense montane forest, volcanic craters, open savannah, alpine highlands, lakes, and waterfalls into a remarkably compact wilderness.
Unlike the larger northern parks, Arusha National Park offers a more intimate safari experience with activities impossible elsewhere in Tanzania — including walking safaris, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and climbing Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest mountain. The park is famous for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, large giraffe populations, flamingos, buffalo, waterfalls, and dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
A chain of shallow alkaline lakes attracting flamingos, waterbirds, and grazing wildlife beneath the shadow of Mount Meru.
A lush volcanic crater filled with forest, swamps, buffalo, and baboons — often called “Little Ngorongoro.”
The fertile slopes of Mount Meru support thick rainforest rich with monkeys, waterfalls, and birdlife.
Rolling grasslands and acacia woodland support zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and antelope herds.
From black-and-white colobus monkeys and giraffes to buffalo, flamingos, and zebras, Arusha National Park delivers one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse wildlife experiences.
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most underrated safari destinations — a place where travelers can walk beside giraffes, paddle across volcanic lakes, and explore rainforest beneath towering volcanic peaks.
Its proximity to Arusha city makes it ideal for day trips, short safaris, acclimatization before Mount Kilimanjaro, or travelers seeking a quieter and more scenic wildlife experience.
1,500 – 4,566 m
400+
Crater & Lakes
Jun – Feb
The southern plains explode with newborn wildebeest calves — and the predators that follow them.
Green season. Lush landscapes, newborn animals, dramatic skies, and far fewer tourists.
The migration moves north through the Western Corridor. Excellent predator viewing begins.
Peak season. The northern Serengeti's Mara River crossings are at their most dramatic.
Short rains refresh the landscape. The migration begins moving south again. Good birding.
Safari Tours
Safari Tours
Safari Tours
Safari Tours
Safari Tours
Safari Tours
