Introduction
One of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse national parks, Arusha National Park is a unique destination offering an impressive range of wildlife, landscapes, and activities. It is also home to Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, our Arusha National Park travel guide for 2023/2024 will help you explore this hidden gem.
Overview of Arusha National Park
Located just a short drive from Arusha city, Arusha National Park spans an area of 137 square kilometers. Despite its small size compared to other Tanzanian parks, its landscapes are diverse, including the Meru Crater funnels, the Momela Lakes, the highland montane forest, and the imposing Mount Meru.
Wildlife and Birdlife
Arusha National Park may not have the Big Five, but it offers unique wildlife viewing experiences. You can spot animals like the African buffalo, giraffe, warthog, and zebra. The park is also one of the few places in Tanzania where you can see the black and white colobus monkey.
Bird watchers are in for a treat, too. The park is home to a variety of bird species, with the Momela Lakes attracting migratory water birds such as flamingos.
The Majestic Mount Meru
Dominating the park’s landscape is Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 meters. It’s the second-highest peak in Tanzania and the fifth highest in Africa. The four-day trek to the summit is both challenging and rewarding, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
The Momela Lakes
The Momela Lakes, a series of seven crater lakes, each with a different mineral content that affects the color, are a highlight of Arusha National Park. These alkaline lakes attract a wide array of birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks
Ngurdoto Crater
Often referred to as ‘Little Ngorongoro’, the Ngurdoto Crater is a caldera housing a marshy floor where buffalos, warthogs, and occasionally, elephants can be seen. However, descending into the crater is not permitted.
Activities in Arusha National Park
Beyond wildlife viewing, Arusha National Park offers a range of activities that allow visitors to explore and experience the park in unique ways.
– Game Drives: Conducted in the morning or afternoon, game drives are a staple of any safari experience. They provide an opportunity to view wildlife from the safety and comfort of a vehicle.
– Canoeing on Momela Lakes: Enjoy a serene canoe ride on the Momela Lakes, a unique way to observe water birds and wildlife along the shorelines.
– Walking Safaris: Arusha National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania that allow walking safaris. These guided walks provide a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna.
– Mount Meru Trekking: A trek up Mount Meru is a multi-day adventure that offers stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and a challenging climb. The sunrise view from the summit is truly spectacular.
Practical Information
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to consider some practical information.
– Best Time to Visit: Arusha National Park is open year-round, but the dry season (June-October) is ideal for game viewing, while the wet season (November-May) is excellent for bird watching.
– Getting There: The park is a 40-minute drive from Arusha and approximately 60 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
– Accommodation: While there’s no accommodation within the park, several lodges and campsites are located near the park gates.
– Park Fees: As of 2023, the park fees for non-residents are $53 for adults and $18 for children.
Travel Responsibly
Responsible travel is key to preserving the beauty and ecological integrity of Arusha National Park.
– Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, don’t feed the animals, and keep noise levels down.
– Stay on Designated Paths: Whether on a game drive or a walking safari, stick to the designated paths to minimize disturbance to wildlife and their habitats.
– Leave No Trace: Carry out all litter and ensure you leave the park as pristine as you found it.
– Support Local Communities: Consider purchasing souvenirs from local artisans or hiring local guides to contribute to the local economy.
Food and Dining
While the park itself does not have dining options, various lodges and campsites around the park offer a range of local and international cuisine. Most safari tour operators also provide packed lunches for day visitors. A typical Tanzanian meal may include staples like ‘ugali’ (a type of cornmeal porridge), ‘nyama choma’ (grilled meat), and ‘kachumbari’ (tomato and onion salad). Don’t miss out on trying ‘chai masala’, the local spiced tea, a perfect way to end your day.
Health and Safety
Health and safety are essential factors to consider when planning your trip. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers evacuation in case of emergencies. Malaria is a risk in Tanzania, so taking prophylactics and using mosquito repellents is advisable. Also, ensure you’re up-to-date with routine vaccines, along with Hepatitis A and Typhoid, both of which can be contracted through contaminated food or water in Tanzania.
Park Rules and Regulations
To protect the park’s ecosystem and its inhabitants, visitors are expected to adhere to park rules and regulations. Driving off-road or at night is strictly prohibited. Feeding animals is not allowed, and neither is disturbing the wildlife with loud music or unnecessary noise. All waste must be disposed of in designated areas or taken with you when you leave.
Photography Tips
Arusha National Park offers stunning photo opportunities, from landscape shots of Mount Meru to close-ups of diverse wildlife. Use a decent zoom lens for wildlife photography, as getting too close to the animals is neither safe nor respectful. Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for photographs, while the midday sun can be harsh and result in overexposed images.
How to Plan Your Visit with Easy Travel Tanzania
Easy Travel Tanzania makes it simple to plan your visit. With over 35 years of experience, we provide tailor-made safaris and tours to Arusha National Park, taking into account your interests, budget, and schedule. We handle everything from transport and meals to accommodation and guiding, ensuring your visit is hassle-free and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Arusha National Park, with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and array of activities, is a must-visit destination on any Tanzanian itinerary. This travel guide should equip you with all the essential information you need for your 2025/2026 visit. So pack your binoculars, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore this captivating park. Here at Easy Travel Tanzania, we’re excited to guide you on this adventure.
