Flamingos in Arusha National Park | Wikimedia Flamingos in Arusha National Park | Wikimedia
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Arusha National Park

21 reviews

Safari suitability: 4/10

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The park does offer some excellent activities for those seeking exercise, but its small size and lack of big game bring it down a few points.

Found in: Tanzania
Companies: 1599
Tour packages: 776
Wildlife: 8 animals listed
Total area: 137 km² (53 mi²)
Year established: 1960
Anti-malarial: Not required

What YAS members think

Quality of wildlife:
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Most-visited month:
September
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Highlights

  • Home to Mt. Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania

  • Walking, canoeing and mountain biking safaris are possible here

  • About an hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO

About Arusha National Park

Arusha National is located in north eastern Tanzania, about 35 km (22 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport.  The bustling town of Arusha is often an initial destination for weary travellers who’ve just landed at JRO (Kilimanjaro airport) after hours of travel. The town of Arusha is sees loads of tourists as they pass through on their way to the parks, and it offers a wide-range of lodging and dining options. There are also several good markets where people can haggle alongside locals for handmade souvenirs.  Mount Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania at 4566 m (14,980 ft), is located in Arusha National Park. Walking and hiking safaris are possible with a ranger guide, and as one ascends the slopes of Mt. Meru, they will be afforded some stunning views of neighboring Mt. Kilimanjaro. 

Arusha is a great park those seeking outdoor activity. In addition to game drives there is also the option to do hikes, canoeing and mountain biking. Mount Meru receives a very small portion of visitors as most opt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.  A wide-variety of animals can be found in Arusha National Park, from small colobus monkeys to giraffes, hippos and zebra. There are very few elephants here and lions are no longer found in this park.  A few leopards are purported to remain in the park, but they are rarely sited.

When is the best to visit Arusha National Park?

Arusha is best visited during the dry seasons, between the months of June and October and January through March. November and December are the short rain months and visitors may experience an occasional downpour which will then turn to clean skies. March through May is the heavy rains season and most outdoor activities will be difficult during this time of year.

"Multi-activities Arusha National Park"

Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
0 kudus
Reviews (2)
Visited: Aug. 2022 Reviewed: Sep. 04, 2022 Submitted in:

Arusha National Park covers Mt. Meru a prominent volcano with an elevation of 4566M, second highest peak in Tanzania after Mt. Kilimanjaro. It’s a small national park with an area of( 552 square km). It has varied spectacular landscape including Ngurdoto Crater, grassland, open savannah forest and alkaline Momela Lake. The park has rich wildlife including giraffes, cape buffalo, zebra, warthog, black and white colobus monkey, blue monkey, bushbuck and birdlife in the forest is plentiful but also the migratory flamingos are found at Lake Momela . Arusha National park is a popular day trips destination as it’s strategically located close to Arusha City only 21 km and Moshi town 58 km away. You can have a walking safari with an armed ranger but also enjoy canoe at Lake Momela, horse riding, mountain biking, climb Mt. Meru 3/4 days trek or just enjoy a traditional Safari on a jeep . Famous Hatari movie by John Wayne (1962) was made at Momella Farm present day part of Arusha national park

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By: Charles
Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Aug. 2022
Reviewed: Sep. 04, 2022

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"A Jewel in Kigoma: Exploring the Wonders of Gombe Stream National Park"

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Safari guru
African traveller
Tanzania Tanzania
629 kudus
Reviews (17)
Visited: Sep. 2022 Reviewed: Nov. 28, 2023 Submitted in:

Nestled in the western embrace of Gombe Stream National Park stands as a testament to the incredible diversity and beauty of Tanzania's natural landscapes. As the smallest national park in the country, Gombe Stream offers a unique and intimate encounter with nature that is nothing short of enchanting. My recent visit as Dakado Safari Operator to Gombe Stream National Park was a revelation. The park's compact size belies its richness, showcasing lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and a tapestry of wildlife that left me awe-inspired. The chance to witness chimpanzees in their natural habitat was a privilege beyond words, and the expert guidance provided added immeasurable value to the experience. The serenity of Gombe Stream creates a tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to connect with nature on a profound level. The picturesque surroundings and the gentle sounds of the forest make every step a journey of discovery. From the towering trees to the vibrant birdlife, Gombe Stream National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape. The conservation efforts evident in the park are commendable, contributing to the preservation of this ecological gem. The rangers and guides exhibit a passion for their work, sharing their knowledge and fostering a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of the ecosystem. it's a hidden gem waiting to be explored. My time here was a symphony of nature, a harmonious blend of wilderness and tranquility that left an indelible mark on my soul. If you seek a destination that offers a profound connection with nature, Gombe Stream is an absolute must-visit.

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Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Sep. 2022
Reviewed: Nov. 28, 2023

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"Untouched hidden oasis in outskirts of Arusha town"

Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
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Reviews (1)
Visited: Jan. 2023 Reviewed: Jan. 17, 2023 Submitted in:

Not endless plains but endless green forest, a splendor place to visit and less visited beautiful greenish nature. It was amazing to visit here I could see the full view of Mt.Meru the second-highest Mountain in Tanzania and the fourth-highest Mountain in Africa. Animals wandered everywhere, giraffes, zebras, elephants, dik-dik, buffaloes, warthogs, aardvarks, flamingoes, waterbirds, Waterbucks, and many other wild animals. This park is less touristy, this gives the family a good chance to reconnect, enjoy and learn as much as possible! The walking safari was just amazing accompanied by an armed park ranger we walked near the giant African buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and big baboons. One of the best epic moments was a bush lunch, we nicknamed it a forest lunch, which we did very close to a small stunning waterfall surrounded by white colobus monkeys, we sniffed the fresh air which was the healing process for us. We realized that being in a such cool nature was enough to cure our souls as a family. If you want to experience the beauty of life and enjoy the majestic on Earth then Arusha National Park could be on of the best place to consider.

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Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Jan. 2023
Reviewed: Jan. 17, 2023

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"Beautiful scenic park close to Arusha"

Safari guide
Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
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Reviews (1)
Visited: Oct. 2022 Reviewed: Oct. 31, 2022 Submitted in:

Arusha National Park is truly a little gem close to Arusha City. The backdrop off Mount Meru gives this park an outstanding scenery. Walking/ Hiking and Mountain Biking are my favorite activities in this park. If you are a nature lover and would like a short escape from Arusha city, then this is your go to destination.

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By: Ricky
Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Oct. 2022
Reviewed: Oct. 31, 2022

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"A little jewel in Arusha"

Safari guru
Italy Italy
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Reviews (1)
Visited: Sep. 2021 Reviewed: Feb. 17, 2022 Submitted in:

Arusha is well know by whoever is planning a safari in Tanzania and hides a real wonder, the Arusha National park. Often snubbed by the programming of the northern circuit, it contains several wonders and it’s the perfect choice for a day game drive, maybe combined with a walking excursion. Part of the park is covered by the rainforest inside which stands the beautiful Mount Meru, a still active volcano, which is also the second highest mountain in all of Tanzania with its 4.566 meters. Here a lot of primates live, the black-and-white colobus included, which flies on the tree branches fluttering its wonderful fur. Another feature of this park is the Ngurdoto Crater, a small caldera of about three km, full of fauna, called the ‘small Ngorongoro’. For bird lovers there are many ornithological species and the seven small Momella Lakes which, with their extremely alkaline waters, attract numerous flamingos. They are spectacular seen from afar: immense pink spots. As for the remaining fauna, there are elephants, herbivores and giraffes with the largest population in the world. Of course it is possible to trek the Meru: some consider it a training before tackling the great giant, the Kilimanjaro. Among the plants present in the park I point out the singular strangling figs, a strange species of parasite that envelops the host plant until it kills it. Much photographed is the specimen under which a door for cars has been opened. The best moment to visit this park is during the dry season, July to November.

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By: Mirta
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Italy Italy
Visited: Sep. 2021
Reviewed: Feb. 17, 2022

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"Mount Meru - A hidden treasure"

Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
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Reviews (1)
Visited: Feb. 2018 Reviewed: Oct. 28, 2021 Submitted in:

Mt Meru is the lesser known great climbing adventure, often greatly over shadowed by its close by neighbor, Mt Kilimanjaro. However, this extraordinary adventure should not be missed, time permitting. Whether summiting or stopping short before the peak, the views are simply breathtaking. Especially, seeing Mt Kili at dusk, a sight which is ethereal. However, it is important to have a very experienced and trusted guide. While ascending, there are wild buffalo which are very dangerous as well as the climb to the summit, usually starting around midnight, is not for the inexperienced or faint of heart.

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By: Edgar
Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Feb. 2018
Reviewed: Oct. 28, 2021

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"Mt Meru & Memella lakes''"

Top contributor
Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
604 kudus
Reviews (13)
Visited: Apr. 2015 Reviewed: Mar. 13, 2017

Arusha National Park is lovely little park has stunning scenery that is very different and considerably more lush than that of its northern neighbor. The wildlife watching is satisfying, with sightings of elephants, zebras, giraffes and dik-diks common. For me, a favorite attraction is the black-and-white colobus monkey, which is frequently spotted here. Another highlight: the small Momella Lakes, which attract flamingo's and other water birds. If you're arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport and have a few extra days at your disposal, I recommend Arusha park as a convenient and enjoyable stop for a night or two before heading further afield for your main safari. There is a good range of accommodation in and around Usa River, the park access village.

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Safari guru
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Apr. 2015
Reviewed: Mar. 13, 2017

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"What a diverse lush green park"

Safari enthusiast
Australia Australia
247 kudus
Reviews (4)
Visited: Sep. 2016 Reviewed: Oct. 11, 2016

What can I say - Colobus monkeys are the most amazing monkeys. They put on a wonderful display swinging through the trees. There were thousands of bright-pink lesser flamingos lining the edges of the lakes and the islands in the lake. So spectacular. Lots of different birds, giraffes (saw two young males play fighting), hippos swimming out to warn a group of canoeists to get moving, blue monkeys, an albino olive baboon. A beautiful peaceful park.

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Safari enthusiast
Australia Australia
Visited: Sep. 2016
Reviewed: Oct. 11, 2016

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"A beautiful way to escape from the crowds"

Tanzania Tanzania
12 kudus
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Reviews (1)
Visited: Oct. 2014 Reviewed: Mar. 02, 2016

Not many people know of this beautiful little haven, so if you want that private safari moment, this is the real deal. It was fun taking a walk with the giraffes, baboons, buffaloes staring at us all the way to the little waterfall that we didn't hesitate to take a quick face wash before we headed for the game drive. The Momella Lake was all pink, filled with flamingos every where. First time I ever saw one of my favorite birds, the African Hoopoe.

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Safari tour operator
Tanzania Tanzania
Visited: Oct. 2014
Reviewed: Mar. 02, 2016

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"Arusha NP and the Momella lakes"

Safari enthusiast
Top contributor
Netherlands Netherlands
801 kudus
Reviews (13)
Visited: Jan. 2014 Reviewed: Dec. 21, 2015

Nice play to stay and you find there also lots of animals, but also the small and big lake Momella. It's possible to do a canoe trip with a guide. Very nice to do and with a bit of luck (like I had) you can see hippos . The sides of the lake has many flamingos and also in the middle of the lake you see them, and that because there is a ridge in the water. With a bit of luck you also can see Mt. Kilimanjaro. I stayed in Momella Lodge, nice place to be. The rooms are dated, but clean. Also on this place we were the only guest, means also we drink coffee with one of the staff and there is also a hippo pool and with the girl who worked there that day I got to see a hippo in the pool, not 100 m away.

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Safari enthusiast
Netherlands Netherlands
Visited: Jan. 2014
Reviewed: Dec. 21, 2015

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"Short but neat"

Travel writer
Zimbabwe Zimbabwe
98 kudus
Photos (0)
Reviews (8)
Visited: Jun. 2015 Reviewed: Jun. 18, 2015

Only stopped here for an afternoon, mainly to kill some time. It's actually a gorgeously green park with lots of monkeys about. Not a great place if you're after big game, but if you want nice scenery and little crowds, it's good. And, humid.

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Zimbabwe Zimbabwe
Visited: Jun. 2015
Reviewed: Jun. 18, 2015

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Driving to Arusha National Park from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arusha National Park is very easy to access. It is roughly 90 minutes from the center of Arusha and between 2 and 2.5 hours from JRO, Kilimanjaro International Airport. 

Driving from Nairobi to Arusha National Park

The drive from Nairobi's international airport to Arusha National Park takes around four to five hours, not including time spent at border crossings. Shuttle and bus services between Nairobi and Arusha are mushrooming. Companies such as Riverside offer daily shuttles from around $30 pp US.

 

The following airlines travel to Arusha National Park


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Scheduled domestic services in Tanzania. Air Tanzania Corporation (ATC) the Tanzanian flag-carrier, was established on 11 March, 1977, to operate the services suspended following the dissolution of East African Airways (EAA), which was owned jointly by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Visit website

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As Salaam Air has grown to be a leading air carrier between the Tanzanian Islands. Our experienced team understands that customer satisfaction is important to the creation of a successful flight operation. Thus, we go above and beyond to satisfy our clients. The airline plies eight routes to promote tourism within and outside the country. We have two fuel-efficient aircraft – Cessna 208B Grand Caravan and Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia, which are good for the environment and the safety of our clients.We would like to help you discover more about our Islands here on our website and at every step of your journey Visit website

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Coastal Aviation is an airline operating out of Dar es Salaam - charter flights. Coastal Aviation flying to some 100 strips located in some of the most isolated pockets of the East African Region. The scheduled Coastal network also connects visitors to Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda with the world-famous Serengeti, links the emerging tourism destinations of Mozambique with the Southern Tanzania parks of Selous and Ruaha, and unites the tropical island paradises of Pemba, Zanzibar, Mafia and Fanjove Private Iaslandwith the National Parks and towns of the mainland. Our state of the art fleet is composed of 20 aircraft and has been expertly-adapted to the African safari environment, without compromise to safety and comfort. Visit website

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Flightlink is a scheduled airline with Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Air Service License (ASL) granted by Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority & Kenya Civil Aviation Authority to conduct Private & Scheduled Flight under Public Transport category within the region. All the aircraft in our fleet are chosen for their excellent safety records and their ability to perform in even in the most hostile conditions, so landing be it in the bush or on tarmac is not at all taxing. Visit website

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Precision Air is a publicly-listed Tanzanian airline and a leader in providing scheduled flight services to over 10 destinations within and outside Tanzania from its main hub Dar es Salaam. The company operates on the principle that quick, comfortable and reliable service is the best way to serve its customers. Through its customer-focused approach, many have become part of the Precision Air family. Precision Air started with its headquarters in Arusha - the midpoint between the Cape and Cairo, which is the entry point to many of Tanzania's world-renowned landmarks and national parks. The headquarters of Precision Air are now Dar es Salaam, the business complex of the country, which is home to a vast size of traffic travelling within and outside Tanzania. Visit website

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Premium Charter Service is an air charter broker based in Tanzania. We offer our valued clients a truly exclusive flying experience, one that combines luxury with the convenience of flying privately. Our network of domestic and international operators adheres to strict standards of quality. We deliver a superior experience to our clients with a high level of professionalism. Visit website

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Regional air is a recognized leader in the aviation industry in Tanzania, the airline began in 1997 with one pilot and one aircraft. They are affiliated to the long-established Nairobi-based domestic airline, Airkenya. We are based in the northern Tanzanian town of Arusha. Arusha is the starting point of safaris into Northern Tanzania, as the airline also offers charters to these various parks and game reserves. Visit website

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Safari Plus is Tanzania’s first, Premium Charter operator in Tanzania positioned to offer unique flying experience while giving our customers flexibility and total control over their travel needs around the country and beyond. The Airline was established in 2009. 1 x Beechcraft King Air 350 with 8 Seats configured in executive club seating. 2 x Beechcraft 1900D with 18 Seats. Head office based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Operating base at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Approved by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority to operate both; Scheduled Air Services and Non-Schedule Air Services (Charter Services). Visit website

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Premier safari airline and charter. Safarilink is Kenya's premier safari airline with a network of connecting domestic scheduled services to all the best safari destinations within Kenya and across the border into northern Tanzania. From it's base at Wilson Airport, Nairobi SafariLink provides daily scheduled flights to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo West, Naivasha, Nanyuki, Lewa Downs, Samburu, Lamu, Kilimanjaro, Loisaba, Migori and Diani Beach. Additionally it can also provide private charter flights if a client's particular requirement as regards destination or timing cannot be met by the scheduled services. Visit website

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TANZANAIR was formed in 1969 and pioneered aviation throughout Tanzania. Today it continues to live up to its slogan as the“Complete Aviation Company”. It was founded by Dinos J Samaras who managed the Company until he passed away in April 2010. It is now headed by his son John Samaras who was his deputy since 1983. With 45 years’ experience, TANZANAIR offers tailor-made air travel to suit the needs of its customers. With a modern fleet of twin and single-engine Cessna and Beechcraft turbine aircraft, TANZANAIR’s well-established reputation leads the way in air charter services throughout the region. TANZANAIR operates out of its own purpose-built Passenger Terminal located between Terminal I and II at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. The passenger lounge is adjacent to the two hangars. It is housed within a secure wall enclosed compound with ample parking facilities. Visit website

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Flown by an international team of pilots, Zantas Air has one of the youngest fleets of Cessna Grand Caravans in Tanzania. These are maintained to the highest safety standards and comply with the ICAO, CESSNA, and TCAA directives. We have an exclusive lounge at Arusha airport. Guests can relax in our comfortable lounge while they wait for their flight. Our operations are designed to suit our client's needs with a customized itinerary based on their schedule. Zantas Air works with its sister company, Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, to offer shared charter flights. We fly passengers from Northern Tanzania to Western Tanzania twice a week on Monday and Thursdays. Visit website

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