Arusha’s Scenic Safari Day

Safari summary

Arusha National Park Day Trip: A Complete Travel Guide
1. Introduction
Arusha National Park, located just 40 kilometers from the bustling town of Arusha, Tanzania, is a gem of East African wildlife and scenic beauty. Although smaller than Tanzania’s more famous parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, it offers a unique combination of landscapes and ecosystems within a compact area, making it perfect for a day trip. The park is dominated by the majestic Mount Meru, whose towering peak rises to 4,566 meters and is often visible from Arusha town. The landscapes here are diverse: lush montane forests, volcanic cones, freshwater lakes, and open savannah plains all exist within a few kilometers of each other.

This combination allows visitors to experience a wide range of wildlife and ecosystems in just a single day, making Arusha National Park an ideal introduction to Tanzania’s natural wonders. From observing giraffes grazing the plains to spotting monkeys swinging in the forest, and flamingos coloring the lakes pink, every corner of the park is filled with surprises. This guide provides everything you need to know to enjoy a fully immersive day trip.

2. Getting There & Park Access
Arusha National Park is incredibly accessible, making it ideal for travelers with limited time. The park is located approximately a 45-minute drive from Arusha town, depending on traffic. Most day trips start with pick-up from hotels or lodges in Arusha, where a 4x4 safari vehicle awaits.
The main entrance to the park is through Momella Gate, located near the Momella Lakes area. Entrance fees are generally required for all visitors, with separate charges for foreign adults, children, and vehicles. It’s advisable to confirm these fees with your tour operator, as they can change seasonally.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October and late December to February), when wildlife is more easily visible on the open plains, and roads within the park are more navigable. Early morning departures are recommended to maximize wildlife sightings, as animals are more active and the lighting is ideal for photography.
3. Landscapes & Ecosystems
Arusha National Park is a miniature of Tanzania’s larger ecological diversity. The park can be divided into three main ecosystems:
a. Montane Forests:
At the foot of Mount Meru, dense montane forests provide habitat for colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Walking trails in these areas allow visitors to experience the rich flora, including giant fig trees, ferns, and endemic plants. The air is cool and refreshing, offering a peaceful escape from the savannah below.
b. Momella Lakes:
These shallow alkaline lakes are one of the park’s highlights. Their colors vary dramatically from turquoise to deep green due to algae and mineral deposits, creating a stunning visual contrast. Flamingos are frequent visitors, along with pelicans, herons, and other waterbirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers.
c. Savannah Plains:
The park’s open plains are home to giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and occasionally elephants. Rolling hills and volcanic cones punctuate the horizon, providing dramatic landscapes for photography and wildlife observation. The plains offer a classic African safari experience within a compact, easily accessible area.
4. Wildlife Highlights
Although smaller than other Tanzanian parks, Arusha National Park is rich in biodiversity:
Mammals:
Giraffes browsing the acacia trees
Plains zebras grazing in herds
African buffalo roaming the savannah
Colobus and blue monkeys in the forests
Occasionally elephants and leopards (rare sightings)
Birds:
Flamingos at Momella Lakes, Pelicans, herons, and egret, Various raptors such as African fish eagles, Over 400 bird species recorded in the park
Visitors are often delighted by the proximity of wildlife, as animals in the park tend to be accustomed to vehicles, allowing excellent photographic opportunities without disturbing them.
5. Activities
Arusha National Park offers a variety of activities for a full-day itinerary:
a. Game Drives:
The primary activity is a guided game drive in a 4x4 vehicle. Experienced guides take visitors through the park’s savannah and forested areas, ensuring the best wildlife sightings while providing insights about animal behavior and conservation.
b. Walking Safaris:
Some areas, especially near Momella Lakes and forested trails, allow guided walking safaris. Walking provides an intimate encounter with nature, from listening to birdsong to spotting smaller mammals and reptiles.
c. Birdwatching & Photography:
The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, colorful birds, and wildlife in their natural habitats.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Moderate activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Arusha
	Accesibility	This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Bird watching—with professional guide
• Walking safari—with armed guard
• Photography safari—with professional guide

What’s included?

• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver