Nature Responsible Safari

  • Opposite to Arusha Airport, Olorien

Arusha National Park Day trip

Destinations

About Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a stunning and diverse protected area located in northern Tanzania, approximately 25 kilometers east of the city of Arusha. Covering an area of 552 square kilometers, this national park is one of the smaller and lesser-known gems in Tanzania’s extensive network of protected natural areas. Despite its relatively small size, Arusha National Park offers a wide variety of landscapes, wildlife, and activities for visitors to enjoy.

A full day in Arusha National Park provides an opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and activities this unique national park has to offer.

Itinerary

Morning:

  1. Arrival: Start your day early by arriving at the park gate. Ensure you have your permits and fees sorted in advance.

  2. Game Drive: Begin your adventure with a morning game drive. Your guide will take you through the open plains where you can spot herds of zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Keep an eye out for the park’s resident wildlife, and don’t forget to bring your binoculars for birdwatching.

  3. Momella Lakes: After your game drive, head towards the Momella Lakes. These picturesque lakes are excellent for birdwatching and offer stunning views of Mount Meru in the background. It’s a great place to have a picnic breakfast or brunch and relax while taking in the serene surroundings.

Midday:

  1. Ngurdoto Crater: After the lakes, make your way to the Ngurdoto Crater. Take a leisurely drive around the rim of the crater, which offers great viewpoints to spot wildlife. This lush, green area is often referred to as “Little Ngorongoro” due to its similar appearance to the Ngorongoro Crater.

  2. Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch at a designated picnic site within the park. Your tour operator or guide will provide a delicious meal. You can dine while admiring the park’s natural beauty.

Afternoon:

  1. Hiking or Canoeing: Depending on your interests and energy level, you can choose between a guided hike or a canoeing experience. The guided hike typically explores the park’s forests, and it’s a chance to see primates like blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. If you opt for canoeing, you can paddle on one of the Momella Lakes, enjoying a different perspective of the park’s landscape.

  2. Visit a Local Village: If you’re interested in cultural experiences, consider visiting a local Meru village within the park. You can learn about their traditional way of life, interact with the community, and gain insights into their customs and traditions.

Late Afternoon:

  1. Relax and Reflect: As the day draws to a close, take some time to relax and reflect on the natural beauty and wildlife you’ve encountered during your visit. Arusha National Park offers an opportunity for a more intimate and less crowded safari experience, so enjoy the tranquility.

Evening:

  1. Sunset and Departure: Head to one of the park’s viewpoints to catch a breathtaking sunset over Mount Meru. This makes for a fantastic end to your day in the park. Afterward, leave the park and return to your accommodation in Arusha or continue with your Tanzania adventure.