Currently seeing:
Mount Meru rising above acacia-dotted savanna grasslands in Arusha National Park, Tanzania
National ParkArusha National Park
Lakes, craters, and giraffes at the foot of Mount Meru, just minutes from Arusha.
Just outside the city, Arusha National Park is often the first stop for travellers beginning a Tanzania safari itinerary. Although it may be smaller than the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, what it lacks in size it makes up for in variety. Within a single day trip, you can move from volcanic craters to forested slopes, alkaline lakes, and open plains. The highlights come one after another. The Momela Lakes shimmer in shades of green and blue, drawing flocks of flamingoes and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife. The dramatic Ngurdoto Crater, sometimes called “Little Ngorongoro,” is home to buffalo and warthogs in its swampy floor. On the grasslands, giraffes stroll between herds of zebra, while monkeys chatter in the forest canopy. Unlike many other stops on the Tanzania safari circuit, this park allows for a mix of activities. You can explore on a game drive, stretch your legs on a guided walking safari, or try something rare in East Africa: canoeing on the Momela Lakes with wildlife at the water’s edge. With Mount Meru rising above it and Kilimanjaro visible on clear days, the scenery is as memorable as the wildlife. And with its location just 40 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport and easily accessible through the Arusha gate, the park is perfectly placed for those who want to start or end their safari with a taste of Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife.
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Best time to go to Arusha National Park
The best time to visit Arusha National Park is in the dry seasons (June–October and December–February), when wildlife is easier to spot on game drives and conditions are best for walking safaris and canoeing on the Momela Lakes. These months also bring clear views of Mount Meru and, on some days, Kilimanjaro in the distance. The green seasons (March–May and November) transform the park with lush vegetation and excellent birdlife, particularly flamingos, although wildlife can be more dispersed. For travellers adding the park to a Tanzania safari itinerary, the dry months suit those seeking reliable sightings, while the green season appeals to birdwatchers and photographers.
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Where to stay in Arusha National Park
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Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
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Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
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Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
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Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerFrom the first contact to trip preparation and implementation as well as support during the trip, Viatu always acted very professionally. Our wishes and the given financial framework were taken into account. The hotels, the food, the activities - everything was excellent and highly recommended.
Nadja
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerThe recommended accommodations were perfect for us and everything was as expected. Even though we booked on very short notice, everything went smoothly and was well managed by Viatu.
Jan
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
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