Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, an undiscovered treasure situated at the base of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, is a brief drive from Arusha, the safari hub of northern Tanzania. The park is around 552 square kilometers (213 square miles), providing a concise yet varied safari experience, in contrast to the expansive savannahs of Tanzania’s renowned parks such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Arusha National Park, though diminutive in size, features an impressive diversity of ecosystems and landscapes, encompassing the verdant montane forests at the base of Mount Meru, the alpine desert near its peak, the serene alkaline Momella Lakes adorned with hues of green and blue, and the expansive grassy savannahs and undulating hills.

This variety of ecosystems sustains a correspondingly wide range of fauna and vegetation. The park is known for its avifauna, with more than 400 species documented, rendering it an ideal destination for ornithologists. Although it does not support substantial populations of large game like other parks, Arusha National Park provides distinctive animal observation possibilities, featuring black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and various antelope species. The elusive leopard and spotted hyenas are present, although sightings are infrequent.

Arusha National Park encompasses several remarkable features, including the Ngurdoto Crater, frequently termed a smaller Ngorongoro, and the Momella Lakes, renowned for their flamingo populations. Mount Meru, the park’s focal point, presents a demanding and picturesque trekking experience, with its inclines affording breathtaking vistas of the savannah beneath and Kilimanjaro in the background. The park’s proximity to Arusha city makes it an attractive day-trip location for individuals seeking to enjoy Tanzania’s natural splendor without straying far from urban amenities. Arusha National Park provides a tranquil and scenic start to the marvels of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, suitable for a day trek, a canoe excursion on the Momella Lakes, or a game drive over its many terrains.

Activities in Arusha

Activities in Arusha: Arusha is a town located in northern Tanzania and serves as a departure point for numerous safaris in the region.

Explore Arusha National Park

While in Arusha, if you seek a nearby safari experience, consider visiting Arusha National Park.

Arusha National Park features various attractions, including the Momella Lakes, waterfalls, Mount Meru (the second highest mountain in Tanzania), and diverse wildlife species. The national park features several bird species observable during a safari.

While touring Arusha National Park, one can observe wildlife species including monkeys, buffalo, and zebras in the savannah plains. A safari in this national park serves as an excellent introduction to the safari experience in Tanzania, although there are larger destinations in the northern region, such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park, which boast a greater diversity of wildlife species.

Lake Duluti

A notable destination in Arusha is Lake Duluti, an excellent site for canoeing in Tanzania.

Lake Duluti is a crater lake located approximately 13 kilometers from Arusha town. Additional activities that can be undertaken on a tour near Lake Duluti encompass hiking, forest hikes, and birdwatching.

Chemka Hot Springs

One may also explore the Chemka hot springs while touring Arusha. The hot springs, also known as Kikuletwa hot springs, are situated a little drive from the route connecting Arusha town and Moshi.

This location is ideal for relaxation following a trek on Mount Kilimanjaro or a day excursion in Arusha. These geothermal springs are naturally heated, allowing for swimming while immersed in the surrounding natural environment and foliage.

Maserani Snake Park

Arusha town caters to reptile enthusiasts with a visit to Maserani Snake Park, where one may observe these reptiles up close and get knowledge about them. The snake park has more than 50 distinct species of snakes.

The Maserani Snake Park features additional reptiles, like crocodiles and monitor lizards, which are observable throughout a tour. After seeing the snake park, you may also visit the snake bar for a refreshing beverage.

The visit to the snake park will educate you on the proper protocols and precautions while encountering snakes or other reptiles.

Touring coffee plantations

During a safari in Tanzania, you may participate in a coffee tour in Arusha, exploring one of the numerous coffee farms in the vicinity.

During these tours to the coffee farms, you will learn how coffee is cultivated, harvested, and prepared in the native manner until it is ready to be savored. The excellent volcanic soils of Tanzania promote coffee cultivation. Engage with the locals throughout your coffee tour to experience their lifestyle.

Cultural heritage center

The cultural heritage center in Arusha is an additional destination to visit during a safari in Tanzania. At the historical center, you will observe a variety of artworks and carvings.

The cultural heritage centre features a museum, restaurant, coffee shop, spice centre, and curio shop available for visitation.

Tanzanite Encounter

A tour of Arusha may also include an excursion to learn more about the exquisite tanzanite mineral.

Tanzania is a nation renowned for the exquisite tanzanite gemstone, characterized by its blue-violet hue. While touring Arusha, one can learn about tanzanite, its history, and purchase jewelry.

Arusha Tower

The Arusha Tower is located at an equidistant position between Cairo and Cape Town. This tower serves as a landmark in the town and is a recommended stop during your journey in northern Tanzania.

Botanical gardens

A visit to the Botanical Gardens in Arusha is an enjoyable activity for youngsters during a tour of the city.

Arusha City

The town of Arusha merits exploration during a vacation to Tanzania, allowing for immersion in local culture, visits to markets, sampling of regional cuisine at various restaurants, or leisurely drives throughout the area.

visiting the Maasai market

For a cultural experience in Arusha, consider touring the Maasai market, where you will encounter many native arts and crafts, including the renowned beaded jewelry of the Maasai. This excursion allows you interaction with the Maasai and the opportunity to savor a traditional lunch while listening to narratives about their nomadic lifestyle and rich culture.

visiting the local restaurants

What is a tour in Arusha without sampling the local cuisine and other delicacies? Numerous restaurants provide both foreign and local cuisines for your exploration, and if you appreciate quality beer, you may sample local varieties such as Kilimanjaro or other regional brews.

Climbing of Mount Meru

During a tour in Arusha, you may also undertake the challenge of ascending Tanzania’s second tallest mountain. Mount Meru, with an elevation of 4,566 meters, is a notable destination for hiking.

A trek on Mount Meru can equip you for the ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, located in northern Tanzania.

Exploring Museums

Your tour of Arusha town may include various museums that showcase the culture, art, and craftsmanship of the Tanzanian people.

Arusha Night Light

Ultimately, upon nightfall, one can frequent the clubs in Arusha to relish the indigenous music and engage in dance while socializing with others.