| Duration: Varies by Package | Group Size: Flexible | Availability: Year-Round |
| Suitable For: All Travelers | Pickup & Drop: Included | Language: English (Others on Request) |
Tour Overview
Enjoy a 1 day trip to Arusha National Park, a hidden gem featuring Mount Meru, lush forests, wildlife, and the scenic Momella Lakes. Perfect for a short yet unforgettable Tanzanian safari experience.
The 1 day trip to Arusha National Park is a perfect short safari for travelers staying in Arusha or Moshi. Despite being one of Tanzania’s smaller parks, Arusha National Park offers an incredible variety of landscapes and wildlife — from montane forests and savannahs to lakes and volcanic craters. Visitors can enjoy game drives, canoeing, and even short walks accompanied by an armed ranger. The park lies at the base of Mount Meru, offering stunning views of both Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
1 Day Trip to Arusha National Park — Discover Nature’s Diversity in a Day
Introduction
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most picturesque and diverse parks, located just 45 minutes from Arusha town. It combines forested slopes, open grasslands, and shimmering lakes into one compact reserve. Though small, it provides incredible wildlife viewing and scenic beauty, making it the ideal destination for a quick yet memorable day safari.
Morning — Departure & Game Drive in the Park
Your day starts early with a drive from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi to the park entrance gate. After registration, begin your game drive through the lush montane forest. You might encounter blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and playful baboons. Bushbucks and duikers can often be seen darting among the trees. If you’re lucky, you might spot shy leopards resting in the branches.
Highlights
Beautiful drive through forested landscapes, unique primates, and incredible birdlife.
Late Morning — Ngurdoto Crater Exploration
Continue toward the Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as a “mini Ngorongoro.” This ancient volcanic formation is covered with lush vegetation and surrounded by steep walls. The crater floor serves as a grazing ground for buffaloes and warthogs, while the surrounding forest teems with bird species. The viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic scenes — perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
Highlights
Spectacular views of Ngurdoto Crater and the surrounding forest ecosystem.
Midday — Momella Lakes & Wildlife Viewing
Head toward the colorful Momella Lakes, famous for their varying hues caused by different mineral content. The lakes attract flamingos, herons, and other water birds, offering excellent photography opportunities. In this area, you’ll also see herds of zebras, giraffes, and waterbucks grazing near the water’s edge. Hippos occasionally surface lazily, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Optional Canoeing Adventure
For those seeking a bit of adventure, optional canoeing on the Momella Lakes provides a peaceful way to view wildlife from a unique perspective. Paddle alongside flamingos, watch giraffes from the water, and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Afternoon — Picnic Lunch & Scenic Views
Enjoy your picnic lunch at one of the designated picnic sites inside the park, often with a backdrop of Mount Meru or the shimmering lakes. The views are simply breathtaking. After lunch, you can take a short guided nature walk led by an armed ranger to explore the forest and learn about the flora and fauna of this biodiverse park.
Highlights
Lunch with panoramic views, relaxed walking safari, and peaceful nature immersion.
Late Afternoon — Return Journey
After an exciting day of exploration, begin your journey back to Arusha or Moshi. Along the way, enjoy final glimpses of the park’s wildlife and mountain scenery. By evening, you’ll return with wonderful memories of your adventure in one of Tanzania’s most diverse parks.
Trip Highlights
- Explore forests, craters, and lakes in one compact park.
- See wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and monkeys.
- Enjoy views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro on clear days.
- Optional canoeing and short walking safaris available.
- Ideal for travelers with limited time.
Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park can be visited year-round. The dry season (June to October) is best for wildlife viewing, while the wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching. Each season brings a unique charm, making the park a wonderful destination any time of year.
Travel Tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting wildlife in dense areas.
- Carry a light jacket — mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to do a short nature walk.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Keep your camera ready — the views are stunning throughout the park.
Wild Beauty Close to the City
The 1 day trip to Arusha National Park is a perfect mix of scenery, wildlife, and adventure. Whether you’re admiring flamingos at Momella Lakes, watching giraffes glide across the plains, or hiking through misty forests, every moment feels special. It’s a short journey packed with natural wonders — a true gem for those seeking a quick yet unforgettable safari experience in Tanzania.
