Only a short distance from Arusha city is Arusha National Park, a remarkable safari park covering an area of 552 square kilometers. Unlike many other safari parks which tend to be more famous, including Serengeti, Arusha National Park park offers a great scenic view of abundant wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and Mount Meru. Its shimmering lakes and the famous Ngurdoto Crater, together with the evergreen forests, make Arusha National Park a prime place to relax and forget the city bustle.
Arusha National Park has Mount Meru, which is the second highest peak in Tanzania at 4,566 meters tall. Meru serves as an aweing view during safaris in the region. Other deep collagles such as the Ngurdoto Crater (sometimes reffered to as “Little Ngorongoro”), the Momella Lakes, and montane forests are also deeply remarkable and have vast photographic and sheer natural beauty.
Being reap the park has very distinct animals, the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys and some more are to be found. Giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and away from lions concentrated leopards can be seen, while Momella Lakes has flamingos and hippos. Its small size is perfect wildlife encounters, ideal for a day trip or for a short safari.
Only 25 km away from the city of Arusha, the park is not very far away and serves as a great way for people short on time, or those mixing a safari with a particular outing on Mount Kilimanjaro or Meru. It allows a great view of the city while having nature want to be explored.
Arusha National Park has many things to do. You can see some large mammals such as giraffes and buffaloes as well as some rare primates on a game drive. For a more intimate experience with the park’s plants and some of the smaller animals, a guided walking safari can be done. You can also do some canoeing on the Momella Lakes which gives a different point of view and serenity. Those who like to trek may be interested in the Mount Meru treks. For a complete experience, guided cultural trips to some local communities are also offered.
Visiting Arusha National Park during the period of June to October will yield the best experiences. Wildlife will now be concentrated near water sources such as the Momella Lakes which boosts your chances on spotting animals such as buffalos and giraffes. The dry season from June to October also means clear skies which improve the views of Mount Meru and the Ngurdoto Crater. Furthermore, this period is best for walking safaris, canoeing, and trekking.
From January to February, the short dry season offers visitors warmer weather and lush greenery. Just like in June to October, animals will be concentrated near water sources lending to great wildlife spotting. For bird watching, this is probably the best time of the year as migratory birds leave for warmer wintering grounds and join resident species such as flamingos and pelicans. With fewer tourists, this period ensures peace along with great views of Meru.
November to May is classified as the wet season which brings with cheap lodge prices, budget friendly travel, and bird watching. For avid bird watchers, this is peak season as the parks lush vegetation means vibrant bird life with around 400 species, such as flamingos on Mamella lakes, pelicans, and other migratory birds, will be seen.
The uniqueness of Arusha National Park's black-and-white colobus monkeys as well as its close proximity to Arusha city, its topped Mount Meru features, and activities like canoeing and Meru trekking add to the dipersed ecosysters of forest and lake.
Yes, Arusha is fairly visited by tourists who go there with a registered guide. Walks are also taken by armed rangers. Though guests are well catered to by lodgings and camps, visitors are also encouraged to use insect repellent and mosquito nets to lakes to safegaurd themself from malaria.
Comfortable fitting, beige and light clothes, a camera, binoculars, and insect repellent, are a must to take alongside sun screen, a hat, and glasses. During the wet season a water proof jacket is also helpful. Before treks to Meru or safaris, light shoes are highly encouraged. Always check with the lodge first of the supplies are available.
The park can be reached via road as it is 40 minutes (25 km) from Arusha city. Visitors can also fly to Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport (45 km) and will be able to find transfers to the park or these are offered by safari operators as part of their packages.
Day trips from Arusha are one of the budget options available, along with affordable lodges or campsites as well as visiting in the wet season (November-May). Group safaris along with shared game drives with the park's reputable operators are an affordable way to get the highlights of the park.
Some of the activities include game drives, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and cultural trips to the villages which are suitable for children. Many lodges cater for family-friendly accommodation, but it is best to confirm age limits for walking safaris or Mount Meru trekking with your operator.
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