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Arusha National Park
About Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is situated on the foothills of Mount Meru, Africa’s most beautiful volcano and fifth-highest peak. Covering an area of approximately 552 square kilometres, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s smaller national parks but is celebrated for its ecological diversity. The park is easily accessible, located only about 37 kilometres from Arusha, making it a convenient destination for those starting or ending their Tanzania Safari adventure.
The park is characterized by three distinct zones: the Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and Mount Meru. Each zone contributes to the park’s rich biodiversity, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and a myriad of bird species.
Best Time to Visit
The Best Time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers clear skies and excellent visibility for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources. The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and trekking Mount Meru.
For birdwatchers, the wet season from November to April is also great, as migratory birds flock to the park. However, some areas may be harder to access due to rainfall. Regardless of the season, Arusha National Park offers captivating experiences year-round for nature lovers and adventurers.
Highlights
- Mount Meru: The second-highest peak in Tanzania, providing challenging hikes and stunning views.
- Ngurdoto Crater: Often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro,” this volcanic crater offers impressive scenery and wildlife.
- Momella Lakes: A series of seven shallow alkaline lakes, home to various bird species and picturesque views.
- Fig Tree Arch: A natural arch formed by a fig tree, large enough for a car to pass through, offering a unique photo opportunity.
- Colobus Monkeys: The park is famous for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, often seen in the forested areas.
Activities
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s varied habitats and spot wildlife from the comfort of a 4×4 vehicle.
- Canoeing: Enjoy a peaceful canoe safari on the Momella Lakes, where you can see waterbirds and animals like buffalo and giraffes along the shores.
- Walking Safaris: Experience the park up close with a guided walking safari, allowing you to track wildlife on foot.
- Mount Meru Trekking: For the adventurous, a hike up Mount Meru offers breathtaking views and is a great way to acclimatize before attempting Kilimanjaro.
- Bird Watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species recorded, including flamingos and crowned eagles.
- Picnicking: Relax at designated picnic sites and soak in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.
Wildlife
- Giraffes: Arusha National Park is known for its large population of giraffes, easily spotted roaming the savannah.
- Buffaloes: These powerful animals are frequently seen grazing in the grasslands.
- Zebras: You can often spot herds of zebras grazing alongside buffaloes and giraffes.
- Waterbucks and Warthogs: These animals are commonly found near the park’s water bodies.
- Primates: Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and baboons are often seen in the forested areas.
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