Arusha National Park
Overview
Arusha National Park, located near the bustling town of Arusha, is a diverse and scenic safari destination, offering a mix of lush montane forests, rolling savannahs, and crater lakes. Covering approximately 552 square kilometers, the park is home to Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, providing a dramatic backdrop to its varied landscapes. Arusha National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, stunning scenery, and the opportunity for walking safaris, making it a unique addition to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
Expect to see
wildlife in the Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, though it differs from larger parks like the Serengeti. While lions are absent, the park boasts an abundance of giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and warthogs, making it an excellent destination for game viewing.One of the park’s unique highlights is its primates, including the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys, often seen leaping through the montane forests. Blue monkeys and Sykes’ monkeys are also commonly spotted in the wooded areas.
The Momella Lakes provide a sanctuary for hippos and a variety of waterbirds, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons. In the open grasslands, visitors may encounter elephants, waterbucks, and bushbucks grazing peacefully.
Safari Experiences
Birding in Arusha National Park
With over 400 recorded bird species, Arusha National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. From the vibrant Malachite Kingfisher to majestic African fish eagles, the park’s diverse habitats support a rich avian population. The Momella Lakes are especially popular for spotting waterbirds such as flamingos, cormorants, and herons.
Walking Safaris
One of the rare perks of Arusha National Park is the opportunity to embark on a walking safari. Accompanied by an armed ranger, visitors can explore the park on foot, getting up close to wildlife and learning about the park’s flora and fauna. This immersive experience provides an intimate connection with nature and a chance to track animals in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Photography
The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, allowing photographers to capture intimate moments of giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs roaming freely. While large predators are rare, the park offers excellent chances to photograph colobus monkeys leaping through the trees and hippos basking in the Momella Lakes. The dense forests provide opportunities to capture unique primate species, including blue monkeys and olive baboons.
Game Drives
Arusha National Park offers exceptional game drives, allowing visitors to explore its diverse landscapes and spot a variety of wildlife. The park’s unique topography, from lush rainforests and open savannahs to crater lakes, makes every game drive a scenic adventure. Buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and antelopes are frequently seen, while the elusive leopards and hyenas require a keen eye.
