Arusha National Park
National Park

Arusha National Park

A diverse ecosystem nestled at the foot of Mount Meru.

Tanzania
Location
552 km²
Geographic Size
Dry season
Best Time to Visit

About Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, located in northern Tanzania, offers a compact but diverse safari experience, showcasing a wide range of habitats, from the lush montane forests of Mount Meru to the alkaline Momella Lakes and the rocky alpine desert above the tree line. This park is less frequented by tourists compared to Tanzania's larger national parks, mak...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

December - February
June - October
Best time to go
These months offer clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it an excellent time for both wildlife viewing and hiking.
June - October
High Season
Dry season, providing the best wildlife viewing opportunities and ideal conditions for hiking Mount Meru.
March - May
Low Season
The rainy season, with lush landscapes but challenging conditions for trekking and some wildlife viewing.
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What to do

Wildlife

Arusha National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including large herds of giraffes, zebras, and buffalo, as well as unique primates like the colobus monkey, offering an intimate safari experience against the backdrop of Mount Meru and lush landscapes.

Lion

Not Present

Elephant

Occasional

Black Rhino

Not Present

Cheetah

Not Present

Hippo

Occasional

Hyena

Rare

Leopard

Rare

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Gazelle

Common

Buffalo

Common

Wildebeest

Common

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Arusha National Park is considered safe for visitors, but it's essential to follow the guidelines and instructions of rangers and guides. Standard vaccinations for travel to Tanzania, including Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, are recommended, along with malaria prophylaxis.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
The park is easily accessible by road from Arusha, with the option of using private transport or joining an organized tour. Kilimanjaro International Airport is the nearest international gateway, located about 60 km from Arusha town.
Getting Around
Within the park, travel is by 4x4 vehicles on game drives, on foot for guided walks, or by canoe on the Momella Lakes. Climbing Mount Meru also requires hiking.
Visas
Most visitors to Tanzania require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for many nationalities or in advance through Tanzania's online eVisa portal. Always check the latest visa requirements before your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions