Arusha National Park, located just a short drive from the bustling town of Arusha, is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse parks. Although relatively small at 53 square miles, the park boasts a stunning array of landscapes, from lush montane forests and sparkling lakes to open grasslands and the towering Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak. This scenic variety makes Arusha National Park an ideal destination for a day trip safari, offering visitors a chance to experience multiple ecosystems and abundant wildlife in a compact setting.
Known for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, grazing buffalo herds, and impressive birdlife, Arusha National Park offers a unique blend of wildlife viewing and scenic beauty. The park’s highlights include the Momella Lakes, known for their vibrant flamingo population, and the Ngurdoto Crater, often called the “Little Ngorongoro.” With its peaceful trails, varied habitats, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days, Arusha National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a rich but relaxed safari experience.
📍Day Trip to Arusha National Park Itinerary
7:30 AM – Departure from Arusha Begin your journey with a short morning drive from Arusha town to the entrance of Arusha National Park. As you approach, you’ll start to see the lush landscapes that make this park so unique.
8:00 AM – Arrival at Arusha National Park Arrive at the park entrance, where your guide will handle entry permits and brief you on the day’s itinerary. This is a good time to take a few photos of the scenic surroundings and prepare for the adventure ahead.
8:30 AM – Momella Lakes Game Drive Start your game drive around the Momella Lakes, a series of alkaline lakes that attract a diverse array of birds, including flamingos, herons, and pelicans. This area also offers great views of grazing animals like zebras, giraffes, and buffalo.
10:00 AM – Ngurdoto Crater Viewpoint Head to the Ngurdoto Crater, also known as “Little Ngorongoro,” for breathtaking panoramic views of the crater floor. While visitors cannot descend into the crater, you can often spot animals like buffalo, warthogs, and baboons from above.
11:30 AM – Canoeing on Momella Lakes (Optional) For a unique perspective, consider a guided canoeing experience on the Momella Lakes (optional and available at an additional cost). Paddle through calm waters, getting close to waterbirds and possibly viewing wildlife along the lake’s edge.
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated site within the park, surrounded by scenic landscapes. Take this time to relax, enjoy the sounds of nature, and recharge for the afternoon.
1:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive in the Montane Forest Embark on an afternoon game drive through the park’s dense montane forest, home to the park’s iconic black-and-white colobus monkeys. Keep an eye out for shy bushbucks, red duikers, and other wildlife that thrive in this lush environment.
3:00 PM – Short Nature Walk (Optional) For a more immersive experience, join a guided nature walk, where you can learn about the park’s flora and smaller fauna. Arusha National Park is one of the few places in Tanzania where walking safaris are permitted, allowing you to connect with the park at a closer level.
4:00 PM – Begin Return to Arusha Begin your journey back to Arusha, enjoying the last views of the park and Mount Meru in the distance as you exit.
5:00 PM – Arrival Back in Arusha Arrive back in Arusha, concluding your memorable day trip safari in Arusha National Park.
Price Includes
- ✅ All park entry fees
- ✅ Short walking safari
- ✅ Flying Doctor Service
- ✅ Airport pickup
- ✅ Meals as per the itinerary above
- ✅ English-speaking driver/guide
- ✅ Transport in a 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
- ✅ Bottled drinking water (1.5 liters per person per day during the safari)
- ✅ One-night complimentary hotel accommodation in Arusha upon arrival, including breakfast
Price Does Not Include
- ❌ International and domestic flights
- ❌ Fees for passports, visas, immunizations, and insurance
- ❌ Tips for staff such as driver-guides, chefs, and porters
- ❌ Personal expenses such as souvenirs
Why Choose a Day Trip Safari in Arusha National Park?
A day trip to Arusha National Park is perfect for travelers looking for a rich yet compact safari experience. With its easy access from Arusha town, variety of landscapes, and diverse wildlife, the park offers an excellent introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty. From lakes filled with flamingos to forested trails alive with colobus monkeys, Arusha National Park provides a peaceful and scenic adventure that is sure to leave lasting memories.
PRICE STARTING FROM USD$ 195 PER PERSON IN A JOIN GROUP
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