Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, in northern Tanzania, is a beautiful natural reserve recognized for its various landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park covers 137 square kilometers and is ideally located at the base of Mount Meru, which provides a dramatic background for its diverse topography, which ranges from lush rainforests to wide savannahs and tranquil lakes. Due to its closeness to Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti, the park is a popular destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and hikers.

Mount Meru, Tanzania’s fifth-highest mountain, is a popular tourist destination with a demanding but rewarding journey. The mountain’s slopes have a variety of habitats, from dense montane forests to alpine meadows, and it is frequently used as a training ground for climbers aiming to conquer Kilimanjaro. Giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of primates, notably the black-and-white colobus monkey, are among the park’s other highlights. Arusha National Park also has a diverse bird population, including the violet-capped starling and the African fish eagle.

Another notable feature in the park is the Ngurdoto Crater, sometimes known as the “Small Ngorongoro.” This volcanic caldera is a wildlife paradise with stunning vistas, with buffalo and wildebeest herds typically grazing on its bottom. Another popular site is the Momella Lakes, a set of seven tiny lakes inside the park that serve as a feeding place for flamingos. In addition, the park provides activities such as canoeing, walking safaris, and wildlife drives, offering a more intimate and immersive encounter with nature than bigger, more crowded parks.

Overall, Arusha National Park is a hidden gem that provides a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure, all within easy reach of Tanzania’s main safari routes.