Arusha National Park safari – An underrated natural paradise
Just about 45 minutes from the city of Arusha lies one of northern Tanzania’s most beautiful and least crowded safari destinations: Arusha National Park. The park offers a surprisingly diverse landscape of dense rainforest, open savannah, sparkling lakes and the impressive slopes of Mount Meru.
The perfect start to a safari in northern Tanzania
As soon as you enter the park, its remarkable variety becomes clear. While many of East Africa’s famous parks are dominated by vast savannahs, Arusha National Park surprises visitors with an exceptional combination of different landscapes.
Large groups of curious monkeys live in the lush mountain rainforest. Black-and-white colobus monkeys are particularly common, gracefully moving through the treetops. With a little luck, you may also spot blue monkeys or hear other wildlife moving through the dense canopy.
Further into the park, the landscape opens up into gentle savannah. Giraffes, zebras and buffalo can often be seen grazing in small herds. Unlike many of the larger national parks, wildlife viewing here feels particularly relaxed – and you often have the animals almost entirely to yourself.
The impressive Momella Lakes – flamingos against a volcanic backdrop
One of the park’s highlights is the group of seven shallow Momella Lakes. The alkaline lakes change colour depending on the time of day, ranging from turquoise to soft shades of pink.
Large groups of flamingos and numerous other waterbirds can often be seen here. With Mount Meru rising in the background, the scenery creates an almost surreal setting that is particularly appealing to photographers and nature lovers.
Mount Meru – Tanzania’s quiet giant
Towering above the park is Mount Meru, rising to 4,566 metres. It is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain after the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. Its forested slopes dominate the landscape throughout the park.
For those looking for adventure, Mount Meru offers a multi-day trek to the summit. But even during a safari through the national park, the views of this impressive volcano are a memorable experience.
A walking safari – a special experience
One of the special features of Arusha National Park is the opportunity to take part in a guided walking safari. Accompanied by a ranger, you explore the landscape on foot and experience the park from a completely different perspective.
You become much more aware of the details around you: the sound of branches breaking beneath your feet, birds calling in the forest and, sometimes, giraffes or buffalo surprisingly close by.
A perfect introduction to a Tanzania safari
Many travellers visit Arusha National Park as the beginning of a larger safari through northern Tanzania, perhaps before continuing to the famous Serengeti National Park or the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater.
But the park is much more than just a stopover. Its peaceful atmosphere, diverse landscapes and close proximity to Arusha make it a real insider tip for safari lovers.
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