Arusha National Park Safari: Worth Visiting? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Explore a Hidden Gem with Mandari Travel
When planning a safari in Tanzania, most travelers immediately think of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire. But nestled just a short drive from the safari hub of Arusha town lies a true hidden gem: Arusha National Park. The question many travelers ask is, “Is Arusha National Park worth visiting?” At Mandari Travel, our answer is a confident yes — and here’s why.
What Makes Arusha National Park Special?
Despite being one of Tanzania’s smaller national parks, Arusha National Park offers a remarkable variety of landscapes, wildlife, and activities — all within a compact area. In just a single day, you can explore lush rainforests, open savannah, crater lakes, and the majestic Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak.
Wildlife You Can Expect to See
While Arusha National Park isn’t home to lions or rhinos, it still boasts an impressive array of animals. The park is known for:
- Giraffes (often in large numbers)
- Zebras
- Buffaloes
- Warthogs
- Blue monkeys
- Colobus monkeys (a highlight you won’t see in many other parks)
- Flamingos and over 400 bird species at Momella Lakes
With fewer predators, this park is perfect for peaceful game drives and walking safaris.
Unique Activities in Arusha National Park
1. Walking Safaris
One of the few parks in Tanzania where guided walking safaris are allowed, Arusha offers the thrilling chance to explore the bush on foot alongside an armed ranger. It’s an intimate way to experience nature and learn about tracks, plants, and animal behavior.
2. Canoeing on Momella Lakes
Imagine paddling quietly past flamingos while giraffes graze on the shore—canoe safaris are a rare and unforgettable experience that Arusha National Park delivers beautifully.
3. Mount Meru Trekking
For adventurous travelers, Mount Meru offers a challenging but rewarding multi-day trek. It’s less crowded than Kilimanjaro and provides incredible views of both the peak and surrounding wildlife.
Ideal for Short Safaris or Day Trips
Because of its proximity to Arusha town (just 45 minutes away), this park is perfect for:
- Travelers short on time
- First-day acclimatization before a longer safari
- Those wanting to avoid long drives
It’s also an excellent addition to a longer safari itinerary, offering a peaceful, scenic break before heading to the busier national parks.
Plan Your Safari with Mandari Travel
At Mandari Travel, we offer customizable Arusha National Park safari packages, including day trips, walking tours, and full Mount Meru treks. Whether you’re looking for a half-day wildlife excursion or an action-packed hiking adventure, we’ve got you covered.
📧 Email: info@mandaritravel
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
