Destination Zone
Northern Circuit
Best Time to Go
June to October
High Season
July to March
Nearest Airport
Kilimanjaro Int. Airport
Price Range
$240 to $5000
About Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, located in the northern part of Tanzania, is a small yet diverse park that offers a range of landscapes and wildlife experiences. Covering an area of 137 square kilometers, it is known for its stunning scenery, which includes the forested slopes of Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, as well as open savannah, lakes, and lush wetlands. The park is unique due to its combination of habitats, allowing visitors to experience a wide variety of landscapes and ecosystems in a relatively compact area.
The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of monkeys, such as the black-and-white colobus monkey. While it does not host the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes), Arusha National Park is still an incredible destination for safari enthusiasts looking for a more intimate and peaceful experience. The park is also a great place for birdwatching, with over 400 species of birds recorded. Its close proximity to Arusha town makes it an ideal day-trip destination for visitors wanting to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty without venturing too far from the city.
When is the best time to visit Arusha National Park
The best time to visit Arusha National Park largely depends on the kind of experience you seek. The dry season, from June to October, is the most popular time to visit the park, as it allows for excellent game viewing. During this period, the vegetation is thinner, and animals are concentrated around the park’s water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is generally sunny and warm, making it an ideal time for safaris.
Alternatively, the wet season, from November to May, offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. The park becomes lush and green, and while some areas may be less accessible due to rain, this is also the time when many animals give birth, creating opportunities for observing newborns. Additionally, the wet season is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in the park. The park’s diversity of habitats, from forests to wetlands, becomes more vibrant during the rainy season, making it an ideal time for nature lovers who appreciate flora and birdlife.
Weather and Climate in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park enjoys a temperate climate due to its varied elevations, from the savannah plains to the slopes of Mount Meru. The weather is mild and pleasant year-round, but conditions vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Temperatures in the park generally range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with cooler temperatures at higher elevations, especially near Mount Meru.
The wet season lasts from November to May, with the heaviest rains falling between March and May. During this period, the park becomes lush and green, with abundant plant life and water, making it a great time for birdwatching and photography. The dry season, from June to October, is marked by warm and dry weather, making it the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the water sources, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Why visit Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking a diverse and intimate safari experience in a relatively small, accessible park. The combination of various ecosystems—forest, wetlands, and savannah—makes it unique and perfect for visitors interested in experiencing different habitats in a short amount of time. The park’s proximity to Arusha town makes it a convenient day trip for travelers on tight schedules.
Although Arusha National Park doesn’t boast the Big Five, it offers incredible wildlife experiences, including sightings of giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and monkeys. The park is also famous for its incredible birdlife, with over 400 species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s volcanic landscapes and stunning views of Mount Meru provide breathtaking scenery, adding to its charm. For those who love hiking, the opportunity to explore the slopes of Mount Meru is a major attraction, with trails suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers.
Reasons to visit Arusha National Park:
- Mount Meru Views: The park offers spectacular views of Mount Meru, a dormant volcano that is often overshadowed by Mount Kilimanjaro but is an adventure in its own right.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys, the park provides excellent wildlife sightings.
- Birdwatching: With over 400 bird species, including migratory birds, Arusha National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Less Crowded: Compared to other national parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Arusha is smaller and less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Scenic Beauty: The park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to open savannah, provide beautiful scenery and photography opportunities.
- Mount Meru Trekking: For adventure seekers, climbing or hiking on Mount Meru provides a challenge and an opportunity to experience Tanzania’s wilderness from a unique perspective.
Things to Do in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers several activities that cater to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The most popular activity is the traditional game drive, which allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and the various primates that inhabit the forested areas. The park is also a prime location for walking safaris, where visitors can explore the park on foot and learn more about the smaller aspects of nature, such as animal tracks, plants, and insects, under the guidance of an experienced ranger.
Birdwatching is a highlight for many visitors to the park, as its variety of habitats attracts a wide range of bird species. Over 400 species have been recorded, including migratory species, making it a prime destination for avid birdwatchers. For those seeking more adventure, hiking or trekking Mount Meru is a popular activity. Though not as famous as Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a challenging but rewarding climb, with stunning views and wildlife encounters along the way.
Top Activities and Things to Do in Arusha National Park:
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the savannah to the forests, while spotting wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and monkeys.
- Guided Walking Safaris: Take a walking safari with an expert guide and discover the smaller details of the park’s ecosystems, such as animal tracks and plant life.
- Birdwatching: With over 400 species of birds, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering opportunities to see migratory species and rare birds.
- Mount Meru Trekking: Trek up Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, for a challenging climb and incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and breathtaking views of Mount Meru, making Arusha National Park a great destination for photographers.
- Cultural Visits: Visit nearby local communities to learn about the culture and traditions of the people living around the park.
How to Get to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is conveniently located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Arusha town, making it one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania. The park can be reached by road from Arusha, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes. Many visitors choose to visit Arusha National Park on a day trip, especially if they are staying in Arusha or are passing through on their way to other destinations such as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.
Visitors can also fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is about an hour’s drive from Arusha. From there, travelers can easily reach the park by car or join guided safari tours that include transportation to and from the park.
Ways to Get to Arusha National Park:
- By Road (Self-Drive): Drive from Arusha town; the park is just a short 30-minute drive away.
- Guided Safari Tours: Join a guided safari that includes transportation to and from Arusha National Park.
- By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and drive to the park, which is around an hour away.
Where to Stay when Visiting Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Many of the accommodations are located near the park entrance, allowing for easy access to game drives and other activities. There are a variety of lodges, from budget-friendly campsites to more luxurious lodges, giving visitors a range of options for their stay.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, there are tented camps and lodges offering comfort and stunning views of the park’s landscapes. Some lodges are located with a direct view of Mount Meru, adding to the appeal for those seeking a unique safari experience.
When is the best time to visit Arusha National Park
The best time to visit Arusha National Park largely depends on the kind of experience you seek. The dry season, from June to October, is the most popular time to visit the park, as it allows for excellent game viewing. During this period, the vegetation is thinner, and animals are concentrated around the park’s water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is generally sunny and warm, making it an ideal time for safaris.
Alternatively, the wet season, from November to May, offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. The park becomes lush and green, and while some areas may be less accessible due to rain, this is also the time when many animals give birth, creating opportunities for observing newborns. Additionally, the wet season is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in the park. The park’s diversity of habitats, from forests to wetlands, becomes more vibrant during the rainy season, making it an ideal time for nature lovers who appreciate flora and birdlife.
Weather and Climate in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park enjoys a temperate climate due to its varied elevations, from the savannah plains to the slopes of Mount Meru. The weather is mild and pleasant year-round, but conditions vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Temperatures in the park generally range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with cooler temperatures at higher elevations, especially near Mount Meru.
The wet season lasts from November to May, with the heaviest rains falling between March and May. During this period, the park becomes lush and green, with abundant plant life and water, making it a great time for birdwatching and photography. The dry season, from June to October, is marked by warm and dry weather, making it the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the water sources, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Why visit Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking a diverse and intimate safari experience in a relatively small, accessible park. The combination of various ecosystems—forest, wetlands, and savannah—makes it unique and perfect for visitors interested in experiencing different habitats in a short amount of time. The park’s proximity to Arusha town makes it a convenient day trip for travelers on tight schedules.
Although Arusha National Park doesn’t boast the Big Five, it offers incredible wildlife experiences, including sightings of giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and monkeys. The park is also famous for its incredible birdlife, with over 400 species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s volcanic landscapes and stunning views of Mount Meru provide breathtaking scenery, adding to its charm. For those who love hiking, the opportunity to explore the slopes of Mount Meru is a major attraction, with trails suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers.
Reasons to visit Arusha National Park:
- Mount Meru Views: The park offers spectacular views of Mount Meru, a dormant volcano that is often overshadowed by Mount Kilimanjaro but is an adventure in its own right.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys, the park provides excellent wildlife sightings.
- Birdwatching: With over 400 bird species, including migratory birds, Arusha National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Less Crowded: Compared to other national parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Arusha is smaller and less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Scenic Beauty: The park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to open savannah, provide beautiful scenery and photography opportunities.
- Mount Meru Trekking: For adventure seekers, climbing or hiking on Mount Meru provides a challenge and an opportunity to experience Tanzania’s wilderness from a unique perspective.
Things to Do in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers several activities that cater to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The most popular activity is the traditional game drive, which allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and the various primates that inhabit the forested areas. The park is also a prime location for walking safaris, where visitors can explore the park on foot and learn more about the smaller aspects of nature, such as animal tracks, plants, and insects, under the guidance of an experienced ranger.
Birdwatching is a highlight for many visitors to the park, as its variety of habitats attracts a wide range of bird species. Over 400 species have been recorded, including migratory species, making it a prime destination for avid birdwatchers. For those seeking more adventure, hiking or trekking Mount Meru is a popular activity. Though not as famous as Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a challenging but rewarding climb, with stunning views and wildlife encounters along the way.
Top Activities and Things to Do in Arusha National Park:
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the savannah to the forests, while spotting wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and monkeys.
- Guided Walking Safaris: Take a walking safari with an expert guide and discover the smaller details of the park’s ecosystems, such as animal tracks and plant life.
- Birdwatching: With over 400 species of birds, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering opportunities to see migratory species and rare birds.
- Mount Meru Trekking: Trek up Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, for a challenging climb and incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and breathtaking views of Mount Meru, making Arusha National Park a great destination for photographers.
- Cultural Visits: Visit nearby local communities to learn about the culture and traditions of the people living around the park.
How to Get to Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is conveniently located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Arusha town, making it one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania. The park can be reached by road from Arusha, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes. Many visitors choose to visit Arusha National Park on a day trip, especially if they are staying in Arusha or are passing through on their way to other destinations such as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.
Visitors can also fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is about an hour’s drive from Arusha. From there, travelers can easily reach the park by car or join guided safari tours that include transportation to and from the park.
Ways to Get to Arusha National Park:
- By Road (Self-Drive): Drive from Arusha town; the park is just a short 30-minute drive away.
- Guided Safari Tours: Join a guided safari that includes transportation to and from Arusha National Park.
- By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and drive to the park, which is around an hour away.
Where to Stay when Visiting Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Many of the accommodations are located near the park entrance, allowing for easy access to game drives and other activities. There are a variety of lodges, from budget-friendly campsites to more luxurious lodges, giving visitors a range of options for their stay.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, there are tented camps and lodges offering comfort and stunning views of the park’s landscapes. Some lodges are located with a direct view of Mount Meru, adding to the appeal for those seeking a unique safari experience.
Let's plan your trip to Tanzania
Our team of Safari specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made trip.
Photos of Arusha National Park
Suggested itinerary featuring Arusha National Park
No results found.
Other Popular Destinations to Visit in Tanzania
Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Tanzania, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.
Happy Travelers Share Their Experiences
We have been receiving outstanding reviews from our clients, and Eastland Adventures is proudly rated 5/5 by our customers. This honor is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our clients’ safari experiences is fully tailored to their needs. We go above and beyond to make sure their adventure is nothing short of exceptional and satisfying.
Kellie F2025-07-23Kilimanjaro Lemosho route, four day safari and balloon flight over Serengeti! Please do not look past this company! They were so attentive and supportive for our team of ten on the Kilimanjaro climb and safari tour. Before we even finished our sentence if we went to make a request, it was being acted upon! They fully understand the hiker experience and do everything in their power to make it the most enjoyable and rewarding journey right from the moment you step off the plane.A++ rating from our whole team!Sally M2025-07-15Amazing adventure Hi Daniel and team, I would just like to say thank you for the amazing experience that I had with Eastland Adventures and Take Shape Adventures. Your team of guides and porters were absolutely fantastic. I especially love the conversations that I was able to have with Tlusa, David and Leo. I really appreciated Tlusa sharing his family stories with me and through David I have a much better understanding of Tanzania. The summit day, was exhilarating and very tiring, talking to David really helped me enjoy the walk down from the summit. Thank you so much to all your team, you have made my holiday absolutely incredible. Thanks SallyGill2025-07-13Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for climbing Kilimanjaro and 4-day Safari Climbing Kilimanjaro : Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for their attention to detail, skilled team and extraordinary service while climbing Kilimanjaro - what an awesome fun team they have - always thinking ahead to what we need each day, monitoring our health, keeping us safe, encouraged and well fed at all times.4-day Safari : also excellent, our driver George knew the tracks so well and took us to so so many animals and safe picnic locations. We never felt rushed and were able to take our time for photos and just observing. He always checked with us before moving on.Bridget2025-07-12Incredible Kilimanjaro Experience & outstanding Safari People are sincere, helpful & professional. All guides and staff are of the highest standard & make sure you are having a wonderful time & safe at all times. Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro & for Safari.Melle W2025-05-1411/10 RECOMMEND EASTLAND ADVENTURES for Kili climb! ❤️ Safe, knowledgeable, prepared, fun & successful! Climbing Kilimanjaro with Eastland Adventures was the experience of a lifetime. We were amazed by the large support team—many hands truly made light work. The guides were knowledgeable, fun, and incredibly supportive. They knew every detail of the mountain and made us feel safe at every step. Summit day was no joke, but when we got stuck, they carried our packs (on top of there's!!) when we struggled (still makes me tear up), helping us reach the top. The food was incredible (especially for being on a mountain!), and the accommodations before the climb were clean and secure. Everything was thoughtfully organized—even personalized mugs! Can’t recommend them enough. Feel free to message on IG: @mellewilliamson.Miguel2025-03-29Eastland Adventures made our Kilimanjaro dreams come true! Words cannot express our appreciation for the incredible trekking experience with Eastland Adventures that made our Kilimanjaro summit dreams come true. The exceptional care, attention to detail, and remarkable expertise was truly amazing. We are so grateful and would 100% recommend them for your Kilimanjaro climb! As we were planning our trip, we researched various trekking companies and a family member referred us to Eastland Adventures. We are so happy we chose them. From the beginning, communication with Daniel, founder and CEO, was phenomenal. Correspondence was timely, thoughtful, detailed, and very helpful. Our lead guide David and assistant guide Walter were absolutely incredible and shared so much with us during our expedition. They were patient, knowledgeable, and caring. Their encouragement and experience was instrumental in creating a successful and fun adventure. We truly appreciated the way our guides taught us about the mountain, the people, and the culture. In addition to our amazing guides, the entire team of porters were superhuman, demonstrating remarkable strength and endurance. Carrying individual packs while balancing heavy loads on their heads, the team was truly inspiring. Their specialized skills ensured our comfort and well-being from setting up camp to crafting delicious meals to providing a portable clean toilet. It was wonderful to experience their camaraderie and joy, and the team's dedication to service was evident in every detail. Shout out to team Calimanjaro: Boniface, Jackson, Langaeli, Walle, Joseph, Ali, Oswald, John, Matei, and Shedrac. Mashujaa for life! In December 2024, we completed the 7-day Rongai route, which was great for acclimatization and to enjoy the Kilimanjaro adventure without feeling rushed. After our progress on the first day and with our guides' advice, we were able to spend two nights rather than one at a higher elevation to acclimatize better, which made our Kilimanjaro adventure even more successful. On summit night, we hiked up with our guides and support porters. Summit night/day was a challenging climb for us because of the altitude, and we would not have made it to the summit without our summit team. They were encouraging, patient, and supportive. Reaching the summit was a dream come true! Overall, it was an experience of a lifetime. Eastland Adventures went above and beyond what we could have ever imagined. Asante Sana Eastland Adventures!- Aarika and MiguelSM-nj-USA2025-03-25Enquiry how are their Serengeti safari tours? Any experiences with these : bookings, tour , deposits etc? Are they dependable? They are asking for multiple deposits.Navigator1810332024-03-12Amazing once in a lifetime experience! Daniel at Eastland ensured that we were very comfortable during our entire trip. He arranged everything from transportation, lodging, knowledgeable mountain guides, fantastic cook, and amazing porters. We had a small group of family (only 3 of us). We didn't know what to expect landing in Tanzania for the first time, but felt very welcome and gained some new local family. Everything was on-time and as scheduled. We were fed like royalty and had, the always welcome, coffee and tea in the morning and tea time in the evening. The whole experience was once in a lifetime and we are sure we chose the correct outfit. The views spoke for themselves. We had ideal weather.John B2024-03-06Awesome!!!! Great time all round! Porters, guides, drivers were friendly and professional. Food, campsites, sleeping tents, toilets all very good. Climbing Kilimanjaro was both beautiful and brutal especially on way down! I only wish we had taken more time with the safari and stayed longer. Really an existential experience we will never forget. Asante Tanzania!SuziCNM2024-03-05Truly the trip of a lifetime. BOOK NOW!!! After our Kili hike, we chose to run in the Moshi marathon. Then, we departed on Safari for 4 days. MINDS BLOWN!!! Our driver Raymond was amazing! The roads to and from the national parks are CHALLENGING, and those within the park even more so. Be prepared for lots of bumps and mud, but the reward is MORE THAN WORTH IT!!! The Serengeti is never ending, and has more animals that you can even imagine. Ngorongoro is not to be missed either. Each and every detail was planned for us, which made it easier for us to really enjoy all that the country has to offer. DO NOT HESITATE to consider Eastland for your Tanzania adventure!!! Locally owned and operated!!
Why Book Tours With Eastland Adventures
Welcome to Eastland Adventures! We create unforgettable trips across Tanzania, from Kilimanjaro climbs and wildlife safaris to relaxing beach holidays. With our local expertise and carefully planned tours, we help you explore Tanzania’s nature, culture, and hidden gems with ease and comfort.
Tailor-Made Journeys
We create personalized tours that match your interests and style, whether it’s climbing Kilimanjaro, exploring wildlife, or immersing yourself in local culture. Every trip is designed with care for a truly unique adventure.
Trusted Local Expertise
With experienced guides and deep knowledge of Tanzania, we ensure safe, seamless, and unforgettable travel. From mountains to safaris and beaches, you’ll explore with confidence and authenticity.
Authentic Local Experiences
Experience Tanzania through the eyes of expert local guides who take you beyond tourist spots to hidden gems, cultural encounters, and authentic adventures.
Seamless & Stress-Free Travel
From planning to departure, every detail of your trip is handled with care, ensuring smooth logistics, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable memories.
