Mount Meru
Tanzania's second-highest mountain with scenic hiking opportunities.
Tanzania safari destination
Arusha National Park
Climb Mount Meru and explore diverse ecosystems
Start ExploringTanzania safari destination
Overview
Arusha National Park is a compact but diverse park located at the foothills of Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest mountain. The park features diverse landscapes including green forests, marshes, savannahs, and alpine vegetation, making it one of the most commonly visited conservation areas in East Africa.
Arusha National Park can generally be explored in a day and is a great stand-alone adventure. Some great Activities at Arusha National Park include game driving, canoeing, hiking Mount Meru, and walking safaris. It is one of the few national parks in Tanzania where you can go on walking safaris.
137 km²Area
4,566mMount Meru
400+Bird Species
Why Visit Arusha National Park?
Diverse Landscapes
Forests, marshes, savannahs, and alpine vegetation in one park.
Close to Arusha
Just 35km from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (June to October)
Best for: Clear views of Mount Meru, wildlife spotting, and outdoor activities
Pros
- Excellent visibility of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days; easy wildlife viewing; ideal conditions for hiking and walking safaris; fewer insects.
Cons
- Cooler mornings; vegetation can be less lush; peak visitor period.
Lush scenery, waterfalls, and birdwatching
Best for: Lush scenery, waterfalls, and birdwatching
Pros
- Beautiful green landscapes; abundant birdlife; dramatic cloud-covered mountain scenery; fewer tourists; great photography conditions.
Cons
- Trails can be slippery; rain may affect visibility of Mount Meru; some roads become challenging.
Wildlife
Arusha National Park is home to diverse wildlife species.
Monkeys
Giraffe
Buffalo
Flamingo
Top Attractions
Mount Meru
4,566m peak with dramatic crater views.
Ngurdoto Crater
Mini Ngorongoro with forest and swamp.
Momella Lakes
Seven shallow alkaline lakes attracting flamingos.
Activities
Mount Meru Climbing
Trek Tanzania’s second-highest mountain through lush rainforest and alpine landscapes, offering stunning views and wildlife encounters along the way.
Game Drives
Explore diverse habitats including forests, lakes, and savannahs to spot giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and colobus monkeys in a compact but scenic park.
Walking Safaris
Experience guided nature walks up close with wildlife and landscapes, learning about tracks, plants, and animals in a peaceful, immersive setting.