Departure: 8:00 AM from Arusha
Return: Late Afternoon
Duration: Full Day
Location: Arusha National Park, Northern Tanzania
Tour Type: Private or Group Safari
Overview
Discover the hidden beauty of Arusha National Park, a diverse and compact gem just 45 minutes from Arusha town. This full-day safari offers a mix of wildlife viewing, nature walks, canoeing, and stunning scenery—including the majestic slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak. Perfect for travelers looking to enjoy nature and wildlife without venturing far, this tour combines game drives with optional activities that bring you closer to the natural world.
Itinerary – Full-Day Arusha National Park Experience
8:00 AM – Hotel Pickup and Drive to Arusha National Park
Your guide will pick you up from your Arusha accommodation and drive you to the entrance of Arusha National Park. After registration at the gate, your adventure begins.
Morning to Afternoon – Game Drive and Park Exploration
Arusha National Park may be smaller than others on the Northern Safari Circuit, but it offers a rich variety of ecosystems—from lush montane forests and crater lakes to open grasslands and alpine highlands. While it may not offer the Big Five in one place, it’s an ideal destination for:
- Buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and warthog sightings
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys, often seen in the forest canopy
- Over 400 species of birds, including flamingos on Lake Momella
- Occasional sightings of elephants, waterbuck, bushbuck, and klipspringer
- Stunning views of Mount Meru and, on clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance
Midday – Picnic Lunch in the Park
Enjoy a relaxing packed lunch at one of the scenic picnic sites, with panoramic views and the sounds of the forest around you.
Afternoon – Optional Activities (on request)
In addition to your game drive, Arusha National Park offers several optional experiences to enhance your visit:
- Canoeing on Lake Momella: Glide across a serene alkaline lake surrounded by flamingos and dramatic landscapes
- Guided Walking Safari: A chance to explore the park on foot with an armed ranger and see wildlife up close
- Waterfall Visits: Short hikes to picturesque waterfalls flowing from Mount Meru’s slopes
- Ngurdoto Museum: Learn about the region’s ecology, geology, and history
- Mount Meru Day Hike: For active travelers, enjoy a light trek along the mountain trails with sweeping views
These activities can be tailored to your interests and time availability.
Late Afternoon – Return to Arusha
After a day immersed in the sights and sounds of nature, you’ll head back to your hotel in Arusha by late afternoon, filled with unique memories and a deeper appreciation for Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Why Choose This Arusha National Park Day Tour?
- Only 45 minutes from Arusha town—no long drives
- Perfect mix of safari, scenery, and soft adventure
- Great for families, photographers, and nature lovers
- Offers a less crowded and more intimate experience
- Led by professional, knowledgeable local guides