There are plenty of activities and things to do at Arusha National Park, which is just a short drive from Arusha town. an often overlooked destination which stands out as a compact yet captivating introduction to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Spanning 137 square kilometres at the foothills of Mount Meru, the park offers an intimate safari experience that’s perfect for day trips or multi-day explorations. Unlike the vast expanses of Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Arusha’s smaller size allows visitors to immerse themselves in a mosaic of habitats—from lush montane forests and acacia savannas to the alkaline Momella Lakes and the dramatic Ngurdoto Crater—without the crowds. It’s renowned for its unique blend of activities, including some of Tanzania’s rarest offerings like guided walking safaris and canoeing amid hippos. In 2026,2027,2028 and beyond, the park continues to emphasize sustainable tourism, with enhanced ranger-guided experiences and eco-friendly operators promoting low-impact visits.

Is this the safari park for you?

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or seeking a serene contrast to bigger parks, Arusha’s safaris deliver close encounters with wildlife like giraffes (home to one of the world’s largest populations), black-and-white colobus monkeys, Cape buffaloes, zebras, and over 400 bird species, all while fostering a deeper connection to the East African Rift Valley ecosystem.  The dry seasons (June-October and January-February) are ideal for game viewing due to sparser vegetation and animal concentrations around water sources, while the wetter months (March-May, November-December) boost birdwatching with migratory arrivals. Below, we break down the park’s signature safaris and activities.

Arusha National Park Safaris:

Safaris here are flexible, often starting from Arusha lodges or Kilimanjaro International Airport, with costs ranging from USD 200-400 for a full-day private tour (including park fees of about USD 50-60 per adult).

Game Drives at Arusha National Park

The heart of any Arusha safari is the game drive, a quintessential vehicle-based wildlife tour that winds through the park’s varied terrains. These 3-6 hour excursions, led by expert guides in open-sided 4×4 vehicles, offer prime sightings of herbivores like elephants, hippos, warthogs, and waterbucks, plus elusive predators such as leopards and pythons. The “Little Serengeti” grasslands provide open vistas reminiscent of the famous plains, ideal for photography. Early morning or late afternoon drives capture the golden light and peak animal activity, with picnic lunches by the lakes adding a relaxed touch. For a 2025 twist, many operators now integrate digital apps for real-time animal tracking, enhancing the educational aspect. While traditional drives dominate, Arusha’s true allure lies in its walking safaris—one of only a handful permitted in Tanzania’s parks. Armed rangers accompany small groups on foot, revealing details missed from vehicles: the rustle of colobus monkeys in the canopy, intricate bird calls, or giraffe browsing patterns. These hikes often culminate at Tululusia Hill for panoramic views or a refreshing waterfall, blending adventure with cultural history from tribal lookout points. They’re a highlight for nature enthusiasts, emphasising the park’s role as a biodiversity hotspot.

Walking Safaris in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s rare gems for walking safaris, offering intimate, ranger-guided treks through its lush montane forests and crater rims—experiences unavailable in most other parks. These 1-4 hour hikes, led by armed experts, bring you eye-level with giraffes, colobus monkeys, buffaloes, and birds, while showcasing hidden waterfalls and the misty Ngurdoto Crater. Ideal for all levels, they’re unforgettable for their sensory immersion and educational insights into the ecosystem, best enjoyed in the dry season for safer trails.

Top Activities and things to do:

Arusha National Park’s activities cater to all paces, from adrenaline-fueled climbs to serene paddles as Arusha National Park offers a variety of intimate, nature-focused activities that highlight its diverse ecosystems, from misty forests to shimmering lakes. Below is a curated list of the best experiences, based on 2025 visitor recommendations and park updates. Each includes a brief description, ideal duration, and tips for your visit.

  • Guided Walking Safari: Join an armed ranger for a foot exploration of montane trails, getting up close to colobus monkeys, birds, and wildflowers while learning about the park’s flora and fauna. (2-4 hours; limited group sizes for safety and immersion.)
  • Canoe Safari on Momella Lakes: Paddle quietly across the alkaline lakes amid hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, offering a serene, watery perspective on the park’s aquatic life. (1-2 hours; mornings for calmer waters and better wildlife activity.)
  • Ngurdoto Crater Hike: Trek to the rim of this ancient volcanic caldera (nicknamed “Little Ngorongoro”) for sweeping views of mist-shrouded forests and buffalo herds below—descending is not permitted. (1-2 hours; moderate fitness required, dry months preferred.)
  • Mount Meru Climb: Summit Tanzania’s fifth-highest peak (4,562m) via forested trails with viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters; it’s an excellent acclimatization hike for Kilimanjaro aspirants. (3-4 days; book with certified guides for permits and gear.)
  • Birdwatching Tour: Scan for over 400 species, including turacos, rollers, and migratory flocks around the lakes and craters, guided by experts for optimal spotting. (3-4 hours; wet season boosts variety with arrivals.)

Best Time for Wildlife Safaris in Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park thrives as a year-round safari haven, but the dry seasons of June to October and January to February reign supreme for prime wildlife viewing. These months deliver crisp visibility, lush yet navigable trails, and concentrated animal gatherings around waterholes like the Momella Lakes—ideal for spotting giraffes, colobus monkeys, and flamingo flocks without the mud and crowds of rainy periods. In 2025, with stable weather patterns forecasted, these windows offer the ultimate blend of adventure and serenity for your game drives and walks.

What to Pack for your Arusha National Park Safari

What to Pack for Your Arusha National Park SafariArusha National Park’s mix of game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and potential Mount Meru hikes demands versatile, lightweight gear that suits its cool, misty forests and sunny savannas. With 2025 trends leaning toward sustainable, compact items like moisture-wicking fabrics and solar chargers, focus on neutral tones to blend with wildlife and limit luggage to 15kg in a soft duffel for easy handling. Pack for layered comfort—mornings can dip to 10°C (50°F), while afternoons hit 25°C (77°F)—and prioritize sun/insect protection. Here’s a curated essentials list:Clothing (Neutral Colors: Khaki, Olive, Beige)

  • Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun/UV protection during drives and walks.
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts and shorts for warmer activities like canoeing.
  • Fleece or lightweight jacket/sweater for chilly evenings or high-altitude Meru trails.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and buff/scarf for dust and sun.
  • Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or walking shoes for trails; sandals for lodge downtime.

Health & Personal Care

  • High-SPF sunscreen (50+), lip balm with SPF, and aloe vera for post-sun relief.
  • DEET-based insect repellent (essential for tsetse flies in forests).
  • Prescription medications, plus basics like painkillers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal.
  • Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and biodegradable toiletries (e.g., toothpaste, moisturizer).

Essentials & Accessories

  • Binoculars (compact, 8×42 magnification) for spotting colobus monkeys and birds.
  • Headlamp or flashlight for early-morning/late-evening game drives.
  • Reusable water bottle (1L) and daypack for hikes.
  • Compact solar charger or power bank for phone/camera (2025 must-have for off-grid lodges).
  • Camera with extra batteries/SD cards; waterproof bag for canoe safaris.

Documents & Misc

  • Passport, e-tickets, itinerary, and travel insurance details (keep digital backups).
  • Cash (USD/TZS) for tips and fees; credit cards for lodges.
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts) for long days; quick-dry towel.

Pro Arusha safari tip: Roll clothes to save space, and leave valuables at home—lodges often provide laundry. For November 2025’s short rains, add a lightweight poncho. Safe travels—your Arusha adventure starts packed right!