Nature’s gem at the foot of Mount Meru
Arusha National Park
Tucked between Mount Meru and the bustling city of Arusha lies one of Tanzania’s most overlooked gems — Arusha National Park. Though smaller in size compared to other parks, it offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife within a compact area.
The park’s scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. Towering over it all is Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, offering a dramatic backdrop to every view. To the south lies the impressive Ngurdoto Crater — often called “Little Ngorongoro” — with steep, forested walls and a lush floor teeming with wildlife.
Arusha National Park is a mosaic of habitats, from misty montane forests and open savannahs to shimmering lakes and swamps. This variety makes it home to an equally diverse mix of animals. Visitors often spot giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and a wide range of primates — including the striking black-and-white colobus monkey swinging through the treetops.
What sets this park apart is the range of activities you can enjoy. Unlike most parks in northern Tanzania, Arusha National Park offers guided walking safaris and canoeing trips on Momella Lakes, allowing you to explore the wilderness in a more intimate and active way.