Arusha National Park – A Scenic Gateway to Tanzania Safaris with Rhino Sunset Safari

Arusha National Park is a beautiful and diverse safari destination, best known for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mount Meru, scenic lakes, swamps, waterfalls, and volcanic craters. Though relatively small, the park offers an impressive variety of landscapes and wildlife, making it one of northern Tanzania’s most rewarding national parks.With Rhino Sunset Safari, guests enjoy Arusha National Park for its rich birdlife, wide variety of primates, and unique safari activities such as walking safaris and canoeing. These experiences allow for close and personal wildlife encounters, where zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and other animals can often be observed at ground level in a relaxed and intimate setting.

 

Overview of Arusha National Park

Located in northeastern Tanzania, close to the city of Arusha, Arusha National Park offers spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. Its convenient location makes it an ideal short safari or a perfect introduction to a longer Northern Circuit journey.Rhino Sunset Safari highlights Arusha National Park for its remarkable ecological diversity. Within a compact area, visitors experience lakes, swamps, waterfalls, volcanic craters, mountains, and lush tropical rainforests, a rare combination that supports a wide range of wildlife and plant species.

 

Wildlife & Birdlife Experiences with Rhino Sunset Safari

Arusha National Park is especially famous for its primates, particularly the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys, which are easily spotted in the forest canopy. It is the best location in northern Tanzania to see this species reliably.Birdlife is abundant throughout the park. The swamps, forests, and lakes attract a wide variety of birds, including silvery cheeked hornbills and large flocks of pink-hued flamingos around the Momella Lakes. Rhino Sunset Safari guides tailor walks and canoe experiences to maximise birdwatching opportunities.

 

Mount Meru – Trekking with Rhino Sunset Safari

Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain at 4,566 metres (14,990 feet), lies within Arusha National Park. This dormant volcano offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience.Rhino Sunset Safari can arrange day hikes or full Mount Meru climbs, offering panoramic views over the park’s plains, the Momella Lakes, and on clear days Mount Kilimanjaro. A hike on Mount Meru is an excellent way to add adventure and variety to a safari itinerary.

 

Canoeing & Walking Safaris in Arusha National Park

One of the signature experiences offered by Rhino Sunset Safari in Arusha National Park is the opportunity to enjoy canoe safaris and guided walking safaris, both accompanied by armed rangers.The Momella Lakes are ideal for canoeing, set within open landscapes that are home to hippos, water birds, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Walking safaris provide a deeper connection to nature, allowing guests to observe wildlife, tracks, and plant life from a completely different perspective than traditional game drives.

 

Location & Distances

• Arusha Town to Arusha National Park: 45 minutes’ drive

• Mount Kilimanjaro to Arusha National Park: approximately 50 km (31 miles)

• Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha City: 1 hour drive

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Arusha National Park Facts

• Home to Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain

• Momella Lakes: Seven shallow alkaline lakes

• Ngurdoto Crater: A swampy volcanic crater rich in wildlife

• Clear-day views of Mount Kilimanjaro

• Beautiful volcanic landscapes and rain

• forestIconic giant fig tree forming a natural arch large enough to drive through

 

Excursions & Activities with Rhino Sunset Safari

• Walking safaris

• Canoeing on the Momella Lakes

• Mount Meru trekkingCoffee plantation visits

• Cultural tours around Arusha

• Lake Duluti nature walks

• Mountain biking (2, 3, or 5-hour options)

• Local market visits

 

Travel Times from Arusha National Park

• Arusha National Park to Tarangire / Lake Manyara: 2.5 hours’ drive

• Arusha National Park to Ngorongoro: 3 hours’ drive

• Arusha National Park to Serengeti: 5 hours’ drive or direct flight

 

🌅 Explore Arusha National Park with Rhino Sunset Safari

Whether as a short introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife or a relaxed nature escape before a longer safari, Rhino Sunset Safari designs Arusha National Park experiences that combine scenic beauty, active exploration, and meaningful wildlife encounters.