Arusha National Park, Tanzania – Safari, Fees & Best Time to Visit
Located near Arusha city, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most diverse yet underrated safari destinations. Unlike the vast Serengeti, this 552 sq. km park is known for its lush forests, volcanic craters, and shimmering lakes, making it a perfect destination for walking safaris, game drives, and canoeing.
Despite being smaller than Tanzania’s famous parks, Arusha National Park offers a unique safari experience, allowing visitors to get up close to wildlife without the crowds.
Why Visit Arusha National Park?
Arusha National Park is a great alternative to Serengeti and Ngorongoro for travelers who:
Want a short, accessible safari – Located just 45 minutes from Arusha city
Prefer walking & canoe safaris – One of the few Tanzanian parks that allow guided walks
Enjoy birdwatching & diverse landscapes – Features forests, craters, lakes & grasslands
Looking for a pre-Kilimanjaro adventure – Ideal for acclimatization before trekking Mount Kilimanjaro
Top Highlights:
✔ Ngurdoto Crater – Mini version of Ngorongoro, home to buffalo & colobus monkeys
✔ Momella Lakes – Best for canoeing safaris & flamingo spotting
✔ Mount Meru – Tanzania’s second-highest peak offers stunning views
Wildlife in Arusha National Park
Despite being smaller than Serengeti, Arusha National Park is packed with incredible wildlife.
Animals You’ll See:
Herds of giraffes, zebras, and buffalo
Hippos & flamingos at Momella Lakes
Rare primates: Black-and-white colobus monkeys & blue monkeys
Elephants & leopards (harder to spot but present)
Things to Do in Arusha National Park
Game Drives
✔ Explore Ngurdoto Crater & Momella Lakes
✔ Best for seeing giraffes, buffalo, flamingos & antelope
✔ Morning & afternoon game drives available
Walking Safari in Arusha National Park
✔ One of the few parks in Tanzania that allows guided walking safaris
✔ Walk among giraffes, zebras & warthogs with a ranger
✔ Explore the lush forests of Mount Meru
Canoeing Safari in Momella Lakes
✔ Unique way to explore the park from the water
✔ See hippos, flamingos, and rare water birds
✔ Perfect for photographers & birdwatchers
Stay in Comfort – Luxury, Mid-Range & Budget Options
- Choose from high-end safari lodges, mid-range tented camps, or budget-friendly stays.
Arusha National Park Entrance Fees (2025)
| Category | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| International Adults | $50 |
| Children (5-15 years) | $15 |
| East African Residents | $10 |
| Vehicles | $10 – $20 |
How to Get to Arusha National Park
By Road:
Distance from Arusha city: 35 km (45 minutes by car)
Self-drive, taxi, or guided safari tour available
By Air:
Nearest airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – 1-hour drive
Domestic flights land at Arusha Airport (ARK)
Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park
| Season | Months | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Best wildlife viewing, game drives |
| Wet Season | November – May | Green landscapes, fewer tourists |
