ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

Arusha National Park, nestled in northern Tanzania and just a quick journey from the energetic city of Arusha, is a truly underestimated treasure. Its compact expanse is deceptive, as it holds a wide array of landscapes and a plethora of wildlife, each element sure to leave a lasting impression on any nature lovers.

Although smaller than other Tanzanian national parks, Arusha National Park is brimming with diverse wildlife. It provides a delightful wildlife viewing experience where you can encounter giraffes, zebras, elephants, and buffalos, and even catch a glimpse of the secretive leopard. A standout sight in this park is the local black and white colobus monkeys, a species unique to this region. The park is also a refuge to many antelope species, including the remarkable eland and the emblematic waterbuck.

As an avian haven, Arusha National Park houses not less than 400 bird species in its natural habitat. Its diverse environments, ranging from mountainous forests to grasslands and lakes, accommodate many bird species. Visitors to the park can anticipate sightings of the glorious African fish eagle, the flamboyant flamingo, the grey-headed kingfisher, and the crested francolin among others. The wet season, when many native birds commence breeding, is the prime time for birdwatching. This makes the park an exceptional site for any birding safari.

The best time to explore Arusha National Park falls between June to October, during the dry season. This period offers moderate weather conditions and provides optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals congregate around available water sources. However, if ornithology is your primary interest, the wet season spanning November to May would be most ideal. During this phase, the park is enveloped in lush verdure, attracting numerous migratory bird species to the flourishing surroundings.

Positioned a brief distance from the city of Arusha, the strategically located This beautiful National Park presents easy accessibility for travelers. The closest international gateway is the Kilimanjaro International Airport, approximately an hour’s commute away. Upon landing, arrangements for land travel provisions to the park can be easily made. Also, for those journeying from nearby attractions such as Tarangire,Lake Manyara, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro Conservation Area, road transfers provide a convenient option to reach the park.

This National Park, similar to various regions in Tanzania, is situated in an area susceptible to malaria. Therefore, it’s crucial to adopt preventive measures and seek healthcare advice prior to your visit. Using insect-repelling sprays, wearing clothes that cover most of your body, and sleeping beneath mosquito nets can help mitigate the risk of malaria. Moreover, while the park is generally secure, visitor safety is paramount. Hence, adhering to advice from park rangers and acting cautiously around wildlife is strongly recommended. Discover more about previous visitor experiences by checking our TripAdvisor reviews.