Itinerary for best 3-Day Arusha National Park Safari with Canoeing
Day 1: Arrival & Game Drive – Into the Forests of Arusha National Park
Highlights: Transfer from Arusha, forest game drive, Ngurdoto Crater view, colobus monkey spotting
Depart your hotel in Arusha after breakfast and drive approximately 45 minutes to Arusha National Park. Upon arrival at the park gate, your guide will handle entry formalities while you stretch and enjoy the fresh forest air. Begin your safari with a slow-paced game drive through the lush montane rainforest, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and abundant birdlife. Ascend to the rim of Ngurdoto Crater for sweeping views of the caldera and continue through open savannah and acacia woodlands.
In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot overlooking Mount Meru, followed by a visit to the Momella Lakes, where flamingos and waterbirds gather. Your guide will share insights on the park’s geology, flora, and fauna throughout the journey.
Included Activities:
- Private transfer from Arusha town or Kilimanjaro Airport
- Full-day guided game drive with interpretation
- Visit to Ngurdoto Crater Viewpoint and Momella Lakes
- Park entry and concession fees
Overnight: Mid-range lodge or tented camp near the park (e.g., Hatari Lodge or equivalent)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Canoeing & Walking Safari – Active Exploration in the Wild
Highlights: Guided canoe safari, walking safari with ranger, picnic lunch in the bush
After an early breakfast, head to the Momella Lakes for a serene canoeing adventure. Paddle gently along the tranquil lake shoreline, keeping an eye out for hippos, flamingos, and other aquatic birds, with Mount Meru towering in the distance. This is a rare Safari experience in Tanzania and offers a peaceful perspective of the park's wetlands.
Later in the morning, meet your armed ranger for a guided walking safari. Traverse forested trails and open clearings while observing giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs at eye level. Learn about medicinal plants, animal tracks, and the park’s ecological significance from your expert ranger. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in a designated bush area.
Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for relaxation or optional cultural activities depending on your lodge’s offerings.
Included Activities:
- 1–2 hour canoeing safari on Momella Lakes
- Guided walking safari with armed ranger (2–3 hours)
- Bush picnic lunch and refreshments
- All applicable activity fees and ranger costs
Overnight: Mid-range lodge or tented camp near the park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Final Game Drive & Departure – Farewell to the Foothills of Meru
Highlights: Sunrise wildlife viewing, cultural village (optional), return to Arusha
Wake up early for a golden-hour game drive, when animals are most active. Watch giraffes stretching above the morning mist, and perhaps catch a glimpse of shy forest dwellers like bushbucks or duikers. Depending on your schedule, you may opt to visit a local cultural village en route or stop at a craft market for souvenirs.
After breakfast at your lodge, check out and drive back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport, arriving around midday. Your guide will ensure a smooth drop-off and help you with any post-safari arrangements or onward travel support.
Included Activities:
- Early morning game drive
- Optional local village or cultural center visit
- Transfer back to Arusha town or airport
Overnight: Not included (end of safari)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Add-Ons (Pre/Post Tour)
- Mount Meru trekking extension
- Cultural visit to a Maasai village near Arusha
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Essential Packing List for Arusha National Park Safari
- Light, breathable clothing (neutral colors)
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Light jacket or fleece for cool mornings/evenings
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Camera, binoculars, power bank
- Passport, travel insurance, and local currency
- Reusable water bottle and small day backpack
Tip: Pack light — small aircraft have baggage limits (usually 15kg soft bags).