The Best Arusha National Park Safari Packages with Price/Cost | 2025-2026

Welcome to Arusha National Park

This beautiful Park has often been called a "little germ" and rightly so. It is only ½ an hour by tarmac road from Arusha town, the safari center of Northern Tanzania. With mountains, valleys, lakes, and small plains clothed in green, it has a wonderful feeling of peace and solitude. It is dominated by Mount Meru, which at 4,566 m (14,980 ft) is the 5rd highest free standing mountain in Africa.

Climate of Arusha National Park

The Park can be visited throughout the year; however the best time is between June to September and from December to early March. The short rainy period is from October to November and the heavy rain season is from March to May with annual average rainfall. The park is located at an altitude between 1,700 and 4566 meters.

Getting to Arusha National Park

The Park can be accessed by road or air.

• By Road: From Arusha town to Ngongongare gate, it is about 32 km.
• By Air: It is about 40 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

The Park is gifted with variety of attractions ranging from wildlife inhabiting the wilderness to craters and mountain peaks.

• Black and white colubus monkey
  

  Arusha National Park is a home for these acrobatic Black and White Colobus Monkey. These species contributes into visitors experience during the Park visit because they can easily be spotted. Other animals includes Buffalos, Warthogs and Giraffes

• Mount Meru
  

  The park holds a second highest mountain in Tanzania providing a good chance of exploring mountainous habitats inhabited with different animal and plants species which are differently from those found in lowland.

• Ngurdoto and Meru Craters
  

  This pear-shape Ngurdoto resembling just like a miniature of Ngorongoro crater comprises of five viewing points of mikindu, the Rock, Buffalo, the glade and Leitong being the highest point. From this point the snowy peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Momella lakes and lower slope with human settlement can be easily seen

• Birds (Lesser and greater flamingos in Momela Lakes)
  

  The famous Momela lakes provide home and important feeding ground for both Lesser and greater flamingos. It one of the important site to visit for bird watchers.

• Tululusia Hill and waterfall
  

  Tululusia hill meaning “lookout point” is a view point that provides an excellent view of the lower areas of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru and the majestic Kilimanjaro. Tululusia Waterfall found on a narrow sided valley formed as a result of erosion of a soft volcanic soil leaving behind a steep gorge with the height of 28m (84ft). It’s a home of nesting Red-winged Starlings and having a chance of getting your photos around this natural environment are usually spectacular!

• Lake Longil and Momella lakes
  

  Lake Longil is the only fresh water lake in the park, inhabited with Tilapia fish and also there are Papyrus and Mace reed floating as Islands and changes their positions following the wind directions. The Momella Lakes with different mineral contents supports a different type of algae growth and this gives each lake a different color

• Fig Tree Arch
  

  A striking feature of the Fig Tree Arch (Ficus thoningii) with its roots reaching the ground while leaving behind an arch enough for a car to drive through.

• Ngarenanyuki River (Engare Nanyokie)
  

  This river originating from the montane forest and meru crater contains a brackish resulting from brown/alkaline water sources from the streams which joins the main river outside the park.

• Mountain hiking

This is a 2 night 3 day adventure using the mountain huts Miriakamba and Saddle huts. It has to be prearranged at the Momella Gate requiring porters and an armed Ranger escort. The hike traverses several vegetation zones including beautiful montane forests. Expect to see wildlife en route including buffalo, giraffe, monkeys, baboons, antelope and lots of birds.

• Walking Safari

Arusha National Park is a great place for walking, and a place where one can enjoy natural forests in comfort because of the cool climate. Hiking has to be arranged at one of the 2 Gates. A fee is payable and any walk has to be accompanied by an armed Ranger.

• Canoeing

Canoeing is possible by prior arrangement on Small Momella Lake, with buffao, giraffe, bushbuck, water buck and hippo often seen. Wading and water birds are of course common.

• Horseback riding

Horseback trails have been established and can be combined with overnight stays in camps within the Park (but not the horses). By prior arrangement.

• Game drive

Game drives are possible on a well maintained network of roads and tracks. It is an experience that tourists can get in a day game drive from Arusha Town.

• Bird watching

The Park has more than 450 birds species including both resident and migratory birds. At Small Momella and Longil lakes, both water and non-water birds can be easily sighted.

Timing your Arusha National Park safari adventure correctly is crucial for an optimal wilderness experience. This section covers all the practical details to help you plan a successful journey to this remote paradise.

Best time to visit Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary by season:

Dry Season (June to October):

Best time for walking safaris and clear views of Mount Meru.

Easier wildlife spotting due to sparse vegetation.

Wet Season (November to May):

Lush scenery and spectacular birdwatching.

Fewer tourists mean more exclusive experiences.

March to May is the peak of the long rains—ideal for photographers, but some trails may be slippery.

Can I visit the park in a single day?

Yes, many travelers do a full-day safari from Arusha town and still enjoy a rich experience.

What should I pack for Arusha National Park Safari?

• Lightweight clothing (neutral colors)
• Walking shoes
• Hat & sunglasses
• Binoculars & camera
• Reusable water bottle

What animals can I see in Arusha National Park?

You can spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, flamingos, and more. While it doesn’t host the Big Five, the park is known for its scenic beauty and unique wildlife encounters on foot.

How far is Arusha National Park from Arusha town?

Only about 35 km (21 miles) or a 45-minute drive. It’s the closest national park to Arusha town, making it perfect for half-day or full-day safaris.

Can I combine Arusha National Park with other safaris?

Definitely. Many travelers use Arusha Park as a soft introduction before heading to major parks like Serengeti, Tarangire, or Ngorongoro. It’s also great as a relaxing stop before or after a Kilimanjaro climb.

How much does an Arusha National Park safari cost?

Prices vary based on package type, number of travelers, and included activities. Day trips typically range from $150–$300 per person, while multi-day tours including accommodation and special activities can range from $400–$800+.

Can I book a customized safari?

Yes! We offer tailor-made safaris to fit your schedule, interests, and budget. Just contact us to create your dream Arusha National Park experience.