How close is Arusha NP to the city?

It is remarkably close, usually a 45-60 minute drive from the city centre, making it the perfect choice for a day trip or a short introduction to the Tanzanian wild.

Is it possible to hike Mt. Meru?

Yes, Arusha NP is the gateway for Mt. Meru climbs. It usually takes 3 to 4 days to reach the summit, and it is considered a great warm-up for Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Are there elephants in Arusha NP?

While elephants are present, they are more elusive here than in Tarangire or Serengeti. You are much more likely to see giraffes, buffalos, and colobus monkeys.

Arusha National Park

Northern Circuit Destination

About Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, but it is one of Tanzania's most beautiful and diverse gems. Located just a short drive from the city, it offers a dramatic landscape that shifts from montane forest and alkaline lakes to the towering volcanic peak of Mt. Meru, Africa's fifth highest mountain. It is a place of shadows and mist, where the silence is only broken by the calls of birds and the rustle of the canopy.\n\nThe park is famous for its population of black-and-white colobus monkeys, whose long flowing tails and acrobatic leaps through the ancient moss-draped trees are a delight to watch. Unlike the open plains of the Serengeti, Arusha NP is an intimate experience, where you can explore the Ngurdoto Crater, often called the 'Little Ngorongoro', and the seven Momella Lakes, each with a different hue of blue or green due to their varying mineral content.\n\nFor those seeking adventure, the multi-day climb of Mt. Meru provides a challenging but rewarding trek through diverse ecological zones. On clear days, the views of Mt. Kilimanjaro from the slopes of Meru are unparalleled. It is the perfect introduction to the Tanzanian wild, whether for a day trip or as the starting point for a longer northern circuit expedition.