A compact park at the foot of Mount Meru, minutes from Arusha town.
Arusha National Park is the most overlooked park on the Northern Circuit, sitting in the shadow of Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak, just a short drive from Arusha town. Its small size and easy access make it a natural first or last stop for travelers before or after a longer safari.
The park's volcanic scenery ranges from montane forest to open grassland and a chain of shallow alkaline lakes. On a clear day, Kilimanjaro itself is visible on the horizon.
Giraffe, buffalo, and colobus monkeys are common, and Arusha is one of the only parks in Tanzania where canoeing is permitted, alongside guided walking safaris — a nice change of pace from game-drive-only parks.
Around a 45-minute drive from Arusha town, making it an easy half-day trip before flying out or beginning a longer safari.
Arusha National Park entry fees are set by TANAPA and charged per person for a 24-hour period; we confirm current rates when building your itinerary.
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