Photo: neiljs, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia CommonsArusha National Park
Kilimanjaro and Arusha
Arusha National Park is small, about 550 square kilometres, and only about 45 minutes from Arusha, but it packs in forest, crater, lakes and the slopes of Mount Meru, Tanzania's second highest mountain. It's one of the few northern parks where you can walk and canoe.
What to see and do
- Black and white colobus monkeys: In the forest near Ngurdoto Crater.
- Momella lakes: Flamingos and canoe trips on the small alkaline lakes.
- Walking safaris: With an armed ranger among giraffes and buffaloes.
- Mount Meru: A beautiful 3 to 4 day climb, good acclimatisation before Kilimanjaro.
Practical information
| Fee | About US$53 per adult per 24 hours |
| No big cats | There are no lions, so walking is allowed |
| Best months | June to October and December to February |
| Pairs with | A day before a safari, or acclimatisation before Kilimanjaro |
Tip: Use it for your arrival or departure day: it's close to both Arusha and Kilimanjaro airport. See Arusha and Moshi.
Climbing Mount Meru
Mount Meru (4,566 m) is Tanzania's second highest mountain and a superb climb in its own right: 3 or 4 days, sleeping in huts, with an armed ranger because buffaloes and elephants live on the lower slopes. The final ridge to the summit is narrow and exposed, with sunrise views of Kilimanjaro. Many climbers use it to acclimatise before Kilimanjaro.
When to go
June to October and December to February are driest. The park is green and quiet in the rains, but Meru climbs are best avoided from April to May.
Honest downsides
There are no lions, and the big herds of the Serengeti are missing. Treat it as a scenic, active day rather than a full safari.
Where it is
Visiting Arusha National Park on a tour
Most Tanzania safaris start in Arusha, with a driver guide, 4x4 vehicle, camps and park fees arranged for you. Browse them, or ask a local specialist to build Arusha National Park into a trip around your dates.
Combine it with
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Arusha National Park: questions
How long does it take to climb Mount Meru?
Three or four days, sleeping in mountain huts.
Is Arusha National Park worth visiting?
Yes for a spare day: walking safaris, canoeing and colobus monkeys make it a nice contrast to the big parks.
Are there lions in Arusha National Park?
No, which is why walking safaris are possible. There are leopards, but they're rarely seen.