The park is located just 25 kilometres from Arusha city, making it an easy day trip or a perfect stopover for travellers heading to the Serengeti or Mount Kilimanjaro. Despite its proximity to the city, Arusha National Park remains relatively undiscovered compared to Tanzania's more famous parks.
Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania at 4,565 metres, is the park's centrepiece. The mountain offers challenging hikes through montane forest, moorland and alpine desert, with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. The hike is a multi-day experience that requires preparation and is recommended for experienced hikers.
The park is one of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can enjoy a walking safari, offering a more intimate experience with nature. Guided walks allow visitors to explore the forest, see wildlife up close and learn about the park's ecology from experienced guides.
Canoeing on the Momella Lakes offers a unique perspective on the park's wildlife, with visitors able to paddle through the water while observing hippos, waterbirds and the surrounding scenery. The lakes are also home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans and herons.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, zebras and a variety of antelope species. The forest is also home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, which are often seen swinging through the trees.
With reporting from Tanzania National Parks and Lonely Planet.
