Exploring Arusha National Park and Mount Meru
Nestled in northeastern Tanzania, Arusha National Park is a picturesque and diverse haven near the city of Arusha, offering stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. This park boasts an impressive array of wildlife and flora amidst varied landscapes including lakes, waterfalls, swamps, volcanoes, mountains, and lush tropical rainforests. Its diverse environments make it a sanctuary for a wide range of species.
The park’s lakes, swamps, and rainforests are particularly alluring to bird enthusiasts, with sightings of silvery-cheeked hornbills and large flocks of pink flamingos. Unique to this area in northern Tanzania, the black-and-white colobus monkey is also commonly observed here.
Mount Meru
Within Arusha National Park lies Mount Meru, a dormant volcano standing at 4,566 meters (14,990 feet), making it Tanzania’s second tallest peak. This majestic mountain presents a challenging climb but rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s plains, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Momella Lakes. For those seeking a less strenuous adventure, day hikes on Mount Meru offer captivating perspectives and a refreshing change of pace. We also organize expeditions to the summit for those looking to reach the peak.
Canoeing and Walking Safaris
Arusha National Park provides exciting safari experiences such as canoeing on the lakes or guided walking safaris with armed rangers. The Momella Lakes, situated in the park’s northeastern part, are ideal for these activities, featuring an abundance of wildlife. Hippos, numerous bird species, bucks, and buffalo are commonly seen around these lakes.
These safaris offer a unique opportunity to experience wildlife from a different vantage point, allowing for a memorable encounter with nature outside the confines of a traditional safari vehicle.
Conveniently located, Arusha town is just a 45-minute drive from the park, and Mount Kilimanjaro is approximately 50 km (31 miles) away.