Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park's Attractions
What to expect in Arusha National Park
Discover the hidden gem of Arusha National Park, where wildlife thrives amidst stunning landscapes. While smaller in size compared to other parks in Tanzania's northern circuit, this park offers a unique safari experience. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive leopards and vibrant birdlife, including the Narina trogon and bar-tailed trogon. With its diverse fauna and picturesque scenery, Arusha National Park promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
A Short History On Arusha National Park
The history of the national park dates back to 1876, when a Hungarian by the name of Count Teleki visited the Momella Area where he commented on aspects of the park such as the large number of hippopotamus and black rhinos he had seen. The Trappe Family moved into the park in 1907 for farming and used major portions of the current park as a cattle ranch. Mrs. Trappe, the first female professional hunter in East Africa, donated a substantial portion of the Momella Estate to a game reserve which was incorporated into the park when it was founded in 1960.
Known at the time as the Ngurdoto Crater National Park, it was established to cover and conserve a few parts of the area such as the Ngurdoto Crater and Mount Meru, which was outside of the park at the time. The name was then changed from Ngurdoto Crater National Park to Arusha National Park in 1967 after Mount Meru was included. After Tanzania's national independence, the park was officially established, and the government developed it into one of the top destinations in Arusha, particularly for those planning to visit the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
When to visit Arusha National Park
Depending on what you want to experience during your time in Arusha National Park, it's good to know what you can expect in different seasons: bird watching in the low season (November to April) or the thrill of the dry season for better wildlife viewing.
During this time, the vegetation is short, giving you a chance to easily view animals. Game viewing trails become easier to drive through, offering great wildlife encounters.
Arusha National Park's Attractions
What to expect in Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is filled with natural wonders and unforgettable adventures. From the lush forests of Mount Meru to the sparkling Momella Lakes, the park offers a stunning variety of landscapes and experiences. Whether you're spotting wildlife on game drives, hiking through verdant trails, or marveling at the rich birdlife, the park has all you need for an unforgettable safari adventure.
Outstanding Wildlife Diversity
Due to the varied landscapes that exist within the park, there is an unusually high level of diversity when it comes to wildlife.
Not only is the park home to Africa's largest giraffe population, but visitors can also expect to see waterbucks, cape buffalo, elephants, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, turacos, trogons, and even the occasional lion or leopard in the right conditions.
Lake Longil
The only freshwater lake in Arusha National Park, Lake Longil is a popular watering hole for buffaloes and waterbucks.
Mt. Meru
An active volcano, Mt. Meru is also a popular climbing destination for visitors to Tanzania and a good introductory mountain for those wishing to climb Kilimanjaro. Not only does the climb offer a spectacular view of Kilimanjaro from the summit, but the hike itself is also an incredibly rewarding walking safari that takes you through multiple habitats where you can encounter giraffes, elephants, antelopes, and more
Ngurdoto Crater
This swampy crater is inhabited by a large variety of animals and is a popular stop for game drives. Visitors can expect to see the Cape Buffalo, elephants, monkeys, baboons, warthogs, and a number of different antelope species here.
The crater is surrounded by the Ngurdoto Forest, a shady expanse that is home to playful black and white colobus monkeys. Nearby is Serengeti Ndogu (Little Serengeti), an expansive grassland where herds of zebras can be seen throughout the year.
Canoeing the Momella Lakes
The Momella Lakes within Arusha National Park are a series of seven shallow lakes: Big Momella, Small Momella, Kusare, Lekandiro, Tulusia, Rishateni, and El Kekhotoito. Alkaline lakes with considerable algae growth, each of these lakes is a different shade of green or blue.
While the water is not suitable for drinking, it is possible to see a variety of birds (including flamingoes) and animals such as waterbucks, giraffes, zebras, and dik-diks in the surrounding area.
Ngurdoto Museum
Overlooking the Ngurdoto Forest with its population of black and white colobus monkeys, the Ngurdoto Museum houses an impressive collection of examples of the various animals, birds, and insects that can be found within the park.
Tululusia Hill
A former lookout point during tribal wars from Tanzania's past, Tululusia Hill is today a popular hiking and camping area that affords visitors an excellent view of the lower reaches of the Arusha National Park as well as Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.
This heavily forested region of the park is home to elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, the red duiker, suni, leopards, and even tree-dwelling pythons.
Fig Tree Arch
A distinctive natural arch formed by a fig tree, this intriguing feature of the landscape has grown into an arch large enough for a car or an elephant to pass under.
Activities Done In Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park's Activities
Game Drives
Experience the beauty of Arusha National Park through game drives that take you across diverse landscapes, from open savannah to dense forests. Spot wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. A game drive provides a unique opportunity to explore the park's flora and fauna up close.
Mountain Climbing
Challenge yourself with a climb up Mount Meru, the fifth-highest mountain in Africa. This adventure offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, diverse wildlife, and unique plant species along the way. The climb takes you through lush forests and across alpine deserts, providing an unforgettable experience for both novice and experienced climbers.
Canoeing
Paddle through the tranquil waters of the Momella Lakes while enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the park's diverse birdlife. Canoeing is a peaceful way to get close to aquatic animals such as hippos and various waterbirds, offering a unique perspective on the park's ecosystems.
Guided Nature Walks
Embark on a guided nature walk with a knowledgeable park ranger and explore the park's flora and fauna up close. Walk along the lush trails, encounter animals like buffaloes, giraffes, and warthogs, and learn about the park's unique plant species. These walks provide an intimate experience of the park's biodiversity and landscapes.
Bird Watching
With over 400 bird species, Arusha National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. From waterbirds such as flamingos and pelicans to forest species like the Narina Trogon, the park offers diverse birdwatching opportunities. Bring your binoculars and enjoy a day of spotting both common and rare species in their natural habitat.
Horseback Riding
Explore the park's scenic landscapes on horseback for a unique and exhilarating experience. Horseback riding allows you to get closer to wildlife without the noise of a vehicle, offering a more natural and immersive adventure. Traverse different terrains, from open plains to wooded trails, and enjoy the serenity of the park.
Arusha National Park is a hidden gem in Tanzania's northern circuit, offering a unique safari experience amidst stunning landscapes. With its diverse fauna, picturesque scenery, and rich history, this park promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. From bird watching to game drives, hiking, and exploring the park's attractions, there's something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of this incredible destination!
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