+255 657 856 236 Railway Road, Moshi, Kilimanjaro

Arusha National Park Day Trip

A Perfect One-Day Safari Adventure

Full Day (8-10 hours)
All Group Sizes
Walking Safari Available

TOUR OVERVIEW

Experience the diverse beauty of Arusha National Park, a hidden gem nestled at the base of Mount Meru. This full-day safari offers stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the unique opportunity to explore on foot with a walking safari.

🏔️

Mount Meru Views

Marvel at Tanzania's second-highest mountain with spectacular crater and ash cone formations.

🦒

Diverse Wildlife

Spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, and the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys.

🚶

Walking Safari

Get up close with nature on a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger.

💧

Momella Lakes

Explore seven shallow alkaline lakes teeming with flamingos and over 400 bird species.

DETAILED DAY ITINERARY

Your full-day adventure through one of Tanzania's most beautiful and accessible national parks

Early Morning - Departure & Park Entry

6:00 AM - 8:00 AM

  • 6:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi
  • 6:30 AM: Drive through the scenic highlands toward Arusha National Park (45-minute drive)
  • 7:15 AM: Arrive at Momella Gate, complete park registration
  • 7:30 AM: Begin your game drive through diverse habitats
  • Morning wildlife viewing as animals are most active during cooler hours

Wildlife Spotting: Watch for giraffes, Cape buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, and various antelope species. Keep your eyes on the trees for black-and-white colobus monkeys!

Mid-Morning - Ngurdoto Crater & Mount Meru

8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

  • Drive to Ngurdoto Crater viewpoint, often called "Little Ngorongoro"
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the 3km-wide crater floor and its steep walls
  • Observe buffaloes, warthogs, and various primates from the rim
  • Continue to Mount Meru viewpoints for spectacular photo opportunities
  • View the impressive ash cone and crater formations
  • Learn about the volcanic history and ecology from your expert guide

Photo Opportunity: The views of Mount Meru (4,566m) are stunning, especially in the morning light. Don't forget your camera for these breathtaking vistas!

Late Morning - Momella Lakes & Bird Watching

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Drive to the famous Momella Lakes area
  • Explore the seven shallow alkaline lakes, each with unique colors
  • Spot lesser and greater flamingos feeding in the shallows
  • Watch for over 400 bird species including pelicans, herons, and Egyptian geese
  • Observe hippos wallowing in the deeper sections
  • Enjoy the spectacular backdrop of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro (weather permitting)

Bird Watcher's Paradise: Arusha National Park boasts over 400 bird species! Bring binoculars to spot rarities like the silvery-cheeked hornbill and Narina trogon.

Midday - Picnic Lunch

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

  • Stop at a designated picnic site with stunning views
  • Enjoy a delicious packed lunch with fresh local ingredients
  • Relax and absorb the peaceful park atmosphere
  • Watch for vervet monkeys and olive baboons (keep food secure!)
  • Take photos of the surrounding landscape

Important: Keep all food items secured as monkeys and baboons can be quite bold. Never feed the wildlife!

Afternoon - Walking Safari Experience

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

The Highlight of Your Day:

  • Meet your armed park ranger for a guided walking safari
  • Explore the park on foot, experiencing nature from a completely different perspective
  • Walk through fig tree forests and open grasslands
  • Track animals and learn to identify their signs: footprints, droppings, and feeding marks
  • Get up close with giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras (at a safe distance)
  • Discover medicinal plants and learn about their traditional uses
  • Spot smaller creatures often missed from a vehicle: colorful insects, reptiles, and birds
  • Listen to your ranger's stories about wildlife behavior and bush skills

Safety First: Your armed ranger is highly trained and will ensure your complete safety. Follow their instructions at all times. Walking safaris are only conducted in safe areas of the park.

Late Afternoon - Final Game Drive & Departure

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

  • Return to your vehicle for a final game drive
  • Explore areas you may have missed earlier
  • Search for any wildlife you haven't yet spotted
  • Enjoy the golden afternoon light perfect for photography
  • Visit the park's forest areas for a chance to see colobus monkeys
  • Stop at scenic viewpoints for last photos
  • 4:30 PM: Exit the park through Momella Gate
  • 5:00-5:30 PM: Arrive back at your hotel in Arusha with unforgettable memories

Flexible Schedule: Times are approximate and can be adjusted based on wildlife sightings and your preferences. Your guide will ensure you have the best experience possible!

WILDLIFE YOU MAY ENCOUNTER

Arusha National Park is home to an incredible variety of animals and birds

🦒

Giraffes

Commonly seen throughout the park, especially in the acacia woodlands

🦬

Cape Buffaloes

Large herds frequently spotted in grasslands and near water sources

🦓

Zebras

Often seen in mixed herds with other herbivores

🐒

Colobus Monkeys

Black-and-white beauties in the forest canopy - a park specialty!

🦛

Hippos

Found in the deeper sections of Momella Lakes

🦩

Flamingos

Thousands gather at Momella Lakes creating pink carpets on the water

🐗

Warthogs

Comical creatures often seen kneeling while feeding

🦅

400+ Bird Species

Including crowned eagles, turacos, hornbills, and many more

Note: While Arusha National Park has no large predators (lions, leopards, cheetahs), this makes it perfect for walking safaris! The diversity of herbivores, primates, and birdlife more than compensates, offering unique and safe wildlife encounters.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Included in Your Tour

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arusha/Moshi
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Armed park ranger for walking safari
  • All park entrance fees and taxes
  • Packed lunch with drinks
  • Bottled mineral water throughout the day
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • 24/7 support during your tour

Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips for guide and ranger (recommended but optional)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Items not mentioned in the itinerary

TOUR PRICING

Competitive rates with no hidden costs. Prices per person based on group size.

Solo Traveler
$280
per person
  • Private vehicle
  • Personal guide
  • Flexible schedule
POPULAR
2 People
$180
per person
  • Shared vehicle
  • Private guide
  • Best value
3-4 People
$150
per person
  • Group discount
  • Private tour
  • Great for friends
5-6 People
$130
per person
  • Maximum savings
  • Private vehicle
  • Perfect for families

Groups of 7+ people: Contact us for special group rates. We can accommodate larger groups with multiple vehicles and customize the experience to your needs.

WHAT TO BRING

Pack smart for a comfortable day in the park

Clothing

  • Comfortable, neutral-colored clothing
  • Long pants for walking safari
  • Warm jacket/fleece (mornings can be cool)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Comfortable closed walking shoes
  • Sunglasses

Equipment

  • Camera with zoom lens (200mm+ recommended)
  • Extra camera batteries and memory cards
  • Binoculars (provided but bring your own if preferred)
  • Phone/tablet for photos
  • Power bank for charging devices

Essentials

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal medications
  • Small backpack/daypack
  • Wet wipes/hand sanitizer
  • Small flashlight

Ready for Your Arusha National Park Adventure?

Book your day trip today and experience the beauty and wildlife of this hidden gem with Easy Day Adventures

BOOK NOW CHAT WITH US

Call: +255 657 856 236 | Email: info@easydayadventures.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Arusha National Park suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! Arusha National Park is perfect for first-time safari-goers. The park is easily accessible, has excellent roads, and the walking safari is conducted in safe areas with armed rangers. It's an ideal introduction to Tanzania's wildlife.

Will I see the Big Five here?

Arusha National Park does not have lions, leopards, rhinos, or elephants (4 of the Big Five). However, you can see Cape buffaloes (1 of the Big Five), plus an incredible diversity of other wildlife including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and the rare colobus monkeys. The absence of large predators makes walking safaris possible!

What's the best time to visit Arusha National Park?

The park can be visited year-round. The dry season (June-October and January-February) offers the best wildlife viewing and clearest views of Mount Meru. The wet season (March-May and November-December) brings lush green landscapes and excellent bird watching, though some roads may be muddy.

How fit do I need to be for the walking safari?

The walking safari is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels. We walk at a gentle pace with regular stops for wildlife viewing and photography. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling. If you have any mobility concerns, please let us know and we can adjust the walking portion or skip it entirely.

Can this tour be combined with other destinations?

Yes! Arusha National Park is often combined with other northern circuit parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro Crater for multi-day safaris. It's also a great option for those with limited time before or after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru. Contact us for custom itineraries.

Is the tour child-friendly?

Yes, Arusha National Park is excellent for families with children. The park's safe environment (no large predators), shorter distances, and variety of activities keep kids engaged. The walking safari can be adjusted or shortened based on children's ages and energy levels. We provide child-friendly meals and can arrange child car seats upon request.

What if it rains during my tour?

Our vehicles have roofs for shelter, and we provide rain ponchos if needed. Light rain can actually enhance wildlife viewing as animals are more active. If there's heavy rain making roads impassable, we'll adjust the itinerary or reschedule if possible. However, rain is usually brief, especially during dry season.

GOOD TO KNOW

Park Location

Arusha National Park is located just 45 minutes from Arusha city and 60 minutes from Moshi. It covers 137 square kilometers and ranges in altitude from 1,500m to 4,566m at the summit of Mount Meru.

Weather & Climate

The park has a mild climate year-round. Daytime temperatures average 20-25°C (68-77°F). Mornings and evenings can be cool, especially at higher altitudes. Bring layers and sun protection.

Payment & Tipping

We accept cash (USD, EUR, TZS), bank transfer, and credit cards (3% fee). Tipping is optional but appreciated: $10-15 for guide, $5-10 for ranger per group is customary.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help!

Our safari experts are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help plan your perfect adventure

+255 657 856 236 info@easydayadventures.com

Easy Day Adventures - Your Gateway to Tanzania's Natural Wonders