Arusha National Park is situated in northern Tanzania, not far from the Kenyan border and close to the city of Arusha. It is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania and Africa, covering only 53 square miles (137 square kilometres).
Others see this park as a companion to Kilimanjaro, which is located to the east of Arusha. Those with a penchant for mountains often make the trip to both parks.
After Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is Tanzania's second-tallest peak. Meru's highest point is only 14,968 feet (4,562 metres) above sea level, making it significantly smaller than Kilimanjaro. You can see both mountains from each other on a clear day. Located in Tanzania, the fifth tallest mountain in Africa is the dormant stratovolcano known as Mount Meru.
Although relatively small compared to other national parks, the park contains various ecosystems and natural features. The park is divided into three separate regions. Located in the park's western section, the Meru Crater is a primary water source for the Jekukumia River. This peak sits atop the crater's lip.
The grassland ecology of Ngurdoto Crater may be found in the park's southeastern region. The Momella Lake is located in the park's northeastern corner. They serve as a refuge for birds interested in feeding on the algae that flourish there.
Numerous species of animals and birds make their home in the forest at the mountain's base. This park is a birdwatcher's dream with over 400 different bird species.
Buffalo, bushbuck, elephants, warthogs, zebras, and colobus monkeys are just a few other animals that call this area home. The leopard is about, but it is pretty challenging to spot.
1. Mount Meru
At 4,566 metres, Africa's fifth-highest peak makes an impression (14,990 feet). Unlike Kilimanjaro, which is timid and sometimes obscured by clouds, Meru can be seen from afar for the better part of the year.
Mt. Meru, a volcano in Tanzania, is a popular climbing destination and a great training mountain for those aiming for Kilimanjaro. As astounding as the view from the peak of Kilimanjaro is, the trip is a walking safari through various environments where you might see giraffes, elephants, antelopes, and more.
Victorious Vacations can set up climbing permits, armed ranger escorts, all essential camping gear, and even overnight stays at the Miriakamba or Saddle Huts for anyone interested in ascending Mt. Meru.
2. Exceptional wildlife diversity
The park's wide range of ecosystems allows for an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life.
The park is home to the most significant African giraffe population, waterbucks, cape buffalo, elephants, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, turacos, trogons, and possibly even lions and leopards under the appropriate circumstances.
The park's natural beauty and variety of species attract birdwatchers.
3. Momella Lake
Big Momella, Small Momella, Kusare, Lekandiro, Tulusia, Rishateni, and El Kekhotoito are seven of the shallow lakes that make up the Momella Lakes in Arusha National Park. Algae give each lake a unique green or blue hue in their alkaline waters.
Flamingos and other birds, as well as waterbucks, giraffes, zebras, and dik-diks, can be spotted in the vicinity, even though the water is unfit for human use.
Canoe safaris are a possibility on Small Momella Lake.
4. Ngurdoto Crater
An abundance of wildlife calls this crater home, making it a frequent pit stop for safari vehicles. The Cape Buffalo, elephants, monkeys, baboons, warthogs, and various antelope species are all familiar sights for tourists.
Ngurdoto Forest is a fantastic area bordering the crater and teeming with active black and white colobus monkeys.
Serengeti Ndogo (Little Serengeti) is an extensive grassland where zebra herds can be seen at any time of the year.
5. Tululusia Hill
Tululusia Hill is a popular hiking and camping spot. It was also used as a lookout point during tribal battles from Tanzania's post. From the top, travellers can see the lower portions of Arusha National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.
This densely wooded park area is a home to elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, red duikers, suni, leopards, and even tree-dwelling pythons.
Highlights: The Three Mt. Kilimanjaro Peaks, Waterfall, Maundi Crater, Wildlife, Vegetation zone division, Mountainous Forest.
Highlights: Lake Wildlife, Maji Moto Spring, Birdlife, Ground Water Forest, Acacia Woodlands
Highlights: The Crater, Lake Magadi, Laetoli & Olduvai Gorge, Bird watching, The Moving Sands, The Gol Mountains, Lake Ndutu & Lake Masek
Highlights: The game drive, Safaris on foot, Cultural Excursions, Boat Safaris
Highlights: Wildlife, Sites of History and Culture, Rivers, Hot Springs, Rift Valley, Birdlife.
Highlights: Hot Air Balloon Trip,, Moru Kopjes, Retina Hippo Pool, Wildebeast Migration, Grumeti River, The Maasai
Highlights: Bird Watching, Tarangire River, Silale Swamp, Baobab Tree's, Matete Woodlands, Poachers Hide
