Arusha National Park

A diverse park offering stunning views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, with varied landscapes including the Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and highland...

Arusha National Park at a Glance

Location
Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-3.262719, 36.848700
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
June to October (dry season) for best game viewing. January to March for wildebeest calving in the Serengeti.

Getting to Arusha National Park

Nearest airport: Mtera Airport, 437 km away.

Big Five in Arusha National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Arusha National Park

The warmest temperatures in Arusha National Park occur in February, averaging 19.4°C (up to 24.7°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 14.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 81.0mm. Average humidity: 80.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 18.7°C (rainfall: 151.0mm)
  • February: 19.4°C (rainfall: 108.6mm)
  • March: 19.1°C (rainfall: 251.6mm)
  • April: 17.5°C (rainfall: 395.3mm)
  • May: 16.4°C (rainfall: 166.7mm)
  • June: 14.9°C (rainfall: 105.3mm)
  • July: 14.2°C (rainfall: 120.8mm)
  • August: 15.0°C (rainfall: 108.2mm)
  • September: 16.1°C (rainfall: 81.0mm)
  • October: 17.5°C (rainfall: 119.5mm)
  • November: 17.8°C (rainfall: 192.7mm)
  • December: 18.0°C (rainfall: 121.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

The best months to visit Arusha National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 18.73°C, rainfall 151mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 73.7%
  • February: Good, temperature 19.35°C, rainfall 108.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 70.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 19.08°C, rainfall 251.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 76.1%
  • April: Poor, temperature 17.51°C, rainfall 395.3mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 89.4%
  • May: Poor, temperature 16.38°C, rainfall 166.7mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 86.8%
  • June: Poor, temperature 14.87°C, rainfall 105.3mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 83.9%
  • July: Poor, temperature 14.21°C, rainfall 120.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 83.6%
  • August: Poor, temperature 14.96°C, rainfall 108.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 81%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.09°C, rainfall 81mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 80%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.52°C, rainfall 119.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 77.1%
  • November: Poor, temperature 17.75°C, rainfall 192.7mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 82.4%
  • December: Good, temperature 18.03°C, rainfall 121.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 80.2%

Wildlife in Arusha National Park

Home to 80 recorded species including 36 iconic birds, 19 waterbirds, 15 birds of prey, 3 big herbivores, 3 tropical birds, 2 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Arusha National Park

Based on average temperature of 17.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 80%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 17°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Arusha National Park

22 safari lodges available.

luxury

Other

Similar Parks in Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit

Visitor Tips - Arusha National Park

We love Arusha National Park for its unexpected diversity and the chance to experience safari on foot or by canoe, which is a sensational departure from typical game drives. While it may not offer the 'Big Five' in abundance, we recommend it highly for its stunning landscapes, incredible birdlife, and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, making it a truly special and less crowded alternative to Tanzania's busier parks.

Gate Times

Arusha National Park generally operates from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. We always recommend confirming these times with your tour operator, as seasonal adjustments can occur. Entry permits are mandatory and must be secured in advance, typically through your safari outfitter or directly with TANAPA. It is crucial to remember that entry is usually only permitted with a registered safari vehicle and a licensed guide.

Tipping

Tipping is an important part of the safari economy in Tanzania. For your safari guide, we recommend budgeting $15-25 per person per day, given directly to them at the end of your trip. For general camp staff, a communal tip of $5-10 per person per day, placed in a designated box, is customary. If you undertake a walking safari with a park ranger, a separate tip of $5-10 per person for their expertise is appreciated. We advise tipping in US Dollars or Tanzanian Shillings, preferably in envelopes for discretion.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Tanzania

Travel advisory for Tanzania

Arusha National Park FAQs

When is the best time to visit Arusha National Park for optimal wildlife viewing and activities?

The dry season from June to October is ideal for visiting Arusha National Park, offering clearer skies for stunning views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, and easier wildlife spotting as animals congregate around water sources. While the park is accessible year-round, the short rains (November-December) and long rains (March-May) can make some trails muddy for walking safaris.

What makes Arusha National Park a unique safari experience compared to other Tanzanian parks?

Arusha National Park stands out for its diverse activities beyond traditional game drives, including guided walking safaris through varied landscapes and canoeing on the Momella Lakes, offering a unique perspective on wildlife like giraffes and waterbirds. It's also one of the best places to easily spot the rare black-and-white colobus monkey and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Arusha National Park, and are there any big predators?

Arusha National Park is renowned for its abundant giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and various antelopes, alongside the easily spotted black-and-white colobus monkeys in its highland forests. While it notably lacks large predators like lions and leopards, which are common in other Tanzanian parks, this absence contributes to its suitability for walking safaris and a more peaceful wildlife encounter.

What are the typical entry fees and activity costs for visiting Arusha National Park?

As of current regulations, non-resident adult entry fees for Arusha National Park are typically around $50-60 USD per person per 24 hours, excluding VAT. Additional costs apply for specific activities like guided walking safaris (approx. $20-25 USD per person) and canoeing on the Momella Lakes (approx. $20-25 USD per person), plus potential guide fees.

Beyond the high malaria risk, what other safety considerations should I be aware of for activities like walking safaris in Arusha National Park?

While a high malaria risk necessitates prophylaxis, visitors undertaking walking safaris in Arusha National Park should also be prepared for varied terrain and potential encounters with large herbivores like buffalo, always accompanied by an armed ranger for safety. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and be aware of sun exposure at higher altitudes.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Bradt Guide: Northern Tanzania by Philip Briggs - The best single-country safari guide - covers Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara in extraordinary detail with expert local knowledge.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Tanzania by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide covering Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and beyond. Practical transport, accommodation, and itinerary advice for independent and guided safari travellers.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.