A Day Trip to Arusha National Park
Safari in national park: Arusha National Park
Explore the hidden gem of northern Tanzania on this full-day safari to Arusha National Park, perfect for travelers with limited time or those seeking a soft introduction to the African wilderness. Located just 30 minutes from Arusha town, the park offers incredible biodiversity in a compact space—ranging from lush forests and open grasslands to volcanic craters and crater lakes.
This day trip allows you to experience a wide range of activities in just a few hours. Game drives offer sightings of giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, buffaloes, and even rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. You’ll also enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, and perhaps glimpse Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
Optional activities such as a guided walking safari or canoeing on Momella Lake add a unique twist to the traditional safari experience. Whether you’re an avid birder, photographer, or nature lover, Arusha National Park promises a rewarding day filled with beauty, peace, and wildlife.
Trip Highlights
- Guided walking safari in the wild
- Canoe safari on Momella Lake (optional)
- Stunning views of Mount Meru
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys
- Ngurdoto Crater and forest game drive
Trip Features
- Start Date: Can start any day
- Duration: 1 Day
- Comfort: Can be optimized
- Tour Type: Private Tour
- Tour Plan: Customizable Itinerary
- Transport: Toyota Landcruser
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Airport: Kilimanjaro Int. Airport
Detailed Itinerary
Your day begins with a 7:30 AM pick-up from your accommodation inArusha/Moshi for a short 30-minute drive to Arusha National Park. Arrive at the park by 8:00 AM and embark on a morning game drive with your guide. Traverse the scenic landscapes of the park—from the montane forest to open savannah—and spot giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, zebras, and various monkeys, including the rare colobus. Around 10:30 AM, visit the Momella Lakes for birdwatching, photography, and, if booked in advance, a guided canoe safari.
At 12:30 PM, stop at a peaceful picnic site near one of the Momella Lakes for lunch. Your guide will serve a delicious packed or freshly prepared picnic featuring local Tanzanian flavors. Relax in nature’s silence while enjoying views of flamingos and other birds wading in the lakes. This is also a great time to stretch your legs, take photos, or simply soak in the park’s tranquil ambiance before continuing with your adventure.
After lunch, resume your safari with an optional walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger (available upon prior request), offering the chance to track wildlife on foot and learn about local flora and fauna. Alternatively, enjoy a final game drive that explores the Ngurdoto Crater area, often referred to as the “mini-Ngorongoro,” which teems with animals. Begin your return journey around 3:30 PM, arriving back in Arusha/Moshi by 4:30 PM, just in time to relax and reflect on your unforgettable day in the wild.
- Accommodation: N/A
- Meal Plan: Lunch
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Park entry fees (Arusha National Park)
- Transport in a 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- Professional, English-speaking driver guide
- Picnic lunch box
- Bottled drinking water and soft drinks during the safari
- Game drive inside the park
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Moshi / Arusha
- Government taxes and levies
Not Included
- Tips for driver guide
- Alcoholic beverages at lodges or during lunch
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, etc.)
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation before or after the trip