Arusha National Park 1 Day Trip – Explore Nature, Wildlife & Mount Meru Views
Arusha National Park 1 Day Trip – Overview
The Arusha National Park 1-day safari is the perfect short escape into the wilderness of northern Tanzania. Located just 45 minutes from Arusha city, this compact but stunning park offers incredible diversity in landscapes and wildlife, all within a single day. It is home to lush Montane forests, open savannahs, crater lakes, waterfalls, and the majestic Mount Meru—the second-highest mountain in Tanzania.
While not known for the Big Five (though buffaloes and leopards are present), Arusha National Park offers a unique blend of scenery, wildlife, and birdlife. It is one of the only parks where walking safaris and canoeing are available—providing an intimate and off-the-beaten-path safari experience. This tour is ideal for day visitors, business travelers, or anyone with limited time looking for a rich, close-to-town adventure.
Tour Highlights
Only 45 minutes from Arusha city
Scenic views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro (on clear days)
Game drives through varied landscapes: forest, lakes, and plains
Walking safari with an armed ranger through the forest
Visit the Ngurdoto Crater (mini “Ngorongoro”) and Momella Lakes
Spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, monkeys, flamingos, and more
Optional canoe safari on Momella Lake (pre-arranged)
Picnic lunch in a peaceful natural setting
Arusha National Park Day Trip – Itinerary
Morning: Pick-up and Transfer to Arusha National Park
Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. After a brief introduction, you’ll drive to Arusha National Park, arriving at the gate in under an hour.
Your guide will handle park entry formalities before starting the adventure.
Late Morning: Game Drive and Walking Safari
The tour starts with a scenic game drive through the forest zones, where you may spot blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and various forest birds.
You’ll then take a guided walking safari, escorted by a park ranger. The walk offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy sights and sounds often missed from the vehicle—like waterfalls, bird calls, medicinal plants, and animal tracks. You might get up close with giraffes, zebras, and warthogs on foot.
Afternoon: Ngurdoto Crater and Momella Lakes
After the walk, continue your game drive toward the Ngurdoto Crater, a lush caldera with swampy floor, often visited by buffaloes and monkeys.
You’ll stop at Momella Lakes, a series of alkaline lakes famous for their vibrant flamingo populations and migratory waterbirds. This is a prime spot for picnic lunch, birdwatching, and photography.
On clear days, enjoy magnificent views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro from the lake viewpoints.
Late Afternoon: Return Journey
After a fulfilling nature experience, you’ll exit the park in the late afternoon and drive back to Arusha (or Moshi), arriving before sunset.
Meals Included: Picnic lunch and bottled water
Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Activity Duration: ~7–9 hours total (including transfers)
Important Information
Departure Location: Arusha (Moshi available upon request)
Departure Time: 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
Return Time: ~5:00 PM
Included: Park entry fees, walking safari, transport, guide, lunch, water
Excluded: Optional canoe safari, tips, personal expenses, souvenirs
What to Bring:
Comfortable walking shoes and light jacket
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
Binoculars and camera
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is Arusha National Park from Arusha city?
The park is located about 30 kilometers (45 minutes) from Arusha town.What animals can I see during the day trip?
You may see giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, zebras, monkeys, baboons, and flamingos. Leopards are rare but present.Can I do a walking safari in Arusha National Park?
Yes, walking safaris are one of the park’s main attractions, led by professional park rangers.Is it possible to go canoeing during the trip?
Yes, canoeing on Momella Lake is available upon request but must be pre-arranged due to limited slots.Is this trip suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The day trip is safe and educational, making it ideal for families and kids.Do I need hiking experience for the walking safari?
No. The walk is gentle and suitable for all fitness levels, usually lasting 1 to 2 hours.
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Price Includeds
Park entry fees and government taxes
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Full-board accommodation during the safari
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Price Excludeds
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance and visa fees
Tips for the guide and lodge staff
Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, laundry)
Optional activities (e.g. balloon safari, Maasai village visit)