Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, located in the northern part of Tanzania, is a small yet diverse park that offers a range of landscapes and wildlife experiences. Covering an area of 137 square kilometers, it is known for its stunning scenery, which includes the forested slopes of Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, as well as open savannah, lakes, and lush wetlands. The park is unique due to its combination of habitats, allowing visitors to experience a wide variety of landscapes and ecosystems in a relatively compact area.

The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of monkeys, such as the black-and-white colobus monkey. While it does not host the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes), Arusha National Park is still an incredible destination for safari enthusiasts looking for a more intimate and peaceful experience. The park is also a great place for birdwatching, with over 400 species of birds recorded. Its close proximity to Arusha town makes it an ideal day-trip destination for visitors wanting to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty without venturing too far from the city.

What to Expect

Diverse Landscapes: The park features a unique blend of environments, including lush rainforest, open savannah, volcanic craters, and the scenic Momella Lakes, all within a relatively small area.

Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, and colobus monkeys, along with a variety of smaller mammals and predators like hyenas.

Mount Meru Views: The park offers stunning views of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, creating a dramatic backdrop for safari experiences.

Rich Birdlife: With hundreds of bird species, including flamingos, turacos, and hornbills, it is a rewarding destination for birdwatchers.

Unique Activities: Unlike many parks, Arusha National Park allows walking safaris and canoeing, offering a more active and intimate way to explore nature.

When To Visit

The best time to visit Arusha National Park depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. From June to October, during the dry season, wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is thinner, making game viewing clearer and more rewarding. From November to May, the wet season transforms the park into a lush green landscape with fewer visitors, excellent birdwatching, and the chance to see newborn animals, although occasional rain may affect some activities.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

Visiting in January

January marks the beginning of the green season in Tanzania. The southern plains of Serengeti National Park and Ndutu area are lush and full of life after the short rains. Wildebeest herds gather in large numbers as they prepare for the calving season. Wildlife is abundant, and predators such as lions and cheetahs are highly active, making it a great month for dramatic safari encounters.

Visiting in February

February is the peak of the wildebeest calving season. Thousands of calves are born across the short-grass plains, attracting intense predator action. This is one of the most exciting wildlife months in Africa, offering incredible sightings in the Serengeti ecosystem.

Visiting in March

March continues the calving season, but the weather becomes more unpredictable as the long rains approach. The landscape remains green and beautiful, and wildlife is still concentrated in the southern Serengeti, although movement begins to increase.

Visiting in April

April is the height of the long rains. Many safari areas are quiet, but the scenery is at its most dramatic and green. Parks such as Ngorongoro Conservation Area still offer good wildlife viewing, especially for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Visiting in May

The rains continue but start to ease toward the end of the month. Birdlife is excellent, and the landscapes remain lush. Wildlife is more spread out, making sightings a bit less predictable but still rewarding.

Visiting in June

June signals the start of the dry season. Animals begin gathering around water sources, improving game viewing. The Great Migration starts moving through the western corridors of Serengeti National Park.

Visiting in July

July is one of the best safari months in Tanzania. The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti, and dramatic Mara River crossings begin. Clear skies and dry conditions make wildlife viewing outstanding.

Visiting in August

August continues the peak safari experience. Massive herds gather at the Mara River, creating intense predator-prey encounters. At the same time, Tarangire National Park offers excellent elephant viewing.

Visiting in September

September remains dry and excellent for wildlife viewing. Animals concentrate around water sources, and the migration herds start settling in the northern Serengeti before slowly moving south.

Visiting in October

October offers superb game viewing across northern and central Tanzania. Wildlife is easier to spot due to limited water sources. It is also a good time to combine with southern parks like Nyerere National Park.

Visiting in November

Short rains begin, refreshing the landscape and encouraging new grass growth. The migration starts moving back toward the southern Serengeti, and birdwatching becomes especially rewarding.

Visiting in December

December brings the return of large herds to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area. Wildlife activity increases again, and the cycle begins to prepare for the upcoming calving season.

Tanzania Safari Wildlife Journeys

You are welcome to tailor our trip options to your own interests. While these carefully chosen ideas will serve as a starting point, keep in mind that your path will be entirely unique to you.

$ 4,360 per person

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park

What to Expect

When To Visit

Tanzania Safari Wildlife Journeys

7 Days Western Tanzania Wilderness & Primate Safari

4 Days Nyerere River & Big Five Wilderness Safari

5 Days Mikumi Plains & Udzungwa Rainforest Safari

6 Days Tanzania Family Safari Adventure

4 Days Tanzania Safari Express

6 Days Cultural & Wildlife Safari