The trip to Arusha National Park begins with a morning pick-up at Clock Tower in Arusha at 7:30 AM, for an early start to maximize your time for game drive in the park. After a short 50 km (approximately 1-hour drive) through the outskirts of Arusha, you’ll arrive at Momela Gate.

Despite its small size, Arusha National Park holds remarkable biodiversity and a notably varied natural character. The park is known for its montane forests and the striking presence of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second highest peak. Wildlife viewing is consistently productive, with giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, and several primate species encountered with ease. Elephants and big cats are less frequent here, creating a haven for forest specialists such as the black and white colobus monkey. Bird enthusiasts can expect an impressive range of species, from flamingos on the Momela Lakes to the crowned eagle soaring above the canopy.

One of the park’s standout experiences is the guided bush walk, a rare opportunity to explore the park on foot. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you’ll feel the thrill of walking among zebras and giraffes, feeling the crunch of the earth beneath your shoes, and sensing the untouched beauty of the forest – something that stays with you long after the trip ends. The terrain here shifts from open savannahs to dense woodlands, making every step a discovery. This up-close experience allows you to appreciate the smaller details – animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the subtle sounds of nature often missed on game drives.

By midday, you will take a break at a picnic site with wide views of the park’s landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature before resuming your afternoon game drive. As the sun begins its descent, you will make your way back to Arusha, arriving at your hotel in the early evening.