When to visit Arusha National Park? Arusha National Park is located in the Northern part of Tanzania standing at an elevated area of about 4566 meters above the sea level in the Arusha Region. This national park was established in 1960 with the main purpose of protecting and conserving the area because of its wildlife. The park covers an area of approximately 137 square kilometers and the Tanzania National Park Authority is managing it, which is a government organization that has a responsibility of protecting all the national parks.
The best time to visit the park largely depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Generally, the dry season which runs from June to October, is considered ideal for wildlife viewing. During these months, animals are easier to spot as that congregate around water sources, the vegetation is less dense. This makes it a perfect time for photographers and wildlife enthusiast seeking great sightings.
If you prefer to see the park’s landscape in full bloom, the rainy season, which lasts from march to may, offers a different kind of beauty. While some trails many be more challenging to navigate because of muddy trails, many visitors appreciate the lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers that emerge during these months. Additionally, the park is less crowed during the rainy season, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature. Birdwatchers will find this time particularly rewarding, as numerous migratory species flock to the park to take advantage of the abundant food and shelter.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Arusha National Park depends on your personal preferences and interest. If you’re excited about spotting wildlife, the dry season are your best bet. However, if you’re drawn to serene landscape and don’t mind the occasional rains, the lushness of the wet season can be equally appealing. Regardless of what you choose to go, Arusha National Park promises a memorable safaris experience filled with stunning views and wildlife encounters.
Frequently asked questions about a safari in Arusha National Park
What is Arusha National Park known for?
Arusha National Park is famous for its stunning landscapes, including Mount Meru (Tanzania’s second highest mountain), lush forests, and the beautiful Momella Lakes. It offers a chance to see diverse wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and flamingos.
What types of safaris can you do in the park?
The park is rich in game animals that can be viewed at a very close distance and it’s an ideal place for a day trip with a variety of tourism activities like game drive, mountain climbing, walking safaris, canoeing, cycling and horse riding among others
what is the climate like of Arusha national park?
The Park can be visited throughout the year; however, the best time is between June to September and from December to early March. The short rainy period is from October to November and the heavy rain season is from March to May.
What animals might you see?
While larger animals like elephants and lions are not as common in Arusha National Park, you can see species like elephant, Cape buffalo, Warthog, bush pigs, waterbucks, bush bucks, duikers, dik- dik, spotted hyenas, leopards and lions. Black and white colobus and blue monkeys are residents in the park. The park is also habitat to over 400 bird species and these include endemics, forest and migratory species. Some of these species include; Flamingos, Cinnamon chested bee-eater, Great crested grebe, African fish eagle, Peregrine falcon, Verreaux’s eagle, Black saw-wing, African olive pigeon, Hartaub’s turaco among others
Do you need a guide for the safari
Yes, it’s highly recommended to have a knowledgeable guide. They can help you spot wildlife, provide insights about the park’s ecosystem, and ensure your safety while exploring.
Is it safe to walk in the park?
Arusha National Park is one of the few national parks in Tanzania where you can go on a walking safari! These are perfectly safe due to the lack of predators in the park. While this means that you are unlikely to see a lion, you can see plenty of other animals on foot which gives you a completely unique experience.
How do I get to Arusha National Park?
The park can be accessed by road or air depending on the traveler’s choice. By road the journey is 45 minutes from Arusha town to the national park. You can also access the park by taking domestic flights from Kilimanjaro International airport to Arusha airport and the journey takes 20 minutes
What should I bring on my safari?
Passport, itinerary, travel insurance docs and Etickets are the main list of what you must pack for your Tanzania safari in Arusha National Park. Other packing list you should also consider includes, camera, binoculars, sunglasses, hat, comfortable walking shoes, a pair of safari trousers. Finally, don’t forget your sense of humor, patience and some common sense
Are there any accommodation facilities available?
Yes! there are a variety of accommodation facilities available for visitors while on a Tanzania wildlife safaris in arusha national park. Some of these accommodations you may opt includes Arusha Coffee Lodge, Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, The African Tulip Hotel, Lake Duluti Serena Hotel, Hatari Lodge, Mvuli Hotel Arusha, L’Oasis Lodge and Restaurant Arusha, Ilboru Safari Lodge, Moyoni Lodge, Zawadi House, Palace Hotel Arusha, Lush Garden Hotel, Shu’mate Camp, Maasi Giraffe Eco Lodge, Kiota Nest, Itikoni Seasonal Cam, Momella Wildlife Lodge, Rivertrees Country Inn, African View Lodge -Arusha, Twiga Lodge among others.
