Arusha National Park Day Trip
A Day of Wilderness, Just Minutes from Arusha.
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Overview
The Arusha National Park Day Trip is the perfect choice for travelers with limited time but who still want a taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Located just 40 minutes from Arusha town, this compact park offers incredible diversity: lush forests, volcanic craters, waterfalls, lakes filled with flamingos, and sweeping views of Mount Meru. Despite its size, the park is home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, colobus monkeys, warthogs, and hundreds of bird species. Unlike many other parks, Arusha also offers the chance to enjoy a walking safari or canoe ride, making it a truly unique one-day adventure.
Highlights
Explore Ngurdoto Crater, known as “Little Ngorongoro.”
Spot giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and monkeys in their natural habitat.
Visit the Momella Lakes, home to flamingos and hippos.
Enjoy walking safaris with an armed ranger.
Panoramic views of Mount Meru and distant Kilimanjaro.
Includes & Excludes
INCLUDES
Park entry fees
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking driver/guide
Picnic lunch and bottled drinking water
Walking safari (with armed ranger)
EXCLUDES
Tips & gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks)
Optional canoeing activity
Itinerary
Arusha National Park Itinerary
Morning: Pick-up & Transfer to Arusha National Park
Your guide will pick you up from your Arusha hotel in the morning. After a short drive, enter the park and begin your game drive. Look out for giraffes feeding on acacia trees, troops of colobus monkeys, and herds of buffalo grazing in the grasslands.
Late Morning: Ngurdoto Crater & Forests
Drive through lush highland forests to the edge of the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater. Often called “Little Ngorongoro,” this collapsed volcanic crater shelters swamps, wildlife, and stunning views.
Afternoon: Walking Safari & Momella Lakes
Enjoy a guided walking safari with an armed ranger — a rare chance to experience the wilderness on foot. Later, visit the Momella Lakes, famous for flamingos, waterbirds, and sometimes hippos and waterbuck.
Late Afternoon: Return to Arusha
After a full day of exploring, return to Arusha town, arriving in the late afternoon.
Tour Map
Tour Gallery
Group Discount
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 People | $160 |
| 5 – 7 People | $150 |
| 8+ People | Special Rate (On Request) |
Accommodation
As this is a day trip, accommodation is not included. However, we can arrange hotel bookings in Arusha before or after your safari upon request.
Other Tour Details
- Departure: Daily from Arusha town
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; the park is green and scenic even in the rainy season
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Meals: Picnic lunch and drinking water included
- Optional Add-ons: Canoeing at Momella Lakes or cultural tours near Arusha
Tour FAQs
How far is Arusha National Park from Arusha town?
About 40 minutes’ drive.
Can I do a walking safari?
Yes, guided walking safaris with rangers are included.
Will I see lions or elephants here?
Lions are rare, and elephants are occasional visitors. Giraffes, buffalos, and monkeys are more common.
Is this trip suitable for families?
Yes, it’s perfect for families with children.
Can this trip connect with longer safaris?
Absolutely — it’s a great introduction before heading to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
