Arusha and its national park

Tanzania is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, let alone on the mighty African continent. It encompasses all that a country should, rugged beauty, friendly people and an abundance of exotic animals. It’s close to a number of other popular African attractions, such as the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro but is also home to a number of largely unsung destinations, like Arusha in the Arusha region, northern Tanzania

The majestic Arusha National Park ,Tanzania

One of the reasons for the region’s popularity is its position on the Northern Tanzanian Safari Circuit. This includes the Arusha National Park, which surrounds Mount Meru, the second highest mountain in the country. The park is not big, not by the standards of some of the other parks in Africa, but its landscape is varied, as is its animal life.

Arusha National Park is only 25km from Arusha city and is home to giraffe, buffalo, warthog, blue monkey, colobus monkey, elephant, leopard and zebra. Landscapes include woodlands, rain forests, lakes, mountain peaks and even a volcanic crater. The Ngurdoto Crater is 3km wide and 400m deep but visitors are only permitted to marvel at the view from the lip of the crater, there is a strict no entry policy.

The Momella (or Momela) Lakes are also worth a visit, as the different mineral content of each lake gives it its own unique colour. Canoe safaris around the lakes are available.

Hikers and climbers can enjoy the day walks and three- to four-day climbs in the park. Day visitors can enjoy the sites and well situated picnic spots. If you want to stay in the park you can choose between lodges, rest houses, campsites, and huts. There are plenty more accommodation options in Arusha itself. According to the official Tanzania National Parks website, the best time to visit the park (and climb Mount Meru) is between June and February. Bear in mind that November is the rainy season.