National Park
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Arusha National Park

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Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park , located in northern Tanzania, is a diverse and captivating destination known for its rich ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 552 square kilometres, the park is home to Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak, standing at 4,566 meters. The park's varied terrain includes lush montane forests, the scenic Momela Lakes, and the impressive Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as "Little Ngorongoro."

Arusha National Park is unique in its combination of savannah, forest, and alpine ecosystems, providing a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, flamingos, colobus monkeys, and even elusive leopards. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species recorded.

The park offers a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and canoeing on the Momela Lakes. Hiking Mount Meru is a popular adventure, providing stunning views and a good acclimatization opportunity for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Arusha National Park's accessibility and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, for optimal wildlife viewing.

Main Attractions

Key attractions include Mount Meru, the Momela Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater.

Climate

The park has a temperate climate with two rainy seasons: March to May and October to December.

Experience

Visitors can enjoy diverse experiences such as game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and hiking, offering a rich blend of adventure and natural beauty.

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When To Visit Arusha

The Best Time to Visit Arusha is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is also more pleasant for outdoor activities, with fewer rain disruptions. The short dry season from January to February is also a good time to visit. However, avoid the long rainy season from March to May, as heavy rains can make travel difficult.

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Things To Do In Arusha

Game Drives

Game Drives

Big Five

Big Five

Kayaking

Kayaking

Birding

Birding

Walking Safaris

Walking Safaris

Cultural Experience

Cultural Experience

Family Safaris

Family Safaris

Coffee Plantation Tour

Coffee Plantation Tour

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The Best Tanzania Safari Tours & Packages

Let's Plan Your Safari

When To Visit Tanzania

Jan to Mar

Beaches, Calves, and Kilimanjaro Ascents

January brings ideal beach weather to Tanzania's coast and Zanzibar, perfect for enjoying soft sand and clear waters. February sees the start of the wildebeest calving season, with predators nearby. March offers excellent conditions for climbing Kilimanjaro, despite the onset of the long rains, which refresh the Ngorongoro Highlands and turn the landscape lush green.

AVG RAINFALL 101 mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 101 mm
MAX TEMP 32 ℃
MIN TEMP 24 ℃

April to May

Rainy Season and Migration Movements

April is the wettest month, featuring afternoon thundershowers and occasional big storms, particularly impacting the western and southern parks with high humidity. Despite the rain, accommodations offer great value. By late May, conditions start drying, coinciding with the Great Migration's move from the southern to the western Serengeti, heralding the approach of the dry season.

AVG RAINFALL 216 mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 30 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 22 ℃ /

June to Aug

Dry Season and Peak Wildlife Viewing

June marks the dry season, perfect for luxury safaris as savannahs shift from green to yellow, improving wildlife sightings. The Wildebeest Migration gathers at Grumeti River. In July and August, it reaches the Serengeti's north, preparing for the dramatic Mara River crossings, attracting tourists for exceptional wildlife encounters.

AVG RAINFALL 25mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 11 Hours
MAX TEMP 30 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 19 ℃ /

Sep to Oct

Fewer Crowds, Ideal Climbing Conditions

September's low humidity and fewer mosquitoes make it ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro and observing large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park, coinciding with the start of the fishing season. October brings early rains, enhancing conditions for climbing Mount Meru in Arusha National Park.

AVG RAINFALL 38mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 31 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 20 ℃ /

Nov to Dec

Rainy Season, Exceptional Wildlife Viewing

November offers sporadic thundershowers, yet remains an excellent month for safaris, especially in the northern parks and less-explored areas. December, amidst short rains, becomes a prime time for birdwatching with migratory birds arriving and the Great Migration returning to the southern Serengeti's lush plains.

AVG RAINFALL 115mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 32 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 23 ℃ /
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