Destination
Arusha National Park, the closest to the safari capital of northern Tanzania, is often overlooked by safari goers despite offering the chance to explore diverse habitats in just a few hours.
You will find yourself in a beautiful montane forest as you enter the gate. It is home to incredible wildlife, like blue monkeys, turacos, and trogons. You will want to experience the stunning Ngurdoto Crater in the forest. It has a marshy floor and is home to buffalo and warthog herds.
If you head north of the forest, you’ll come across the Momela Lakes. These lakes are surrounded by rolling grassy hills, and you’ll be amazed by the thousands of flamingos and other waterfowl that call them home. Keep an eye out for giraffes and zebra herds in the area! If you’re an early bird or a night owl, you might catch a glimpse of some amazing animals like leopards and spotted hyenas in Arusha National Park.
And the views during dawn and dusk are breathtaking, with the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro only 30 miles away. But remember Mount Meru, the fifth highest mountain in Africa and dominates the park’s horizon.
You can even hike it and enjoy the stunning landscapes, from wooded savannah to high open heath with giant lobelias. And keep an eye out for buffalos, giraffes, and klipspringers along the way. When you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with the most spectacular sunrise and a clear view of Kilimanjaro.