Arusha National Park Itinerary
Itinerary Summary
Arusha National Park offers an ideal one-day safari escape just outside the city of Arusha. The day begins with an early morning game drive through open grasslands, where visitors can spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and other wildlife. The journey continues to the scenic Ngurdoto Crater and the tranquil Momella Lakes, home to flamingos and abundant birdlife. After a peaceful picnic lunch, guests can enjoy a guided walking safari to explore the forest and visit the picturesque Tululusia Waterfall. The adventure wraps up with a final game drive before returning to Arusha in the evening. This itinerary combines breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and light hiking, making it perfect for nature lovers and those short on time.
Itinerary Overview
Arusha National Park is a hidden gem located just a short drive from Arusha town, offering a rich blend of landscapes and wildlife within a compact area. The park is home to a remarkable variety of animals including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, and the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. Its diverse scenery ranges from open savannahs and lush forests to the scenic Momella Lakes and the impressive Ngurdoto Crater. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, canoeing, and waterfall hikes all in one day. With the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru and occasional views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha National Park is the perfect destination for a short yet rewarding safari experience.
MORNING : Early Departure & Game Drive
Your day begins with an early morning departure from Arusha around 7:00 AM, heading to Arusha National Park just a 40-minute drive away. Upon arrival, you’ll start with a scenic game drive through the park’s open grasslands, commonly known as “Little Serengeti.” Here, you can spot herds of giraffes, zebras, warthogs, buffaloes, and various species of antelopes. The morning is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals are most active during the cooler hours.
MID-MORNING : Ngurdoto Crater & Momella Lakes
After the first game drive, continue your exploration towards the Ngurdoto Crater, a lush, forested volcanic caldera often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro.” The crater provides stunning views and the chance to see buffalo, baboons, monkeys, and more. From there, visit the beautiful Momella Lakes, where the colorful waters attract flamingos, hippos, and a rich variety of birds. For those seeking more adventure, an optional canoeing safari on the lakes offers a unique way to view wildlife.
LUNCH : Picnic in the Wild
Around midday, take a well-deserved break for a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated picnic spots, typically overlooking the lakes or forest. Surrounded by nature, this is the perfect time to relax, refuel, and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Meru and, on clear days, even Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
AFTERNOON : Walking Safari & Tululusia Waterfall
After lunch, set out on a guided walking safari, accompanied by an armed ranger. This is a chance to stretch your legs and get closer to the smaller details of the park—spotting colobus monkeys, forest birds, and learning about the area’s flora and fauna. The walk leads to the charming Tululusia Waterfall, nestled in lush forest, where wildlife sightings often include bushbucks and monkeys along the way.
LATE AFTERNOON : Final Game Drive & Return
As the afternoon light softens, enjoy a final game drive through the park, offering last glimpses of wildlife and beautiful scenery bathed in golden light. This is a peaceful time for photography and reflection on the day’s adventures. By around 5:30 PM, you’ll exit the park and return to Arusha, arriving back by early evening.
INCLUDED
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide or other language as specified during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari
NOT INCLUDED
- Internal or International flights
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Balloon excursion (US$600 pp)
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
- Item of personal Nature
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