The trip to Arusha National Park begins with a morning pick-up at AICC Arusha at 7:30 AM, for an early start to maximize your time for game drive in the park. After a short 50 km (approximately 1-hour drive) through the outskirts of Arusha, you’ll arrive at Momela Gate.Despite its small size, Arusha National Park is a world of its own – rich in biodiversity and strikingly diverse natural make-up. The park is famous for its montane forests and the spectacular backdrop of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak.

Wildlife sightings here are rewarding, with giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, and primates frequently seen. Unlike other parks in the northern safari circuit of Tanzania, elephants and big cats are less common, making it a refuge for rare forest species, including the black-and-white colobus monkey. Bird enthusiasts can look forward to an impressive variety of species, from flamingos shimmering on Momela Lakes to the elusive crowned eagle soaring above.

One of the park’s standout experiences is the guided bush walk, a rare opportunity to explore the park on foot. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you’ll feel the thrill of walking among zebras and giraffes, feeling the crunch of the earth beneath your shoes, and sensing the untouched beauty of the forest – something that stays with you long after the trip ends. The terrain here shifts from open savannahs to dense woodlands, making every step a discovery. This up-close experience allows you to appreciate the smaller details – animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the subtle sounds of nature often missed on game drives.

By midday, you’ll take a break at a picnic site, with sweeping views of the park’s landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature before resuming your afternoon game drive. As the sun begins its descent, you’ll make your way back to Arusha, arriving at AICC or your hotel in the early evening.