YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

Arusha National Park has a high density of Giraffes. Enjoy their graceful and peaceful nature at your leisure / Image: @moseslondo

WHERE IS ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK LOCATED?
As you may have guessed from the name, Arusha National Park is situated close to Arusha in northeastern Tanzania. This city has long been a gateway for eager travelers hoping to venture to the many celebrated national parks in the region.
While visitors will have a lengthy journey ahead to reach the likes of Ngorongoro Crater, the entrance to Arusha National Park is only around 30 km east of Arusha city. In most cases, this drive will take between 45 minutes and an hour.
Are you planning an extended trip to other national parks across northern Tanzania? It's worth noting that the Serengeti is about 400 km from Arusha National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a little under 200 km away, and approximately 150 km separate the park from Lake Manyara.

Safaris in Lake Manyara National Park - a wonderful addition to combine with Arusha National Park / Image: @etvoilaraissa

2. A BRIEF RUNDOWN OF THE FOUR SECTIONS OF ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

Before we go any further, we must briefly explain the three main sections of Arusha National Park. Each area has something unique to see, so learning a bit about them can help you decide where to focus your time.

The Momella Lakes: Comprising of seven lakes, the Momella Lakes is the main base for canoe safaris in Arusha National Park. While some animals can be found in the area, there are more birds, making it popular among birdwatchers.
Ngurdoto Crater: Located in the southeastern part of the park, Ngurdoto Crater is an extinct volcanic caldera that’s highly popular for walking safaris, as accessing it by vehicle can be challenging. There's a lot of animal activity in this area, with black and white colobus monkeys, baboons, and elephants all being very easy to spot.
Little Serengeti: Sometimes called 'Serengeti Ndogo,' Little Serengeti lies close to Arusha National Park's southern entrance gate and is a prime location for viewing the famous Plains Zebras.

Two zebras in the dry season. The dry season isnt just a popular time to visit, its a great time to observe animals too

3. HOW TO GET TO ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK?

If you want to reach Arusha National Park, you'll first need to travel to the city of Arusha, which is best accessed by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

Luckily, there are a handful of options for getting from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha, allowing you to reach the national park easily. Since we have run many safaris in this part of Tanzania, our team knows all the modes of transport covering this route, so we have you covered.

Getting From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha by Taxi

Taxis are readily available from Kilimanjaro Airport regardless of the time of your landing; you'll find taxis parked in the designated taxi rank outside at pretty much any hour.

With a taxi from Kilimanjaro to Arusha, the drive takes anywhere between an hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes. Most taxis can carry four passengers, but it may be less for any party with quite a lot of luggage. You'll also find larger vehicles like minivans and jeeps, so you usually won't have trouble securing a taxi even if you're traveling in a big group.

Though it's unlikely, unlicensed taxi drivers can sometimes frequent the area outside the arrivals section at Kilimanjaro Airport. Because of this, we suggest making sure your driver has their details and credentials clearly displayed before you agree to start the journey.

How Much Is a Taxi From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha?

Predicting the cost of a taxi from Kilimanjaro to Arusha is tricky. Most official taxis have meters installed inside, but many drivers prefer to offer fixed prices instead, so expect to get your haggling hat on once you've grabbed your bags.

While it's advisable to only travel with drivers who agree to use the meter so that you get a fair price, it can be challenging to get them to do so; you're pretty much at their mercy. As such, fares can vary considerably but often range from TZS 81,750.00 ($30) to TZS 136,250.00 ($50), but it depends on the driver you get.

Getting From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha by Private Transfer

Another option is to take a private transfer from Kilimanjaro to Arusha. You might find that your hotel or tour company takes care of this for you, but if not, there are plenty of local providers who offer these services, too.

Many visitors prefer private transfers as it takes away the stress of finding a driver willing to offer a reasonable fare or use the taximeter. On top of that, you'll typically have a chance to sort out the payment beforehand, and you won't need to waste any time negotiating with drivers, which is a big plus if you've arrived late at night.

How Much Is a Private Transfer From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha?

In some cases, if your transfer is included in your hotel rate or tour package, you won't need to pay any additional fee for this trip. Other than that, though, the prices of private transfers vary significantly between companies.

Because they tend to be more favorable options compared to traditional taxis, there's a chance you'll pay more for the added comfort and convenience. Prices average around TZS 136,250.00 ($50) but can be higher or lower depending on the transfer company and your party size.

Getting From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha by Shuttle Bus

Traveling from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha by shuttle is also popular among visitors. Several companies provide this shared service, and most have numerous departures each day, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the city.

Both Precision Air and Fastjet have shuttles from Kilimanjaro to Arusha, and you'll often find other drivers and operators offering shuttles from right outside the terminal. Even though multiple companies run these shuttles, they can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it might be best to book in advance directly with one of the companies to secure your spot.

For the most part, the Kilimanjaro to Arusha shuttles are well-organized and efficient. However, the exact departure times are subject to change.

If you arrive during a quieter period, you may need to wait until the van fills up for the driver to leave, which can inconvenience anyone who wants to make the most of their time. Moreover, shuttles tend to stop at fixed spots in the city rather than directly at your hotel, so it might not be a suitable option if you've got a lot of luggage with you.

The airstrip at Kilimanjaro National Airport. The closest airport to Arusha National Park / Image: @viveksphoto

How Much Is a Shuttle Bus From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha?

At present, taking an airport shuttle from Kilimanjaro to Arusha will set you back about TZS 10,000.00 ($3.70). This price is charged per passenger, but some drivers may have a set fee for the entire vehicle, regardless of how many people are on board.

Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that each provider may have different prices, and some may charge add-on fees for your baggage.

Getting From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha by Flight

The fourth and final way to travel is to fly from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha Airport. This 15-minute journey is by far the fastest option, but due to Arusha Airport's small size, flights are few and far between.

Regional Air is one of the airlines servicing this route. They only have a handful of planes making this trip each month, and some months have no scheduled flights at all. Auric Air is another airline that flies from Kilimanjaro to Arusha but mostly offers flights on request.

As a result, taking a flight between the two airports is only worth considering if you're planning to charter a plane.
How Much Is a Flight From Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha?

With Regional Air, flights from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha Airport cost around TSZ 286,125.00 ($105) per person, with added fees for luggage. If you decide to charter a plane, the total price could be upwards of several million Tanzanian Shillings or between $500 to $2000 thousand U.S. Dollars. The fare you'll pay will depend on a multitude of factors, including the number of passengers, time of year, and airline you choose.

Reaching Arusha National Park From Arusha City

After arriving in Arusha, your next step is to make your way to Arusha National Park. You'll have a roughly 45-minute journey to the park from the city; it can be done either by taking a taxi (prices start from TZS 42766.17 ($16) or, in most cases, the lodge you're staying in will offer to pick you up.

If you plan to stay in the park and travel directly from Kilimanjaro Airport, the trip will be slightly shorter than the drive to central Arusha; it usually only takes around 40 minutes. However, this depends on where your lodging is located in the park.

Embarking on a game drive is one of the most exciting things to do in Arusha National Park / Image: @wade_lambert

4. BEST THINGS TO DO IN ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK?

Must-See Attractions in Arusha National Park

Embark on a Game Drive

You may have decided to cut Arusha National Park out of your Tanzania itinerary if you're planning to visit nature reserves like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Lake Manyara. However, those of you with a little extra time to spare in Arusha should definitely consider making a day trip here for some action-packed game drives.

Arusha National Park isn't quite as synonymous with the Big Five as some other parks, but it's much less visited and smaller in size. Though giraffes, zebras, and elephants are commonly spotted, this experience is a much more low-key, laidback take on the safaris you'll enjoy in other areas.

If you're eager to explore the park but looking for a more unique activity, walking safaris make for a wonderful alternative.

Tackle Mount Meru

Dominating the center of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is a 4,566-meter-high active volcano, making it the second-highest mountain in the country (after Kilimanjaro, of course).

For the thrill-seekers out there, it's possible to climb this towering peak, but be warned, it's not for the faint-hearted. Depending on your level of fitness, the trek can usually be completed in four days, although some do it in three, but it's tough work.

Unlike Kilimanjaro, there's only one way up to the top, and it's not easy. Even the most experienced hikers can struggle on this one because of the high altitude, so come prepared and choose your operator wisely.

Mount Meru and its towering presence. A favorite of many hikers. A safari in Arusha National Park is a great addition to do after the climb

Go and See the Ngurdoto Crater

Out of the five volcanic craters in northern Tanzania, Ngurdoto Crater is one of the more impressive ones. Sometimes called 'Little Ngorongoro' because of how similar it is to the Ngorongoro Crater, it's one attraction that everyone needs to see while in Arusha National Park.

Ngurdoto Crater is characterized by vertical cliffs covered in thick jungle that spread 3.2 kilometers in total, with a whopping 300 meters deep. There's a good chance you'll end up here on your safari, as it's a prime location for spotting species of elephants, warthogs, monkeys, leopards, and much more.

Take a Walking Safari

Arusha National Park is a hotspot for walking safaris. Discovering the flora and fauna on foot is a magical experience, allowing you to get a closer look at the diverse terrains and intriguing wildlife that many game drives can't offer. The prospect of wandering around a park filled with powerful creatures can be understandably daunting, but rest assured, you'll be in safe hands with your experienced guide and armed ranger.

Walking safaris tend to take place in specific areas within the park's confines. One such area is the dense forest around the Ngurdoto Crater, while other stand-out spots include the flamingo-filled Lake Momella and the Arusha Waterfalls.

Depending on your needs and preferences, you'll have your pick between short, one-hour walks or much longer, half-day outings, all of which can be included in your safari itinerary.

Hit the Water for a Canoeing Adventure

In addition to the animal-spotting adventures you can enjoy on foot or four wheels, you'll also have the opportunity to explore by canoe. These expeditions are set in the tranquil Lake Momella, which is actually composed of several small lakes. Most canoeing trips take place in what’s referred to as the Small Lake Momella, where you can sail past the giraffes, hippos, and bushbucks that live along the water's edge.

Of course, you'll likely be joined by some fascinating waterbirds along the way. Flamingos, herons, cormorants, and pelicans all call Lake Momella home, so keep your eyes peeled. Similar to walking safaris, canoe tours can last anywhere from one hour to upwards of three hours, depending on the provider you book with.

Snap a Photo of the Fig Tree

Arusha National Park’s Fig Tree has gained iconic status in recent years, thanks to the rise of social media. What makes this massive tree truly unique is the large arch at its center, where vehicles drive through it while out and about on their game drives. Occasionally, you might even spot animals passing underneath, creating an incredible photo opportunity.

The Fig Tree is located near the picturesque Tululusia Waterfalls, but if it’s your first visit to the park, finding it on your own might be a challenge as it’s hidden away. Luckily, your guide will have no trouble leading you there.

Refresh at Tululusia Waterfall

Falling down the northeastern side of Mount Meru, Tululusia Waterfall is a 28-meter-high waterfall hidden away in the depths of Arusha National Park. After a long day in the back of a safari jeep, there’s nothing more satisfying than cooling off under the waterfall.

To reach Tululuisa Waterfall, you'll need to head to the northern part of the park and take the short trek from Momela Gate. While the walk is short, it's one hike we think everyone should experience in Tanzania; it's not too strenuous, there are stunning examples of nature wherever you look, and there's still a chance to see some animals along the way, including giraffes and even buffalos. What more could you ask for?

5. TOP ACTIVITIES AROUND ARUSHA

Go Souvenir Shopping at the Maasai Market Curios and Crafts

The Maasai Market is one of the best places to visit in Arusha for quirky handicrafts, keepsakes, and artworks. Colorful jewelry, eye-catching canvases, tiny trinkets, carved wooden ornaments, and everything in between are available here, with upwards of one hundred stalls lining the bazaar.

Even if you're not the most enthusiastic shopper, simply browsing through the endless stalls of brightly-colored souvenirs is reason enough to visit. You'll need to arrive with your bargaining skills in tow, but be sure you're fair and reasonable with your offers, as the vendors have to come out with a profit.

Brush up on Local History at the Cultural Heritage Centre

There's no better way to familiarize yourself with Arusha's lengthy history and traditions than with a visit to the Cultural Heritage Centre. While there are a few places to visit in the city to captivate culture buffs, this is by far the best way to introduce yourself to the local customs and way of life.

Inside, there are four floors packed with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts showcasing the culture of northern Tanzania through the years. This magnificent museum is huge, so you'll want to give yourself at least a few hours to make it to each carefully curated level. Better yet, entry to this superb spot is entirely free.

Sample Fresh Produce at the Kilombero Market

Tanzania has incredibly favorable conditions for growing fruits, vegetables, and spices, and you'll find some of the finest produce available at the Kilombero Market. This is a local marketplace, making visiting an even more worthwhile experience if you're keen to get an insight into everyday life in Arusha.

You'll be in with the chance to pick up some of the most delectable avocados, mangoes, and guava you'll ever taste. Along the way, keep an eye out for lesser-known delights like bungo, kungu, and ubuyu, which are fruits most people have never heard of.

Uncover the Coffee-Making Process at a Local Coffee Plantation

One of the top Arusha activities is stopping by a coffee farm and discovering the behind-the-scenes coffee cultivation. Coffee is among Tanzania's most important exports, and the north of the country is home to some terrific plantations. Here, budding connoisseurs can learn the multi-step process that is involved in coffee production, all while sampling plenty of fresh brews, of course.

Numerous farms are open to visitors and are within easy reach of Arusha, such as Bakara Coffee Farm and Kingstone Asilia. For a more immersive experience, spend the night at Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana (one of the lodges we offer our guests to stay during our African Lion Safari). This lavish lodging is encircled by coffee plantations, meaning you can balance coffee tours and tastings with lazy afternoons by the pool or in the in-house spa.

Enjoy Arusha's Lively Nightlife Scene

When you're planning a trip to Arusha, you're most likely not coming here with nightlife in mind. However, if you're in the city for a few days and are looking for things to do at night, why not swing by some of the buzzing bars and clubs in the center?

There are far more late-night hotspots in Arusha than many people realize, including a diverse mix of casual bars like Rafiki Juice Bar and lively clubs such as the Hub. Whether you're hoping to dance until the sun rises or soak up city views from a rooftop, you'll have many much-loved haunts to choose from. Certain spots are busier on select nights of the week, so it's best to do some research in advance, depending on the days you plan to be here.

Admire Handcrafted Jewels at the Tanzanite Experience

Tanzanite is a stunning mineral that's only found in a small district in Tanzania's Manyara district. This area is several hours south of Arusha, but there's a fabulous museum in the city's heart where you can learn how these extremely rare gems are mined, processed, and polished.

The Tanzanite Experience is a stellar spot for anyone searching for something unique to do, as it's an experience you won't find in any other part of the world. Should you be interested in picking up some tanzanite for yourself, there's a jewelry store onsite where beautiful, handmade pieces are for sale for surprisingly affordable prices. Most of the items you'll see in store were crafted by local Maasai women, who are part of one of Tanzania's biggest tribes, the Maasai. You’ll be happy to know that a substantial amount of the money earned goes back into their community with every purchase.

Take a Dip in the Kikuletwa Hot Springs

If you're someone who'd prefer to get out of the city during their one day in Arusha but are unsure of what to do, a trip to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs will be perfect for you. This gorgeous turquoise pool is tucked amongst the vibrant green fig trees and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

It's situated a little over 70 km outside of Arusha, so it can take over an hour and a half to get here. While it may be time-consuming, the natural beauty and unmatched tranquility are worth every minute of the journey. Despite the name, these springs are anything but hot, and the water tends to be lukewarm for the most part. Because of this, it's an ideal spot for a refreshing dip, especially if you're visiting when the weather is particularly hot and humid.

A Coffee Bean Plant. Arusha is famous for its varied coffee farms, most of which are open to the public. Be sure to visit if you have time on your travels / Image: @rachedda

6. WHAT ARE THE FEES TO ENTER ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK?

The entry fees for Arusha National Park are subject to change and can vary from year to year. These tariffs are in place to protect and conserve the park and its residents, and the amount you'll pay will depend on your age, nationality, residency status, and the time of year you visit.

As of 2025, the fees to enter Arusha National Park per person per day are as follows:

Peak Season Prices:

East African citizen: TZS 10,000 ($3.67)
Non-EA citizens: TZS 136,120.28 ($50)
Expats / Tanzanian residents: TZS 68060.14 ($25)

Non-Peak Prices:

East African citizen: TZS 10,000 ($3.67)
Non-EA citizens: TZS 122,508.25 ($45)
Expats / Tanzanian residents: TZS 61,254.13 ($22.50)

Hartlaub's turacos - one of the stunning tropical birds you can spot in Arusha National Park / Image: @pchoogm_nl

7. THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

A visit to Arusha National Park is best enjoyed during Tanzania's dry season, which runs from June to October and December to March. With less rainfall, you’ll have a greater chance of spotting all the main types of wildlife on your bucket list. Additionally, the dry weather significantly reduces the likelihood of game drive cancellations, a major advantage if you’re short on time.

We recommend avoiding visits between March and May, as this period brings the heavy 'Masika' rains, which often cause major disruptions throughout the park.

8. WILDLIFE IN ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

Arusha may be one of Tanzania’s smaller national parks, but it sure does have a vast amount of wildlife. For starters, it houses the biggest giraffe population on the planet; while the official numbers are hard to predict, it's estimated there were 462 back in 2021. In addition to giraffes, the park has a huge number of hippos, zebras, elephants, Cape buffalo, and, with a bit of luck, you might even spot leopards or lions.

A Tanzania hippo with its mouth wide open. There are plenty of hippos to see in Arusha National Park when you visit. Catch a glimpse of them throughout the main water sources in the park / Image: @aj5photos

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How Long Should I Spend in Arusha National Park?

Thanks to its relatively small size, it's possible to take in the highlights of Arusha National Park over a few days. This amount of time in the park gives you the chance to go on game drives and guided walks if you're visiting to see some wildlife.

However, if you're traveling here intending to summit the iconic Mount Meru, you'll need to set aside at least four days for the hike alone.

Is There Any Accommodation in Arusha National Park?

There's an abundance of accommodation in Arusha National Park. Some choose to base themselves in the city during their visit, but those searching for a more immersive safari experience can spend the night onsite. From campsites and rustic guesthouses to plush hotels, the accommodation options here are incredibly wide-ranging.

Can You Do a Day-Tour of Arusha National Park?

Arusha National Park's convenient location close to Arusha city makes it a fantastic day-trip destination once you plan ahead of time. This is an excellent option for anyone on limited time or hoping to squeeze in another park on the northern Tanzania safari circuit before flying home from Arusha Airport.

Is Arusha Safe to Visit for Tourists?

You don’t need to worry about your safety in Arusha; it’s completely safe for tourists. The only real risk comes from the animals in the park, but even then, your guide will be by your side, showing you how to behave appropriately and stay safe.

You can find lions within Arusha National Park. Behaving appropriately around predators is very important within the confines of your safari vehicle / Image: @bist31

Buckle up for Surreal Animal Encounters in Arusha National Park

Tanzania's exceptional safari spots have become some of the planet's most desirable travel destinations. Yet, Arusha National Park proves there are still a handful of hidden gems in the East African nation.

If you have any more questions regarding Arusha National Park or others in the region, don't hesitate to get in touch with us directly through our Contact Us page.

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Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, in a group, or with family, contact us today to start planning your amazing journey to Arusha National Park!

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Your Complete Guide to Arusha National Park