Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha, typically between 0700 and 0730 hours, followed by a scenic drive of approximately 32 kilometers, taking about 45 minutes, through the foothills of Mount Meru to the park entrance. Along the way, guests are treated to panoramic views of Mount Meru, local farms, and forested highlands, providing a gradual introduction to northern Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Upon arrival at Arusha National Park, located at an altitude ranging from 1,400 to 4,566 meters above sea level, you will meet your professional safari guide and begin your adventure. The park covers approximately 137 square kilometers and offers a variety of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, and canoeing. Your guide will brief you on the itinerary for the day, highlighting key attractions such as the Ngurdoto Crater, Momella Lakes, and the forested slopes of Mount Meru.

The tour begins with a game drive through the savannah plains, where you will likely encounter giraffes browsing acacia trees, zebras grazing peacefully, buffalo herds, and a variety of antelope species. Bird watchers can spot flamingos, fish eagles, and the endemic Tanzanian red billed hornbill. The drive continues toward the Ngurdoto Crater, a dramatic volcanic crater approximately 3 kilometers in diameter, offering breathtaking views of the crater floor covered with swamps, grasslands, and wildlife. This area is ideal for photography and light hiking, allowing guests to explore the crater rim safely.

Next, the tour moves to the Momella Lakes, a group of alkaline lakes set against the backdrop of Mount Meru. The lakes attract large flocks of flamingos, storks, and pelicans, creating striking photographic opportunities. Guests may choose to enjoy a canoeing activity on Momella Lake, providing a close-up view of the wildlife and surrounding forested hills.

A picnic lunch will be served at a designated area within the park, allowing you to relax and enjoy the serene natural environment. After lunch, the tour continues with a guided nature walk along forested trails, offering opportunities to spot colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species. The walking safari provides a more intimate connection with the park’s flora and fauna and allows visitors to experience the park’s lush montane forest and volcanic landscapes up close.

In the afternoon, you will begin your return journey to Arusha city, reflecting on a day filled with wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and memorable photographic opportunities, arriving back at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Optional Extra Activities

The following activities can be arranged at an additional cost:

• Guided canoeing on Momella Lake
• Extended bird watching and photography tour
• Walking safari along additional forest trails
• Private photography guide for personalized sessions
• Picnic setup with scenic views overlooking Mount Meru