Arusha National Park

Size

• Covers approximately 552 square kilometers

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Major Features

Arusha National Park is dominated by Mount Meru,
Tanzania’s second-highest mountain.

Key Physical Features:

1. Mount Meru (4,566 m) – A dormant volcano
2. Ngurdoto Crater – A large volcanic crater with forests and swamps
3. Momella Lakes – A group of alkaline lakes with different colors
4. Montane Forests – Dense forests on Mount Meru’s slopes

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Vegetation

• Montane forests
• Grasslands
• Savannah
• Alpine vegetation at higher elevations

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Wildlife

Mammals

• Giraffes
• Buffaloes
• Zebras
• Warthogs
• Blue monkeys
• Colobus monkeys
• Leopards (rarely seen)

Note: Lions are not commonly found in the park.

Birds

• Over 400 bird species, including:
  • Flamingos (Momella Lakes)
  • Crowned cranes
  • Eagles
  • Hornbills

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Climate

• Cooler climate due to high altitude
• Dry season: June–October
• Wet seasons:
  • March–May (long rains)
  • November–December (short rains)

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Conservation and History

• Established in 1960
• Protected to conserve forests, wildlife, and water catchment areas

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Tourism Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

• Game drives
• Canoeing on Momella Lakes
• Guided walking safaris
• Mountain climbing (Mount Meru)
• Bird watching
• Photography

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Importance

Arusha National Park is important because it:

• Protects Mount Meru’s ecosystem
• Supports water catchment areas
• Preserves bird biodiversity
• Promotes tourism and environmental education

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Fun Facts

• One of the few parks in Tanzania where canoeing is allowed
• Offers views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days
• Ideal for short safaris and day trips