Arusha National Park, although smaller than most in Tanzania, has a range of habitats that consist of the forest of Mount Meru, Ngurdoto Crater in the southeast section of the park, and Momela Lakes, a series of seven crater lakes. Black and white Colobus monkeys are easily spotted in the forested area while the marshy floor of the crater is dotted with herds of buffalo, zebra and warthog. Momela Lakes is home to a large selection of resident and migrant waterbirds. People come here to see wildlife and also to climb Mount Meru.
Mount Meru is one of the most beautiful volcanoes in Africa and the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The summit is reached by a narrow ridge, which provides stunning views of the volcanic cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. The ascent is steep but the route passes through parkland, forest, a giant heather zone and moorland.
There are plenty of different types of accommodation in Arusha but the ones that we usually recommend are the ones on the outskirts of the town situated in the lush farm areas. Many of the lodges are set within coffee plantations, surrounded by fertile gardens and most have views of Mount Meru, Mount Kilimanjaro or both. Most offer sanctuary from the busy safari circuit and provide relief after a long plane journey or at the end of a safari. If you have a day or so to spare then we would highly recommend taking a day or half day to visit Arusha National Park.
Only 20 km from Arusha town, Arusha National Park is a picturesque park with varied terrain and retains a feeling of wildness, a fine place to start your safari. It has three distinct topographical features – the inactive volcano of Mount Meru, the Ngurdoto Crater and Momela Lakes. Altitude ranges from 1500 metres to 4500 metres. You’ll see buffaloes, elephants, black and white colobus and blue monkeys, Kirk’s dik-diks and giraffes are common. The lakes are seasonally important for waterbirds. Since there are no lions in the park, you may leave your vehicle and enjoy a walk to one of the observation points.
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