What is special about Arusha National Park? Arusha National Park is located on Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Although the park is only a few kilometers north of Arusha, the main gate is 25 kilometers east of the city. The park covers approximately 137 square kilometers and hosts a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. The park is famous for being a home to the second highest mountain in Tanzania, Mount Meru and the world’s largest giraffe population. The protected area was established in 1960 as Ngurdoto crater National Park and later in 1967 it was changed to Arusha National Park. Arusha national park is a home to the world’s largest giraffe population. Other wild animals include; elephant, Cape buffalo, Warthog, bush pigs, waterbucks, bush bucks, duikers, dik- dik, spotted hyenas, leopards and lions. Black and white colobus and blue monkeys are residents in the park. The park is a home to 400 bird species and these include endemics, forest and migratory species. Here are some of the key features that makes Arusha National Park a special destination for your safari in Tanzania.
The Majestic Mount Meru
One of the park’s most striking features is the towering Mount Meru, which rises to about 4,566 meters and is the second-highest peak in Tanzania. Mount Meru is a dormant stratovolcano located 70 kilometres west of Kilimanjaro in southeast Arusha Region, Tanzania. Mount Meru features a base of 20 km at 2,000 m and some of its walls at 2,500m have broken away, is said to have been the tallest volcano in Tanzania but due to the volcanic eruption it’s top broke off leaving behind a caldera, the volcano last erupted in 1910. Climbing Mount Meru provides breathtaking views not only of the park itself but also of the distant peaks of Kilimanjaro on a clear day. The mountain is often overlooked in favor of Kilimanjaro, but those who take the time to explore Meru find a serene beauty and the chance to encounter rare wildlife, including the elusive black and white colobus monkeys. The best time for hiking safaris to the summit is in November, which is a very interesting and wonderful time. This is a wonderful hiking spot for this great mountain. The mountain offers the best hiking safari experience, and this is so great. There are also a lot of touristy activities that can be done on Mount Meru.
Unique Wildlife Sightings
Arusha National Park is home to several species that are not commonly found in other safari areas. The park is particularly famous for its population of giraffe population. Other wild animals include; elephant, Cape buffalo, Warthog, bush pigs, waterbucks, bush bucks, duikers, dik- dik, spotted hyenas, leopards and lions. Black and white colobus and blue monkeys are residents in the park, which are a delight to observe as they leap from branch to branch
Additionally, visitors can witness the park’s rich birdlife with over 400 species recorded, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. You might spot bird for instance pink hued flamingos, African fish eagle, African olive pigeon, Silvery-cheeked hornbill, Egyptian goose, Augur buzzard, Bar-tailed trogon, Bearded vulture, Black saw-wing, Cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Great crested grebe, Hamerkops, white browed coucals, bronzy sunbirds, pied Avocet, red billed oxpeckers, great headed bush shrikes, pelicans, golden eagles, yellow billed storks, Hartlaub’s turaco, Little grebe, Narina trogon, Peregrine falcon, Red-fronted parrot, Scaly francolin, Southern Pochard, Tawny eagle, Verreaux’s eagle among others
Scenic Lakes
The park is also known for its stunning lakes, with Momella Lakes being the most notable. Momella Lakes are a chain of lakes found in northeast region of Arusha national park, this chain of lakes consists of 7 spectacular alkaline lakes formed as a result of volcanic debris from a huge explosion which blew away the top of Mount Meru about 250,000 years ago. Momella lakes include Big Momella, small Momella, El Kekhotoito, Kusare, Rishateni, Lekandiro and Tulusia. Momella lakes are fed by water from underground spring water and each lake has different water color ranging from green to turquoise. These lakes are surrounded by lush vegetation and are often teeming with birdlife, including herons, shoe bill, pink flamingos, Egyptian geese, guinea fowls, African fish eagles, African jacanas among others. The lakes provide a perfect setting for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Unique Flora
One of the remarkable features of Arusha National Park is its unique flora. The park is characterized by different vegetation types, such as, the lower parts of the park are covered by the savannah vegetation. This is dominated by open grassland areas interspersed with acacia woodlands. The lower montane forests have a combination of trees that stay green all year and those that lose their leaves in the fall. Near the Ngurdoto crater, you can find tropical plants, including marshes, swamps, and grassy spots surrounded by forested hills. The Momella lakes are covered by wetlands and swampy vegetation. The fringes of the lakes have tall grasses and aquatic plants like papyrus. On high slopes of Mount Meru, the vegetation transitions into alpine vegetation featuring hardy shrubs, heathers, and grasses. This alpine area is home to unique plants like giant lobelias and giant groundsels
Accessibility
Arusha National Park is conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from the bustling town of Arusha, making it easily accessible for visitors. Its proximity to Kilimanjaro International airport to Arusha airport also makes it a perfect stop before or after climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting other parks. This accessibility means that even those short on time can carve out a day or two to experience the park’s wonders.
In conclusion
Arusha National Park may not have the same fame as some of its neighbours, but it offers a unique charm and an array of features that make it a special destination in Tanzania. From the breathtaking views of Mount Meru to the stunning diversity of ecosystems and wildlife, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re trekking through lush forests, canoeing on serene lakes, or immersing yourself in local culture, you’ll find that Arusha National Park is a place where natural beauty and adventure come together harmoniously.
