Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a popular Tanzania safari destination as you set off for further northern Safaris, it is also known as the jewel in the shadows of the giants. It is a gem of varied ecosystems and has a spectacular view of Mountain Meru. Along the lower slopes, Tourists will enjoy the relaxing rivers and lakes as well as get the chance to spot the famous black and white colobus monkey. Arusha national park is the ideal place to travel to because of its diverse ecosystem and animals.

History of the park

The first European to visit the Momella area was count Teleki who was a Hungarian hunter. He was overwhelmed by a large number of black rhinos and hippopotamuses. Unfortunately, these animals no longer live in this area because, in 1907, the Trappe family moved into the Momella area in search of farmland and the elder Mrs. Trappe became the first-ever female professional hunter in East Africa in 1960, the park was established and the Trappe farm was incorporated as part of the park.in 1967, Mt. Meru also became part of the park and the park was changed to Arusha national park. The name Arusha was derived from the people living in the area called the Waarusha people.

Wildlife in Arusha National Park

Arusha national park has a unique variety of animals within its boundaries, however, the park has only one of the big five animals which is the Buffalo as well as other animals such as the Giraffes, Zebras, Elephants, Hippos, and other small animals such as the famous white and black colobus monkey.

The park also happens to have over 400 species of birds and the fact that the park is small makes that number rather impressive. These birds include; flamingos, pelicans, little grebes, a variety of herons, ducks and waders are common. Augur Buzzard, Verreaux’s eagle, and other cliff-associated raptors. Migratory birds are also seen during April and November.

Attractions in Arusha National Park

Game drives

The guide will take you through wooden savannah where you will see Buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and other fascinating animals as well as a variety of birds in the trees. This activity will give you an amazing experience of Arusha national park.

Hiking on Mountain Meru

Mount Meru is the second largest mountain in Tanzania and the fourth largest in Africa. It is also one of the most active volcanoes on the continent. The activity is breath-taking and the view of Mt. Kilimanjaro from this point is extremely amazing. A hike to the top will give you the experience of a lifetime with its refreshing climate, beautiful birds, and monkeys such as the black and white colobus monkeys moving from tree to tree.

Boat trip

Arusha national park has 7 lakes known as the Momella lakes. These include; small Momella, big Momella, Kusare, Lekandiro, Tulusia, Nishitani, and El Kekhototi. The alkalinity of the water makes it blue and sometimes green and attracts animals such as Giraffes, Zebras, and other animals. This boat trip gives you an opportunity to enjoy the serenity of these lakes as well as view the animals.

Bird watching

Arusha national park is definitely a birders paradise because of its variety and a large number of birds. This is due to their ecosystem that is conducive for many birds as well as relief features such as Mountains, lakes, and woodland that attract birds like Flamingos.

Ngurdoto Crater

This crater is a lush swamp and steep-sided bowl surrounded by riverine forest within the park. The crater is 3km wide and is a natural sanctuary to several animals such as the African Buffalo, Elephants, Baboons, Monkeys, and birds like the Spur-winged geese.

Uwanja Wa Mbogo.

500 meters into Arusha national park lays an area where Buffaloes graze as well as warthogs and other herbivorous animals. If one is in luck, they will be able to see a leopard in the trees.

Accommodation in Arusha National Park

While at the jewel in the shadow of giants, your comfort will be taken catered for at; Arusha Giraffe lodge, Crest safari lodge, Karama lodge, Settlers executive lodge, Arusha coffee lodge, Arusha planet lodge, Masai camp, Vijiji center, New favor lodge, and many other lodges and hotels to pick from.