Looking to book a safari in Arusha National Park?
Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha serves as the gateway to some of the world’s most unique wildlife experiences in Tanzania.
I personally went on a private Arusha Safari with Altezza Travel, and it was an experience I will not soon forget.
In this comprehensive guide, discover everything you need to know about an Arusha safari, from what’s included in the tour, to the animals you’ll see, and much more!
OVERVIEW: SAFARI IN ARUSHA
Let’s start this guide with the essentials you should know before visiting, such as the best time to visit, where to book, and other important information.
ARUSHA SAFARI STATS
- Size: 552km² / 213mi²
- Altitude: 1,280-4,217m / 4,199-13,835ft
- Best time to visit: June to October
- Best attractions: Momella Lakes, Arusha Waterfall, Mount Meru
IS ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK WORTH VISITING?
Yes, Arusha National Park is definitely worth visiting. While it might not be the first choice for those seeking the “Big Five,” you’ll love its unique features.
The park offers opportunities for hiking and canoeing, which are not commonly found in other Tanzanian parks.
Also, you may be able to see flamingos and colobus monkeys, which are less common in other parks.
CAN YOU DO AN ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI ON YOUR OWN?
Unlike other places in Tanzania like Tarangire National Park, you need a guide to visit Arusha National Park.
This is for your safety and to enhance your experience as these guides are knowledgeable about the park’s flora and fauna.
And let’s face it – everything is much more enjoyable when you know where to go with an experienced guide!
WHERE TO BOOK AN ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI?
I personally booked a 3-day private safari with Altezza Travel which included a day in Arusha National Park, a day in Tarangire National Park, and a day in Ngorongoro Crater.
Altezza is a premier tour operator who has extensive expertise when it comes to the service and logistics of safari tours within Tanzania’s national parks.
They have an impressive safari fleet of Land Cruisers with a convertible pop-up roof that provides a panoramic 360° view. They’re also equipped with amenities such as a fridge for your refreshments, Wi-Fi access, and power sockets.
Each safari is customizable, tailoring the ideal dream tour to align with your specific travel style and comfort preferences.
When it comes to accommodation, you’ll be presented with options that include luxurious stone-built lodges and more authentic tented lodge experiences.
Special Offer: Altezza extends a 5% discount on all Tanzania Safari to my readers when you include the code JONNYMELON during your booking inquiry.
HOW MUCH DOES A SAFARI IN ARUSHA COST?
The cost of a safari in Arusha National Park will vary depending on your itinerary and the tour operator.
For a budget safari, you can expect to pay around $150 per person per day. On the other hand, for a more premium experience, you will find safaris for over $1,000 per person per day.
A mid-range option falls somewhere in between at around $300 to $500 per person per day.
I recommend the 1-day Arusha National Park Safari with Altezza Travel which costs $263 per person for a group of 5 people, or $444 per person for a couple.
HOW LONG DOES A SAFARI IN ARUSHA TANZANIA TAKE?
Normally, a visit to Arusha National Park is a one-day trip, providing a compact yet diverse introduction to Tanzanian wildlife.
That being said, the most popular safaris are multi-day experiences, often lasting 3 days or more. These safaris typically include multiple national parks.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK?
The best time for wildlife viewing in Arusha National Park is during the dry season, from late June to October.
During these months, animals are easier to spot as they gather around water sources. The vegetation is also thinner, which means it’s easier to see the animals and take photos.
The weather during this period is typically better, with average daytime temperatures around 21°C (70°F), dropping to around 9°C (48°F) at night.
MY EXPERIENCE ON THE ARUSHA SAFARI
After our Kilimanjaro trek, we were transferred by the Altezza Travel crew to Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge located just outside of Arusha National Park.
We spent one night here, and at around 7:30 am the morning after, our safari guide arrived at the hotel.
From the lodge, we began our journey to the entrance gate at Arusha National Park, a short 30-minute drive.
The first activity was a 1.5-hour walking safari with a guide and armed ranger around a section of the park.
We spotted countless wildlife such as warthogs, buffaloes, baboons, and giraffes to name a few, then we continued to check out the beautiful Tululusia Waterfall.
After the walking safari, we drove around the stunning Momella Lakes filled with pink flamingos, and then stopped for lunch at a picnic site overlooking Mount Meru.
We continued our Arusha National Park safari with a 2-hour game drive, spotting many more animal species and seeing some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve seen in Africa.
ARUSHA SAFARI – FAQ
Now that you have a better idea of what to expect on a safari from Arusha, below are some answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.
WHAT’S INCLUDED ON A SAFARI IN ARUSHA?
When you book a safari in Arusha National Park with Altezza Travel, all the below are included:
- Pick-up and drop-off in Moshi or Kilimanjaro Airport
- Arusha National Park entrance fees
- A walking safari in the national park with a ranger
- Safe and modern safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Binoculars to spot the animals from afar
- Lunch, soft drinks, and bottled drinking water
WHAT ANIMALS TO SEE ON A SAFARI IN ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK?
Arusha National Park isn’t the most diverse in terms of animal species, but you’ll surely see some unique wildlife.
Here are some common animals you’ll spot;
- Buffaloes: Countless herds of African buffalo, often found grazing in the savannah, are common in Arusha National Park.
- Giraffes: Giraffes roam freely in the national park, and you’ll see their long necks reaching for leaves in the treetops.
- Zebras: The iconic black-and-white stripes of zebras add a striking contrast to the landscape, and they make every photo look even better!
- Antelopes: Various antelope species, including impalas, bushbucks, and waterbucks, can be spotted.
- Baboons: You definitely won’t miss the baboons on your safari in Arusha.
- Leopards: Though rare, Arusha National Park is known for occasional leopard sightings.
Remember, every Arusha National Park safari is unique, and nature operates on its own schedule.
You’re 99% guaranteed to spot lots of animals, but keep in mind that no guide can guarantee any sightings.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR ARUSHA SAFARI TANZANIA?
Here is a quick overview of what to pack for a safari in Arusha National Park;
Clothing: Comfort is key on a safari. Pack lightweight cotton clothes, long-sleeved shirts, and pants to protect against mosquitoes. I suggest packing layered clothing, as mornings and evenings can be cool while days are warm.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes like trainers are recommended.
Essentials: Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat for protection against the sun. Also, carry a day bag for your everyday essentials.
Camera Gear: A camera with extra memory cards, batteries, a power bank, and a charger will help you capture the best memories from your trip.
RELATED ARTICLE: BEST CAMERA GEAR FOR TRAVEL
IS THERE WI-FI ON THE SAFARI?
If you have a local SIM card, the mobile network is relatively consistent in Arusha National Park, Tanzania.
This means that you will be able to use your mobile data for browsing the internet, posting on social media, and staying connected as a whole.
The safari vehicles are also conveniently fitted with a Wi-Fi dongle.
Some lodges inside the park offer free Wi-Fi and most hotels in cities and towns also have Wi-Fi available for guest use.
Yet, keep in mind that you’re in a remote location and the connection might not always be strong.
WHERE TO STAY IN ARUSHA?
I personally stayed at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, just 30 minutes from Arusha National Park, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Features include a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, horses and stables, an indoor fireplace with a shared lounge, a garden terrace, and a bar.
Accommodations include a patio with garden views, a fully equipped kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with a shower.
A continental breakfast is also included every morning at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge for all staying guests.
OTHER HOTELS IN ARUSHA
For all other options in Arusha, there are dozens of hotels to choose from when planning your trip.
I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: GRAND MELIA ARUSHA
MID-RANGE: HARADALI’S HOME
BUDGET: KARIBU HERITAGE HOUSE
FINAL THOUGHTS – SAFARI IN ARUSHA TANZANIA
This is everything you need to know before going on a safari from Arusha, and I guarantee you’ll have the time of your life in this national park!
If you have any questions, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
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THANKS FOR READING
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