Arusha National Park Day Safari

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A day safari to Arusha National Park is a fantastic option for a short and diverse wildlife experience. Its proximity to the city of Arusha makes it a popular choice for those with limited time or as a warm-up for a longer safari on the Northern Circuit. The park’s unique blend of activities and scenery sets it apart from other Tanzanian parks.

Arusha National Park Day Tour

Highlights of a Day Safari to Arusha National Park

  • Diverse Landscapes: The park is stunningly beautiful and is dominated by Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain. You’ll explore three distinct areas:
      • Ngurdoto Crater: Often called “Little Ngorongoro,” this is a smaller caldera with a marshy floor where you can often spot large herds of buffalo.
      • Momella Lakes: A series of seven shallow, alkaline lakes that are a breeding ground for a huge variety of water birds, including flamingoes.
      • Forest & Savannah: You’ll also drive through lush rainforest and open grassland, providing homes for different species of animals

Unique Activities: What makes an Arusha National Park day trip special is the chance to do more than just a game drive.

    • Walking Safari: Accompanied by an armed ranger, you can walk through the forest, getting a close-up perspective of the wildlife and a chance to see animals like giraffes, buffalo, and a wide variety of birds on foot. This is a rare opportunity in Tanzanian national parks.
    • Canoe Safari: For an additional cost, you can take a canoe trip on one of the Momella Lakes, offering a tranquil way to observe hippos and flamingos from the water.

Wildlife 

While you won’t see the “Big Five” (rhinos are not present), the park has a rich diversity of wildlife. It’s particularly known for:

Giraffes: The park is famous for its large population of graceful giraffes.
Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys: These beautiful and rare primates are a highlight, and they’re often seen in the forest areas.
Buffalo: Large herds of Cape buffalo are a common sight, especially near the Ngurdoto Crater.
Birds: With over 400 species, the Arusha National park is a paradise for birdwatchers.

Leopard: If you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive leopard resting in the trees. Arusha National Park is not as crowded as other parks in Tanzania, so you’ll have better chances of seeing these magnificent creatures up close.

Warthogs:

Arusha National Park Day Tour

Typical Itinerary for Arusha National Park Day Safari

Early Morning (Approx. 8:00 AM): A safari vehicle and guide will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha. The drive to the park gate (Momella or Ngongongare Gate) is about 45 minutes to an hour.

Late Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): After completing the park formalities, your day begins. The itinerary often combines a game drive with a walking safari. You might start with a game drive, exploring the landscapes and looking for animals, followed by a guided walk through the forest. The walking safari typically lasts a few hours.

Midday (Approx. 1:00 PM): You’ll stop at a scenic location for a packed picnic lunch, usually with a view of the Momella Lakes or a beautiful waterfall.

Afternoon (Approx. 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): After lunch, you continue with more game driving. This is also a good time to consider an optional canoe safari on one of the Momella Lakes. Your guide will take you to different areas of the park to maximize your chances of spotting a wide range of animals.

Late Afternoon (Approx. 5:00 PM onwards): You’ll begin the drive back to Arusha, arriving at your hotel before sunset.

Tour Cost

The cost of a day safari to Arusha National Park varies based on the tour operator, the size of your group, and the inclusions.

    • Solo traveler: US $ 420
    • 2 persons: US $ 240 per person
    • 3 person: US $ 180 per person
    • 4 – 5: Person: US $ 150 per person

What’s Included: A standard package typically covers:

    • Round-trip transportation from Arusha.
    • Park entrance fees ($50 USD for non-residents over 16, plus tax).
    • The guided walking safari with an armed ranger.
    • A professional, English-speaking guide/driver.
    • A packed lunch and bottled water.

What’s Excluded:

    • Tipping your guide is customary and not included.
    • Optional activities like a canoe safari will also incur an extra charge.

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Tips for Your  Day Tour in Arusha National Park

 

  • Wear Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes to adapt to the varied activities and changing temperatures throughout the day.
  • Bring Binoculars and Camera: To fully enjoy the wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, having a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens is essential.
  • Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water to keep yourself hydrated during the tour, especially if you’re doing a walking tour.
  • Respect the Wildlife: Always listen to your guide’s instructions and keep a safe distance from the animals to ensure a respectful and safe encounter for both you and the wildlife.

A day trip to Arusha National Park is a great way to experience a different side of a Tanzanian safari, with its stunning scenery and unique walking and canoeing opportunities.

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