Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park covers 200 square miles and is a haven for wildlife lovers. It’s a great spot for short trips from Arusha city on self-drive tours. The park is known for being home to the largest population of giraffes in the world. However, there are other mammals such as the Cape buffalo, herds of elephants, hippos, and zebras. The elusive lions and leopards could make a rare appearance during your game drives. While African elephants and leopards call this park home, spotting them can be quite a challenge.

Self-drive Trips and Camping in Arusha National Park.

Exploring Arusha National Park through self-drive excursions offers an excellent chance to experience diverse landscapes such as the Ngurdoto Crater and the Momella Lakes. These adventures are ideal for spotting wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and colobus monkeys, with minimal risk from predators, making them well-suited for independent safaris in rented 4×4 vehicles. Camping within the park requires prior registration and fee payment via card, while nearby options for staying overnight include Hatari Lodge or campsites situated outside the park boundaries. It’s important to have a dependable 4×4 vehicle and properly plan to secure entry and camping permits, which must be paid for using a credit card.

Attractions in Arusha National Park - Self drive Tours Tanzania

Arusha National Park is renowned for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mount Meru, swamps, lakes, waterfalls, and craters! This breathtaking park features a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife. However, it is important to note that there are no lions or rhinos in Arusha National Park, which means you will not be able to witness the Big Five during your visit. While elephants and leopards can be hard to find, buffalo are the only members of the Big Five that are commonly seen in Arusha National Park. For safaris in Arusha National Park, nonresidents aged 16 and over must pay an entrance fee of 50 USD, which is lowered to 45 USD during the low season. Nonresident children between the ages of 5 and 15 are charged an entrance fee of 15 USD. Arusha National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts; it not only has the largest concentration of giraffes in the world but also hosts the nation’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru. Due to the lack of predators, Arusha National Park is an ideal location for a self-drive safari. Upon entering the park, you will be required to fill out a registration form, make the necessary payments, and have a ranger assigned to you.

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We provide high-quality car rental services in Tanzania and across its borders. Reserve a vehicle with us from either Arusha or Dar es Salaam and customise your itinerary. Camping options are available with either rooftop tents or ground tents, depending on your travel schedule. We can deliver your cars to any location of your choice within Tanzania.

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About Safaris in Arusha National Park.

Self-drive trips and camping are highly favoured and practical activities in Arusha National Park. Visitors can take advantage of public campsites equipped with basic amenities or opt for private tented accommodations, all while exploring the park’s stunning landscapes at their own pace. It’s essential, however, to adhere to park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Self-driving in Arusha National Park: Exploring the park via self-drive is an exhilarating way to witness its diverse ecosystems, including montane forests, the picturesque Momella Lakes, and the impressive Ngurdoto Crater. To navigate the mix of paved and rugged dirt roads, especially during the rainy season, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Vehicle and Preparation: A high-clearance 4×4 is ideal for the terrain. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with a spare tyre, a jack, and an emergency kit. It’s also essential to carry enough fuel and water, as refuelling stations are not available within the park.

Navigation: While some roads are well-maintained, signage can be insufficient in more remote areas. Rely on a reliable GPS, but always keep a physical map on hand as a backup.

Rules and Safety

Driving is permitted only between 6 am and 6 pm.
Stick to the 50 km/h speed limit within the park
Stay on designated roads; off-road driving is strictly prohibited.
Exit your vehicle only in designated areas such as picnic sites or campsites, as wildlife poses serious risks.
Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed animals or make excessive noise, as this can disrupt their natural behaviour and could put you in danger.

Bird Watching

Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the diverse avian life here, with many species being more easily spotted compared to other tourist hotspots. If you’re planning a safari in Arusha National Park, keep in mind that self-driving is allowed year-round in all of Tanzania’s national parks. So securing a suitable vehicle, especially a 4×4 jeep, is essential. Arusha offers a uniquely charming experience with its iconic wildlife and the breathtaking view of Mount Meru.

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Other activities include

Walking Safaris: This park stands out as one of the rare locations in East Africa where you can safely embark on a walking adventure with an armed ranger to observe wildlife up close.

Canoeing: Enjoy paddling on the Momella Lakes, a well-known destination celebrated for its abundant flamingo populations and diverse bird species.

Game Drives: Venture through the varied landscapes by vehicle to encounter animals like giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and warthogs.

Horseback Riding & Biking: Experience alternative methods to appreciate the park’s stunning scenery and wildlife.