Arusha National Park Day Trip — Mt. Meru, Momela Lakes & Ngurdoto Crater
Spend a focused day exploring Mt. Meru’s slopes, the serene Momela Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater. This accessible park offers relaxed game viewing, canopy primates, volcanic scenery and a practical half-day safari from Arusha.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changing conditions
Temperatures can shift on Mt. Meru’s slopes and by the lakes — bring a light insulating layer and a packable rain shell.
Bring binoculars
Wildlife is visible from roads and lakeshores; binoculars make colobus monkeys and distant giraffes much easier to spot.
Sun protection
At higher elevation UV is stronger — wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen during midday drives and walks.
Stay on vehicle roads
Ngurdoto Crater and lakes have fragile vegetation; follow guide instructions and avoid off-trail walking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the Momela Lakes circuit at golden hour for waterbird concentrations and reflective light.
- •A short guided forest walk near the park headquarters often reveals colobus troops and endemic birdlife.
Wildlife
- •Black-and-white colobus monkey
- •Reticulated giraffe
Conservation Note
The park conserves montane forest and fragile lake ecosystems under pressure from surrounding agriculture and development; visitors help by staying on roads, not feeding wildlife and following local guidelines.
Arusha National Park was established to protect highland forests, volcanic features and freshwater ecosystems near the town of Arusha; Mt. Meru’s volcanic form shapes much of the park’s terrain.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provide traction on dirt tracks and short forest paths.
BinocularsEssential
Makes spotting monkeys, birds and distant ungulates far easier.
Light rain jacketEssential
Useful during Tanzania’s wet months when showers can appear quickly.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong equatorial sun, especially on exposed lakeshores.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
This day trip runs about six hours, typically with morning or full-day departures from Arusha including game drives and short walks.
Are park entrance fees included?
Inclusions vary by operator — many bookings include a certified guide but confirm whether park entrance fees and vehicle costs are part of the price before you book.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include eastern black-and-white colobus monkeys in the canopy, giraffes, buffalo, warthogs and a range of waterbirds around the Momela Lakes; sightings are never guaranteed.
Is this suitable for children and less mobile travelers?
Yes — the tour is rated easy and suitable for most fitness levels; discuss any mobility needs with the operator to arrange closer vehicle access where possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Arusha, Arusha Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal sustained hiking, mostly short walks and vehicle transfers
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