Arusha National Park Day Trip: Walking Safari, Momella Lakes & Ngurdoto Crater
Explore Arusha National Park on a full-day walking safari and game drive from Moshi—forest trails to a waterfall, then open-roof wildlife viewing at Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early and be punctual
Pickup is at 08:00 from Moshi; the drive to the park is about an hour and the schedule is tight.
Bring layers and a light rain shell
Mountain weather changes quickly—mornings can be cool in the shade and wet during short rains.
Protect your camera gear
Use a zoom lens for wildlife and a waterproof case or cover for sudden showers.
Follow ranger guidance
Keep distance from animals and never attempt to feed or approach wildlife for photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ngurdoto Crater rim viewpoints—quiet early-morning vantage points for wide-angle landscape photos.
- •The quieter shores of the Momella Lakes where shorebirds congregate at low tide and reflections are best just after sunrise.
Wildlife
- •Black-and-white colobus monkey
- •Giraffe
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to stay on authorised trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and follow ranger instructions to minimise disturbance to sensitive habitats and species.
Arusha National Park was created to protect the diverse habitats on Mount Meru’s slopes and surrounding plains; its establishment in the 20th century helped conserve important montane and wetland ecosystems.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and grip for rainforest trails and rocky viewpoints.
Light rain jacketEssential
Protects against sudden showers common in the highlands (long rains March–May).
Binoculars
Improves distant wildlife and bird viewing at Momella Lakes and crater edges.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Sun protection for game drives on exposed savanna and lakeshores.
Common Questions
What time does the tour start and end?
The trip departs Moshi at 08:00 and is approximately nine hours round-trip, returning to Moshi in the late afternoon.
Are park fees included?
Yes—park fees are included in the trip price, along with lunch box, bottled water, guide and 4x4 transport.
Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes; the itinerary is rated easy and suitable for most ages, though children should be supervised during walking sections.
How likely am I to see big animals like elephants or leopards?
Common sightings include giraffe, zebra, buffalo and waterbuck; elephants and leopards are possible but less frequently seen and not guaranteed.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 hours
Location
Arusha, Arusha Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short periods of walking on uneven forest trails and some standing during game drives
Ready to Explore Arusha?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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