A half-day of forest walking and open-safari driving around Mount Meru and Momella Lakes, this tour packs rainforest waterfalls, crater rims, and bird-filled alkaline lakes into one accessible outing from Arusha. Ideal for travelers who want wildlife sightings plus a ranger-led walking experience in a compact park.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Arusha on a cool morning and the road opens onto a park where Mount Meru looms like a well-tempered challenge. Rainforest climbs the volcano’s lower slopes, waterfalls cut bright lines down black rock, and the shallow Momella Lakes reflect bands of pink and green algae. On a walking safari you feel the forest move around you — monkeys chattering above, leaves secreting sharp, wet scents — while the later game drive stretches the park’s variety into wide grassy plains and crater rims.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes a ranger-led forest walk on uneven terrain and a seated game drive.
Wildlife
History
Mount Meru’s volcanic activity shaped the park’s craters and valleys; local Maasai and Chagga people have historical ties to the region’s grazing and cultivation practices.
Conservation
Because Arusha NP is small and near settlements, responsible tourism and strict park rules help minimize disturbance to wildlife and protect fragile lake ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Arusha National Park Game drive and Walking Safari Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start Early
Tours leave in the morning to catch animal activity and cooler walking conditions; be ready at pickup by the scheduled time.
Layer Up
Mountain weather changes quickly—bring a light insulating layer and a windbreaker for the walk and open-top game drive.
Bring Optics
Binoculars greatly increase your chance to enjoy shorebirds at Momella Lakes and distant ungulates on the plains.
Keep Distance
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow your ranger’s instructions; never attempt to feed or approach animals.
Binoculars
Helps identify wading birds at the lakes and spot distant mammals on the plains.
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for slippery rainforest paths and uneven crater edges.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong equatorial sun during open drives and lake stops.
summer
Light rain jacket
Useful during short tropical showers, especially in the wet seasons (short and long rains).
spring