Day Safari in Arusha National Park — Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater & Mount Meru Views

Arusha•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

6–8 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness for short walks and getting in/out of a safari vehicle; not strenuous but expect uneven terrain.

Overview

A compact but varied day safari east of Arusha, this tour visits Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater and the slopes of Mount Meru. Ideal for travelers short on time, it combines game drives with optional guided walks and canoeing.

Day Safari in Arusha National Park — Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater & Mount Meru Views

Jeep

Other

Wildlife

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You enter the park with Mount Meru’s flank filling the windshield: a volcanic shoulder that seems to breathe mist. The road narrows and the air cools as acacia and montane forest replace the scrub outside Arusha. Early on a full-day tour, the moment that etches itself into memory is often a lake: Momela’s glassy surfaces flip color with the sky and dare you to look away.

Adventure Photos

Day Safari in Arusha National Park — Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater & Mount Meru Views photo 1

Adventure Tips

Start early for wildlife

Morning light brings out birds and active grazers; aim to arrive or be picked up before 7:30 AM.

Layer up

Temperatures drop near Mount Meru and in crater shadows—bring a light fleece or windbreaker.

Bring binoculars

Wildlife sightings can be close but obscured by brush; 8–10x binoculars improve views and photography.

Respect ranger instructions

Guided walks require an armed ranger—stay with the group and follow directions for safety and conservation.

Local Insights

Wildlife

African buffalo
Blue monkeys

History

Ngurdoto Crater is an ancient volcanic caldera formed millions of years ago; the park’s boundaries and infrastructure were established to protect both montane forest and lowland wetlands.

Conservation

The park is compact and popular, so stick to designated roads and walking areas; local operators support community conservation programs and rely on sustainable visitor practices.