Just 35 km away from the town of Arusha is the Arusha National Park. Arusha manages to compress an amazing diversity into a small space, its environment comprises grazing plains, swamps, lakes, montane forests and volcanoes, the most three spectacular Features includes the Momella Lakes, Mount Meru and the Ngurdoto Crater all within a distance of only 35 kilometres. The most striking features is the rugged Mt. Meru, the second Highest Peak in the country.
On clear Days the magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen from almost any part of the park. The vegetation and wildlife varies with topography, which range from forest to swamp. The park is famous for it's species of wildlife, both migrant and residents. The low braying call of the silver-cheeked hornbill regularly penetrate the silence, just as the harsh rhythmic cry of the endangered black and white Columbus monkey- the only place they may be seen in the northern circuit. And this is not the only acrobat in the dense forest; there are also plenty of vervet monkeys, blue monkeys and olive baboons to be seen. Although you won't hear the ferocious roar of a lion very often, other big cats can be sited. Keep an eye open for Herds of Buffalo's (the park's most abundant species), a wondering Elephants, giraffe, Bush pig, crested porcupine, hippo, hyena, warthog, zebra, and a wide range of antelope species including Dik dik and waterbuck. The well- trained spotter's eye will be treated at almost 450 birds species. Leopard are ever- present but, as always, difficult to find. An area of adjoining land was recently incorporated into the park increasing its size to 550km2.
Tourist activities include Canoeing safari on the Momela lakes, riding safaris on specialized car-free routes,Walking safaris, Mountain Cycling, Horse riding and walks around the rim of the Ngurdoto Crater, and three or four day climb of Mount Meru- good acclimatization for Kilimanjaro.
Getting there:
A short drive from Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport.
