Arusha National Park Arusha National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the shadow of Mount Meru, Tanzania's secondhighest peak, and located just a short drive from the bustling city of Arusha. Despite its compact size, the park boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes, ranging from montane forests and rolling savannah to volcanic craters and alpine moorlands.
Established in 1960, Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania's oldest national parks. Originally known as Ngurdoto Crater National Park, it was renamed Arusha National Park in 1967 to reflect its broader range of attractions. The park has a rich cultural heritage, with evidence of early human settlements dating back over two million years, and is home to the indigenous Maasai and Meru people
Wildlife: Despite its modest size, Arusha National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. Visitors can spot iconic African species such as giraffe, elephant, buffalo, zebra, and various antelope species roaming the park's grasslands and acacia woodlands. The park is also renowned for its prolific birdlife, with over 400 bird species recorded, including flamingos, hornbills, and the rare African fish eagle. Additionally, Arusha National Park is one of the few places in Tanzania where visitors can see the elusive black and white colobus monkey in its natural habitat.
Ecology: Arusha National Park's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park's montane forests are home to a wealth of plant species, including ancient hardwood trees, ferns, and orchids, while its alpine meadows and moorlands harbor unique high-altitude vegetation adapted to the harsh mountain environment. The park's volcanic features, including Mount Meru and the Ngurdoto Crater, provide important habitats for wildlife and contribute to the area's scenic beauty and ecological significance.
