A visit to Arusha National Park : Ausha National Park is a must-visit destination for those planning a Tanzania safari tour. Located in northern Tanzania, it is a relatively small park but offers a diverse range of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences.
One of the main attractions of Arusha National Park is the opportunity to hike Mount Meru, which is the fifth-highest mountain in Africa. The mountain is located within the park and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb can take between three to four days and is less crowded than the more popular Kilimanjaro Hike.
For those looking for a more leisurely experience, Arusha National Park offers a game drive through its various ecosystems. The park has a unique blend of habitats, including open savannah, dense forest, and alkaline lakes. This diversity of ecosystems attracts a wide range of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, buffalo, warthogs, and baboons.
One of the highlights of a game drive in Arusha National Park is the opportunity to spot the rare and endangered black-and-white colobus monkey. These monkeys are known for their unique appearance, with a black body and white fur around their face and limbs. They are found only in a few areas of Tanzania, making Arusha National Park an ideal Tanzania safari destination for those hoping to spot them.
Another unique experience offered by Arusha National Park is canoeing on Momella Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of Mount Meru. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and kingfishers. Canoeing on the lake provides a peaceful and serene experience, and a chance to observe the birdlife up close.
For those interested in cultural experiences, Arusha National Park offers a visit to the local Maasai community. The Maasai are a semi-nomadic tribe that has lived in East Africa for centuries. A visit to the community provides an opportunity to learn about their traditions, culture, and way of life. Visitors can watch traditional Maasai dances, visit a local school, and even join in on a spear-throwing competition.
Arusha National Park is also a popular destination for bird watchers. With over 400 bird species recorded in the park, it is a paradise for ornithologists. Some of the notable bird species found in the park include the African fish eagle, the crown eagle, the Narina trogon, and the turaco. The best time for bird watching is during the wet season, which runs from March to May and from November to December.
Arusha National Park is conveniently located near the city of Arusha, making it an easy Tanzania safari destination to include in your itinerary. The park can be visited year-round, although the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it the perfect time for game drives and mountain climbing.
What is the history of Arusha National Park?
The history of Arusha National Park dates back to the colonial era in Tanzania. In the early 1900s, the area was used as a game reserve by German colonizers. After World War I, the British took control of Tanzania, and the area was designated as a forest reserve in 1921.
Over time, the reserve’s status changed, and it was expanded to include more land and wildlife. In 1960, it was officially designated as a national park, making it one of the first national parks in Tanzania. Since then, the park has undergone various developments to improve its infrastructure and to provide visitors with a better experience.
The park has faced some challenges in the past, including encroachment by local communities and illegal poaching. However, the Tanzanian government has taken steps to address these issues, including establishing partnerships with local communities to promote conservation and implementing stricter laws to protect wildlife.
Today, Arusha National Park is recognized as a valuable conservation area, providing a sanctuary for a wide range of wildlife and plant species. It is also an important source of revenue for the Tanzanian government and supports the local economy through tourism and job creation.
Weather condition in Arusha region
The region experiences a tropical climate, with two distinct rainy seasons and two dry seasons.
The long rainy season typically occurs from March to May, while the short rainy season is from November to December. During these periods, the weather can be quite wet and humid, with frequent rain showers and thunderstorms. The temperatures during this time of year are usually cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), A visit to Arusha National Park
The dry season occurs from June to October and from January to February. During these periods, the weather is generally drier and less humid, with sunny and warm days. Temperatures during the dry season can range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it a popular time for visitors to explore Arusha National Park.
In conclusion, Arusha National Park is a unique Tanzania safari destination that offers a diverse range of experiences. From hiking Mount Meru to canoeing on Momella Lake, visitors are sure to have a memorable time in this stunning park. With its proximity to the city of Arusha, it is a convenient destination to add to your Tanzania safari tour itinerary. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or adventure, Arusha National Park has something for everyone.
