Arusha National Park Day Tour: Wildlife, Momela Lakes & Crater

Summary

Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Picnic in Arusha National Park

You’ll get up close to wildlife at your own pace, see famous film locations, and enjoy a relaxed picnic surrounded by nature—all just outside Arusha town.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Arusha feels cool and a bit earthy as we pile into the van—our guide, Joseph, greets us with a grin and hands out bottles of water. It’s just after 9am when we leave the city behind. The drive doesn’t take long; soon, the road gets quieter and the green hills of Arusha National Park start to show up through the windows. Joseph points out that this is where “Hatari” was filmed—he laughs and says locals still talk about John Wayne’s hat blowing off during a windy scene near the crater.

Inside the park, it’s all about slowing down. We roll past tall trees where black-and-white colobus monkeys leap overhead—sometimes you’ll catch their tails hanging low if you look up at just the right moment. Around the Momela Lakes, flamingos cluster in patches of pink while giraffes nibble on acacia leaves nearby. There’s a spot by Ngurdoto Crater where we stop for photos; buffaloes graze below and you can hear warthogs snuffling around if you listen closely. Lunch is simple but tasty—a picnic spread under shady trees with views stretching out over the crater rim. By afternoon, zebras wander close to our van and baboons cross the path like they own it. We take our time heading back, rolling into Arusha before sunset, tired but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arusha National Park Safari

• Hotel pickup and transfer to Arusha National Park
• Visit Ngurdo Crater and wildlife viewing
• Lunch at picnic spot
• Afternoon wildlife observation
• Return to hotel in Arusha

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly. Infants sit on an adult’s lap or use specialized seats provided on request.

Will I see animals even if I visit outside peak season?

Wildlife like giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and baboons are seen year-round in Arusha National Park.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, vehicles are wheelchair accessible and staff can assist as needed throughout the day.

What’s included

Your private ride from your hotel in Arusha is included—no crowded buses here. Bottled water is handed out at pickup and there’s a picnic lunch served inside the park so you don’t have to worry about food or drinks along the way.