DAY TRIP - ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK
Arusha National Park
Overview
A day trip to Arusha National Park offers a compact yet rewarding experience of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Located just a short drive from Arusha town, the park is known for its breathtaking scenery, which ranges from lush montane forests to the tranquil Momela Lakes and the dramatic Ngurdoto Crater.
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During the day, you'll embark on a game drive to spot a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species around the lakes. A visit to the Ngurdoto Crater offers panoramic views, while a walking safari through the montane forest allows for an intimate exploration of the park’s rich ecosystem. With the possibility of seeing colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and other wildlife up close, this trip is perfect for nature lovers seeking both adventure and serenity.
Itinerary:
Morning:
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Departure from Arusha
Start your day early, departing from Arusha town or nearby accommodation. Arrange transportation, either through a tour operator or by hiring a private vehicle, for a smooth journey to the park.
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Drive to Arusha National Park
The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of rural Tanzania. As you approach the park, the landscapes shift from plains to lush greenery, setting the stage for a day of exploration.
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Mid-Morning:
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Arrival at Arusha National Park
Upon reaching the park entrance, register and pay the entrance fees. Then, begin your adventure with a game drive in the Momela Lakes area, renowned for its beautiful lakes and diverse birdlife. Keep an eye out for flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as large mammals like giraffes and zebras near the lakeshores.
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Late Morning to Early Afternoon:
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Visit to Ngurdoto Crater
Continue to the Ngurdoto Crater viewpoint, where you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the extinct volcanic crater. Your guide will share information about the area's unique geology, as well as the animals that inhabit the crater floor.
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Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the park. Many tour operators provide packed meals, but confirm this in advance, or bring your own food and drinks. Relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
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Afternoon:
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Walking Safari in the Montane Forest
After lunch, embark on a guided walking safari through the lush montane forest, home to a variety of wildlife. With your guide leading the way, look out for colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and other animals as you explore the dense vegetation and learn about the park’s ecosystem.
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Optional Activities
If time allows, consider visiting additional attractions like the Tululusia Waterfall or the Meru Crater for more stunning views and the chance to encounter different wildlife species.
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Late Afternoon:
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Return to Arusha
In the late afternoon, begin your journey back to Arusha, reflecting on the day's sights and experiences.
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Evening:
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Arrival in Arusha
Arrive back in Arusha in the early evening, just in time for dinner and relaxation after a day filled with wildlife, nature, and adventure.
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Included:
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Park fees (For non-residents)
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All activities (Unless labelled as optional)
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A professional driver/guide
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All transportation (Unless labelled as optional)
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All Taxes/VAT
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Roundtrip airport transfer
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Binoculars
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Excluded:
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International flights (from/to home)
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Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
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Tips (tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
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Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
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Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
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Alcohol drinks
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Payment Terms​
Deposit Payment
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Deposit is 20% of the total booking amount.
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Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
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We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
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Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
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Balance Payment
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Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
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Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
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Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
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Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
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Cancellation Policy​
8 days and above departure
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No cancellation fees.
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0 to 7 days before departure
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50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
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Trek can be postponed to any new date without any extra cost at any point in time.
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The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
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Supplements
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Solo Supplement = USD 30
Charged for solo trekkers throughout the year. -
Off-season supplement = USD 90
Charged for solo trekkers looking to start a new departure in March, April, May, and November. Does not apply if you join an existing group. Does not apply if other trekkers also join your new group.