Arusha National Park, often overlooked, is in fact a treasure, a rich tapestry of habitats, teeming with animals and birds. From the lush swamps of the Ngurdoto Crater to the tranquil beauty of the Momella Lakes and the rocky alpine heights of Mt Meru.
The terrain of the park is as varied as it is interesting. Zebras graze on the park's red grasslands, and leopards lurk next to waterfalls in the shadowy forest, more than 400 species of birds, both migrant and residents can be found in Arusha National park alongside rare primates such as the black-and-white colobus monkey.
The rewarding climb up Mt Meru passes through the forest of dripping Spanish moss and rises to open health, spiked with giant Lobelia plants. Delicate Kilpspringer, antelope watch the progress of the hikers from the top of huge boulders, and everlasting flowers cling to the alpine desert underfoot. Once astride the craggy summit, the reward is the sight of Mt Meru, Kilimanjaro, breathtaking in the sunrise.
The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season from July to November to March. The best months to climb Mt Meru are June to February, with the best view of Mt Kilimanjaro seen from December to February. The park lies just 25 km east of Arusha and is a rewarding day trip from Arusha or Moshi
Tanzania
Uganda
Kenya
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