Lake Natron

Lake Natron

Lake Natron

Lake Natron is a salt or soda lake situated in the Gregory Rift, which is the eastern branch of the East African Rift. It is located in northern Tanzania and lies at the foot of the Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano. The lake, which is less than three meters deep, varies in width depending on its water level and spans 57 kilometers in length and 22 kilometers in width. The area experiences irregular seasonal rainfall, with the majority occurring between December and May. The lake’s temperatures are often above 40°C.

As the freshwater evaporates in Lake Natron, the remaining water contains high concentrations of salt minerals such as sodium and trona. The lake’s alkalinity can reach a pH level of over 12, creating an environment that is ideal for the life of birds. Special bacteria and blue algae thrive in this environment, including some cyanobacteria that, like plants, produce their food through photosynthesis. The deep red and orange colors in the lake’s waters are due to the red pigment in those cyanobacteria. The salt-loving microorganisms present their color the alkali salt crust on the lake’s surface red or pink.

Info about Lake Natron

Getting there

The Park can be accessed by road.

Travel Time

  •     Arusha to Lake Natron: 6 hours
  •     Tarangire to Lake Natron: 4 hours
  •     Lake Manyara/Mto Ambu to Lake Natron: 3 hours
  •     Karatu to Lake Natron: 4 hours
  •     Northern Serengeti to Lake Natron: 4-5 hours

When is the best time to visit Lake Natron?

It can be quite challenging to predict when the flamingos will be present in Lake Natron. The timing depends on the amount of rainfall the area receives, which has been quite variable in recent years. It is advisable to avoid travelling to Lake Natron during the wet seasons as the roads are often muddy and difficult to navigate. The best time to visit the lake by car is between July and October when the roads are drier and more accessible.

Lake Natron is the perfect breeding place for Flamingos

Flamingos find a safe breeding ground at Lake Natron since most other animals find its caustic environment, high lake temperature (up to 60°C), and inhospitable salinity. It, therefore, provides a good barrier against predators trying to reach nests on seasonal evaporation islands. Every year, more than two million flamingos come here to lay their eggs and chicks hatch between September and April. Cyanobacteria are increasing with the salinity of the water, and the lake can carry more nests. Larger flamingos also breed in the Wadden Sea.

Other animals in Lake Natron

Some fish species (such as tilapia) can survive in the slightly less salty water near the shore. Lake Natron is also home to some endemic algae, invertebrates and other birds. Tens of thousands of other birds can be spotted near the lake, making Lake Natron a prime destination for bird lovers in Africa.

Nearby National parks

Lake Natron is also well connected to other National parks, such as Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the south and the Northern Serengeti National Park in the west. Usually, Lake Natron is visited after Lake Manyara National Park.

Excursions and activities in Lake Natron

  • Visit an authentic Maasai village
  • A walk to Lake Natron itself
  • Beautiful view of the mountain Ol Doinyo Lengai
  • Climb Ol Doinyo Lengai (Not for everybody and at your own risk!)
  • Walk to the waterfall (Not for everybody and at your own risk!)
  • Birdwatching (if you are lucky, you can see thousands of flamingoes)
  • Photography: the view of the large escarpment landscape + volcano

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park

Home to the world's last remaining large mammal migration

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is Africa’s most famous park due to the largest concentration of game on the continent and the migration of millions of wildebeest. Maasai people called this park ‘Siringet‘, meaning endless plains. The Serengeti speaks for itself and with a good reason not only the migration of over 1 million wildebeest through its plains and woodlands but also unique landscapes and other spectacular wildlife.

The Serengeti is home to the world’s largest populations of Wildebeest, Zebra, Cape Eland, Lion, Cheetah, Hyena, and Gazelles. The scenic beauty of the sky with cool nights and warm days makes your visit to this remaining home for the great migration of large mammals incredible!

Info About Serengeti National Park

  • Area: 14,763 km² /5,700 sq. Mi
  • Established: 1951
  • Location: Mara Region, Tanzania
  • Distance & Drive Time: Arusha to Central Serengeti 6-7 hours 350km/217mi

Climate

The climate of the Serengeti National Park is subtropical, with a rain season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.

Getting there

The park can be accessed by road and air.

Road. Accessed from all towns and cities to the present entry or exit points/gates namely Naabi Hill, Seronera, Ndutu, Kusini, Kirawira, Handajega, Ikoma, Tabora ‘B’, Lamai, Lobo, Ndabaka, Machochwe and Kleins.

Air. There are all-weather airstrips in the center of the park (Seronera), in the South (Kusini), in the East (Lobo), in the West (Kirawira), and in the North (Kogatende & Lamai). There are scheduled and private charters from Arusha, Mwanza, Kilimanjaro, Musoma, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

Attractions

Serengeti National Park, is a world-renown, World Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site that has many more attractions than any other national park in Africa. The Great Migration, The Big Five, Unique Bird Collections, Endangered Species, Highest concentration of Carnivores and Herbivores, and Scenic and Spectacular Landscapes are some of the attractions one will encounter!

The Great Migration

The great wildebeest migration of over a 1.3million is accompanied by large numbers of zebra, and smaller numbers of Grant’s & Thomson’s gazelle, eland and impala with an annual pattern-seeking fresh grazing and water. Having a chance of encountering these phenomena gives you a lifetime experience with nature.

Highest Concentration of Carnivores

Serengeti has the highest concentration of carnivores, especially all the big African cats such as Lions, Leopards, Cheetah and Spotted Hyena! Seeing these powerful predators hunting and sometimes fighting for the territory all make your day!

Largest Concentration of Herbivores

Serengeti has more than 28 species of herbivores including buffalos, wildebeest, zebras, elands, hippos and waterbucks. During game viewing spotting herbivores coloring the endless plains while feeding gives you a thrilling experience!

Endangered Species

Serengeti is one of the last remaining sanctuaries for critically endangered Black rhino (Diceros bicornis michaeli) as well as an endangered African hunting dog!

Diverse Birdlife

With more than 530 species recorded quarter being those migrating from other parts of the world, the park forms an ecological important bird area and an ideal place for bird lovers! Some of the species commonly seen are European and Abdim’s storks, Eurasian Roller, Barn Swallows, Fish & Martial Eagles etc.

Cultural & Historical Sites

Serengeti is home to many cultures from the famous tribes of Maasai, Sukuma, Kurya, and Ikoma. Indigenous Maasai and Ikoma use to live in parts of the park before they were resettled outside the park. The present signs which are still visible at famous Maasai Rock Painting, Gong rock, and Ikoma ruins mark a special combination of game viewing and human history.

Scenic and Spectacular Landscapes

The vast scenic and unspoiled landscapes among others made this area recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its vast plains, rolling hills, and the island of Kopjes increases the beauty of the park

Plants and Insects

The park is rich in plant life as well as insects. During the rainy seasons the park bust in wildflowers and beautiful butterflies providing an exceptional experience for botanists and entomologists

Activities

  • Game Viewing by Vehicles
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Professional Filming &Photographing.
  • Walking Safaris

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park

The Paradise of Elephants

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is known for its majestic Baobab trees. These can grow to an enormous size and have a unique shape.

The park is impressively splendid for its famous concentration of wild animals especially the elephants You can see herds of up to 300 elephants around the Tarangire River, and it is also one of the finest birding destinations in East Africa.

The name of the park originates from the Tarangire River which crosses the park and covers an area of 2850 km 2.

Info About Tarangire National Park

  • Area: 2,850 km2 /1,100 sq. Mi
  • Established: 1960
  • Distance: 106km/65mi from Arusha
  • Location: Arusha, Tanzania

Climate

Tarangire has a bimodal rainfall with short rains starting from November to December, long rains from March to May, and a dry season from June to October and January to February.

The park is located at an altitude between 900m and 1250meters with annual average rainfall ranging from 650 to 700mm.

Getting there

The Park can be accessed by road or air

Attractions

The Park has remarkable attractions with large groups of Elephants, the spectacular natural beauty of the savanna landscape, and magnificent majestic Baobabs. Over 550 different bird species have been recorded in the park, of which several are threatened or endemic.

Wildlife

Tarangire is noted as a safari destination for its large concentration of wildlife population. Animals like elephants, eland, giraffes, lions, buffalo, cheetah, leopards, and zebra are easily spotted when you are in a four-wheel drive.

Birds

Enjoy spotting a large batch of colorful and exclusive bird species. Over 500 different species are housed in swamps that are spread all over Tarangire. This makes an area an amazing destination for bird lovers. One wouldn’t miss seeing breeding species of birds found in Tarangire more than anywhere else on the planet.

Baobab Trees

They can live up to 300 years and can grow trunks reaching more than 100feet in circumference. They have spent quite some time on the planet and seen a lot of history. So, if only they could talk, they would surely be interesting storytellers!

Tarangire River

The Tarangire River is the only source of water for thousands of animals in the dry season thus offering a fantastic game driving experience.

Termite Mounds

The mounds built of mud from underground and held together by termite saliva are always seen and they provide observation points for animals. It’s also home to dwarf mangooses when abandoned

Activities

Tarangire National Park has different activities that can be done once you have arrived at the Park. These activities include Day Game drive, Night Game Drive, Walking Safari, Filming and Photographing, Bush-meal, Hot air balloon safari, and Birdwatching.

Walking Safari

This gives you a more learning experience about animals within the bushland and a better way of spotting animals within the bushland and a better way of spotting animals at a close range. It is mostly done in the morning and evening and brings about a different scope and sense of adventure. It also conveys a different dimension to the whole safari experience

Night game drives

Going with a blanket and sitting in an open vehicle under an African sky with the pretty stars is a moment to remember. The bush is completely a different world at night.

Balloon safari

Balloon air flight in Tarangire will give you a different experience. Gliding across the Tarangire river on your tour as the sunrise stains the plains pink, the golden grassland dotted with giant baobab trees, the silver ribbons of the rivers and animals congregate in their hundreds in the early morning; all these make you be part of the natural world.

Bird watching

Tarangire is a great bird-watching site with more than 500 species recorded. Bird lovers should keep an eye open for flocks of dazzlingly colorful yellow–collared lovebirds and the somewhat drabber Rufous-tailed weaver and Ashy starling

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the leader of Tanzania’s travel industry, it’s situated in northern piece of Tanzania; lying south-east of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and north of Lake Manyara National Park. Its size is 8,300 sq km. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is viewed as a characteristic miracle of the world “the eighth Wonder of the World” and is a fine mix of scenes, individuals and wildlife. It is one of Africa’s principle archeological destinations and has been pronounced a World Heritage Site. The Crater has accomplished world fame, drawing in a consistently expanding number of guests every year. You are probably not going to escape different vehicles here, yet you are guaranteed incredible wildlife seeing in a truly marvelous condition.

There is no place else in Africa very like Ngorongoro! The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s biggest unblemished volcanic caldera. Framing a fantastic bowl of around 265 square kilometers, with sides up to 600 meters down; it is home to roughly 30,000 animals at any one time. The Crater edge is more than 2,200 meters high and encounters its very own atmosphere. From this high vantage direct it is conceivable toward make out the little states of animals advancing around the crater floor far beneath. Swathes of cloud stay nearby the rough edge most days of the year and it’s one of only a handful couple of spots in Tanzania where it can get nippy during the evening. The crater floor comprises of various different natural surroundings that incorporate field, marshes, timberlands and Lake Makat (Maasai for ‘salt’) – a focal soft drink lake filled by the Munge River. All these different situations pull in wildlife to drink, flounder, brush, stow away or climb. In spite of the fact that animals are allowed to move all through this contained condition, the rich volcanic soil, lavish backwoods and spring source lakes on the crater floor (joined with fairly soak crater sides) will in general slope both nibblers and predators to stay consistently.

Info About Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Getting There

By Road

Ngorongoro Crater is approximately 185 km from Arusha by road. The trip usually takes four hours.

By Air

Daily flights from Arusha to Lake Manyara Airstrip are offered. From there, it’s about one-and-a-half hours to the Ngorongoro Crater.

Best Time to visit Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater can be visited at any time of the year. However, if you want to have an exceptional game-viewing experience, it is best to visit during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, you can enjoy clear skies, which provide excellent visibility of the wildlife and other big game.

Why should I visit Ngorongoro Crater?

  • It is the world’s largest caldera that houses the BIG FIVE and other wildlife.
  • Ngorongoro Crater Safari is among the best Safari destinations in the African continent that hosts the annual Migration.
  • Dubbed as Garden of Eden, Ngorongoro Crater showcases stunning landscapes with 25,000 animals, including ungulates and other large 

Masai Tribe

While on your safari, it is possible to visit the Maasai tribe, which is allowed to let their livestock graze in the area. If you are interested in learning more about the lifestyle and rituals of this fascinating tribe, we highly recommend booking a Maasai Tour.

Information and Facts

Ngorongoro Crater is an area of exceptional natural beauty that is highly recommended to be visited by individuals seeking to explore the incredible wildlife of Africa. The region is home to the highest concentration of wildlife on the continent, including lions, elephants, zebras, black rhinos, and a plethora of other species. The panoramic views from the crater rim over the crater floor are truly awe-inspiring and offer visitors a unique perspective on the natural world. It is, therefore, not surprising that Ngorongoro Crater is considered one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders and a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the unparalleled beauty of the African continent.

Most common animals

  • Rhinos
  • Hippos
  • Lions
  • Grant Gazelles
  • Thomson Gazelles
  • Zebras
  • Wildebeests
  • Warthogs
  • Highland Antelopes
  • Elephants
  • Jackals
  • Ostriches

Facts about Ngorongoro

  • Ngorongoro crater floor, with its unique habitat and wildlife
  • Ngorongoro Highlands
  • Olmoti Crater and Empakaai Crater
  • Tropical rainforest
  • Olduvai George, the earliest place of human existence on earth
  • Museum Laetoli Footprint has the oldest known footprints of early humans

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

A Home of Tree Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara National Park

The lush green vegetation consists of tall trees of the ground water forest, the tree-climbing lions, the soda lake inhabited by thousands of pink-hued flamingos, large water birds, and the troops of baboons and blue monkeys, and the rift valley escarpment make your safari to this area unforgettable.

The park derives its name from a plant called Euphorbia tirucalli, known as Emanyara in the Maasai language, and covers an area of 648.7 km2.

Info About Lake Manyara National Park

  • Area: 325 km² /125 sq. Mi of which 200 km² /77 sq. Mi is Lake.
  • Established: 1960
  • Location: Manyara & Arusha Regions, Tanzania
  • Distance & Drive time: 126 kilometers from Arusha City

Climate

The Park experiences a bi-modal rainfall season with short rains starting from November to December and long rains from February to May and the dry season is from late June to October.

It is located at an altitude between 850 and 2000 meters with annual average rainfall ranging from 650 to 760m

Getting there

The Park can be accessed by road or air

Best Time to Visit.

The best time to see large animals in Lake Manyara is during the dry season, from July to October. If you are a bird lover you can better visit the park from November till June. During this season you can spot thousands of flamingos as well as pelicans, African Fish Eagle, hornbill, Hamerkop, Black heron, little bee-eater, and much more.

Park Attractions

The Park has remarkable attractions most notably the tree-climbing lions, Marang’ forest, hot spring, ground water forest, diversity of bird species, and the rift valley. Plan your trip by visiting Lake Manyara National Park where you will get an exceptional experience that quenches your travel thirst.

Most Wild Animals

Elephant, buffalo, hippo, lion, leopard, occasional cheetah, and giraffe. Lions here have opted to rest up during the heat of midday in trees, giving Manyara lions somehow different behavior.

Birds

The park offers a high diversity of bird species over 390 birds species both migrants and residents including 50 birds of prey, raucous forest hornbills, pink-hued flamingos, and flotillas of pelicans.

Hot springs

Its water is heated by volcanic activity to a temperature of 76.5 0C. The water is important to source of food for lesser flamingos and the mineral content of the water is associated with curative values.

Ground Water forest

These dense evergreen harbors resident bushbucks, primates, and a multitude of bird species.

The varied habitats

The varied diversity of habitats including the rift valley escarpment, open grassland, woodland and the lake makes the area an ideal place to visit.

Marang’ Forest

It lies above the escarpment and harbors elephants, buffaloes, duikers, baboons, blue monkeys, leopards and many forest dwellings bird’s species.

Activities

  • Game Drive
  • Night Game drive
  • Walking safari
  • Canoeing
  • Bird Watching
  • Canopy Tree Walk
  • Filming and Photographing

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

The Roof of Africa

Kilimanjaro National Park

The highest mountain in Africa, snow-capped, and the world’s highest free-standing volcano. It comprises of two dormant volcanoes (Kibo 5,895m/19,340ft a.m.s.l and Mawenzi 5,149m/16,893ft a.m.s.l) and one extinct volcano (Shira 3,962m/12,998ft a.m.s.l) respectively. The origin of the word is not well known but it is said to be a combination of the Swahili word Kilima meaning “Mountain” and the KiChagga word Njaro, loosely translated as “Whiteness” giving the name “White Mountain”.

Its size is 1,712Km2 and was declared a National Park in 1973, officially opened for tourism in 1977, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, and a Natural Wonder of Africa in 2013. Climbing to the top which is far up into the sky it’s a lifetime experience that no one can forget.

Info About Kilimanjaro National Park

  • Area: 1,688 km² /652 sq. Mi
  • Established: 1973
  • Location: Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
  • Distance & Drive Time: Kilimanjaro International Airport – about 41km/25mi

Climate

There are two rainy seasons in a year. The wet season is from March to May during which it rains around the mountain base and snow accumulates on its peak.

The dry season is from late June through September during which the nights are cool and the days completely clear.

The park is located at an altitude between 1700 m to 5895 meters with annual average rainfall ranging from 828 mm in the alpine desert to 2500 mm in the Montane forest.

Getting there

The park can be accessed by road or flight via Kilimanjaro International Airport – about 45km to the west. The Park Headquarters and one of the ascending gates are at Marangu, about 41Km from Moshi town and 86km from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The other seven gates of Rongai, Machame, Londorosi, Lemosho, Kilema, Mweka, and Umbwe are located around the mountain base and can be reached by road.

Attractions

The Park is endowed with a diverse variety of attractions ranging from terrestrial wilderness to permanent glaciers on the mountain peaks.

Three peaks

Kibo Peak

The highest peak (5,895m) on Mount Kilimanjaro, is covered by snow throughout the year despite being close to the equator. Conquering this peak is an adventure of a lifetime.

Mawenzi Peak

Is the second highest peak which forms Mount Kilimanjaro 5,149m. It is rugged and maintains the features of glaciation

Shira peak

With an altitude of 3,962m, is the oldest peak that collapsed and forms a Shira plateau with outstanding scenic beauty on the mountain with several kinds of migratory large mammals such as buffaloes, elephants, and especially elands.

Zonation of Vegetation

Five eco-climatic zones take you to the equivalent of a trip from the equator to the arctic in a brief tour. As one climbs Kilimanjaro, vegetation and weather change in response to the changing elevation from the montane forest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and the summit zone (arctic). The mountain peak is covered by snow all year-round

Montane Forest

A wide band of exceptionally beautiful montane forest encircles the whole of Kilimanjaro from about 1800 –2800m. The forest zone is worth a visit even if you are not climbing to the peaks. Marangu nature trails in particular take you through this forest belt which supports several plant species, including endemic plants like Impatiens Kilimanjari.

Lauwo Waterfall

Located along Marangu route 2.8Kms provides a spectacular experience while enjoying walking inside the thick montane forest.

Maundi Crater

Located just 15 minutes’ walk past Mandara huts on the Marangu route the crater provides a panoramic view of Lakes Chala, Jipe and Nyumba ya Mungu, all of which derive their waters from the Majestic Kilimanjaro.

Kifinika Cultural Site

This is a site along the Marangu route that is sacred by the local Chagga people. Historically, the site was used for cultural rituals.

Birds and Animals

The park harbors a total number of 140 species of mammals; 7 primates, 25 carnivores, 25 antelopes, 24 species of bat, and 179 bird species

Activities

Mountain Climbing to the Summit

Climbing to the Kibo peak takes 5 to 8 days depending on the route. The more days, the higher the possibility to conquer the summit. Six mountain trails can take a climber to the highest point in Africa, each route offering different attractions and challenges.

Mountain Cycling

Tourists have a chance to cycle inside the park. There are two routes, one for summit-bound visitors (Kilema route) and the second one for non-summit visitors (Shira plateau). These routes are equipped with picnic sites and resting points.

Mawenzi Technical Climbing

Mawenzi is the second-highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro. Technical climbers can hike the present seven sub-peaks enjoying the view of cliffs, the complex gullies, and rock faces.

Paragliding

Tourists can fly from the top of Mount Kilimanjaro and tourists may use parachutes or wingsuits while undertaking this activity

Non-Summit Bound Climbers

Activities for non-summit bound climbers include:

  • Visit the waterfalls (Lauwo)
  • Visiting the Shira Plateau
  • Watching wildlife including high altitude birds
  • Walking through the Mountain Forest
  • Day walk to Maundi crater in the park, cultural sites such as Kifunika

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park

'A Rewarding Hiking Destination'

Arusha National Park

This beautiful Park has often been called a “little germ” and rightly so. It is only ½ an hour by tarmac road from Arusha town, the safari center of Northern Tanzania. 

With mountains, valleys, lakes, and small plains clothed in green, it has a wonderful feeling of peace and solitude. It is dominated by Mount Meru, which at 4,566 m (14,980 ft) is the 5th highest free-standing mountain in Africa. 

This second highest mountain in Tanzania offers an unforgettable experience and serves as an acclimatization refuge before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Info About Arusha National Park

  • Area: 137 km2 /53 sq. mi
  • Established: 1960
  • Location: Arusha- Region
  • Distance: From Arusha town to Ngongongare gate, it is about 32 km/21mi

Climate

The Park can be visited throughout the year; however, the best time is between June to September and from December to early March. The short rainy period is from October to November and the heavy rain season is from March to May.

Getting there

The Park can be accessed by road or air.

By Road: From Arusha town to Ngongongare gate, it is about 32 km/21Mi.

By Air: It is about 40 km/24Mi from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Attractions

The Park is gifted with a variety of attractions ranging from wildlife inhabiting the wilderness to craters and mountain peaks.

Serengeti Ndogo

The name which means “Little Serengeti”, describes the open grassland, a place in the park where various animals in large numbers can easily be seen such as buffaloes, warthogs’ zebras, waterbucks, giraffes, etc.

Wildlife

Black and white colobus monkey

Arusha National Park is a home for these acrobatic Black and White Colobus monkeys. These species contribute to visitors’ experience during the Park visit because they can easily be spotted. Other animals include Buffalos, Warthogs, and Giraffes.

Mount Meru

The park holds the second-highest mountain in Tanzania providing a good chance of exploring mountainous habitats inhabited with different animal and plant species that are different from those found in lowlands.

Ngurdoto and Meru Craters

This pear-shaped Ngurdoto resembles just a miniature of the Ngorongoro crater and comprises five viewing points mikindu, the Rock, Buffalo, the glade, and Lei tong being the highest point. From this point, the snowy peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Momella lakes, and the lower slope with human settlement can be easily seen

Birds

(Lesser and greater flamingos in Momela Lakes)

The famous Momela lakes provide a home and important feeding ground for both Lesser and greater flamingos. It one of the important sites to visit for bird watchers.

Tululusia Hill and waterfall

Tululusia hill meaning “lookout point is a viewpoint that provides an excellent view of the lower areas of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru, and the majestic Kilimanjaro.

Tululusia Waterfall is found on a narrow-sided valley formed as a result of erosion of soft volcanic soil leaving behind a steep gorge with a height of 28m (84ft). It’s a home of nesting Red-winged Starlings and having a chance of getting your photos around this natural environment are usually spectacular!

Lake Longil and Momella lakes

Lake Longil is the only freshwater lake in the park, inhabited with Tilapia fish also there are Papyrus and Mace reed floating as Islands and changes their positions following the wind’s directions

The Momella Lakes with different mineral contents support a different type of algae growth and this gives each lake a different color

Fig Tree Arch

A striking feature of the Fig Tree Arch (Ficus thoningii) with its roots reach the ground while leaving behind an arch enough for a car to drive through.

Ngarenanyuki River (Engare Nanyokie)

This river originating from the montane forest and Meru crater contains a brackish resulting from brown/alkaline water sources from the streams which join the main river outside the park.

Activities

Arusha National Park is a Park of multi tourist activities; These activities include game drive, short walking safari, long walking safari, Canoeing, Mountain Climbing, Horse Riding, and Cycling.

Mountain hiking

This is 2 night 3-day adventure using the mountain huts Miriakamba and Saddle huts. It has to be prearranged at the Momella Gate requiring porters and an armed Ranger escort. The hike traverses several vegetation zones including beautiful montane forests. Expect to see wildlife en route including buffalo, giraffes, monkeys, baboons, antelope, and lots of birds.

Walking Safari

Arusha National Park is a great place for walking and a place where one can enjoy natural forests in comfort because of the cool climate. Hiking has to be arranged at one of the 2 Gates. A fee is payable and any walk has to be accompanied by an armed ranger.

Canoeing

Canoeing is possible by prior arrangements on Small Momella Lake, with buffalo, giraffe, bushbuck, waterbuck and hippo saw. Wading and water birds are of course common.

Horseback riding

Horseback trails have been established and can be combined with overnight stays in camps within the Park (but not the horses). By prior arrangement.

Game drive

Game drives are possible on a well-maintained network of roads and tracks. It is an experience that tourists can get in a day game drive from Arusha Town.

Bird watching

The Park has more than 450 bird species including both resident and migratory birds. At Small Momella and Long lakes, both water and non-water birds can be easily sighted.

Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi

Guest are invited to overnight in these tribal lands as well as witness how these people continue to hunt and forage for their food in the face of Tanzania’s continued development. Observing an early morning hunting display, gathering honey, and traditional dance performances are all part of the experience. Its cultural experience is not to be missed and all happens against the backdrop of beautiful lake Eyasi.

Lake Eyasi is situated at the southwestern end of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area between the Great Rift Valley Eyasi escarpment and Kidero mount, just 133km / 95mi west of Lake Manyara.  lake Eyasi covers an area of about 1,050 square km / 400 square mi.

The lake is like all the other lakes in the Rift valley a soda lake. Lake Eyasi, which has one principal spring the Sibiti River, is enclosed by walls consisting of purple lava. The main attraction of Lake Eyasi is the Hadzabe bushmen, The indigenous inhabitants, and the last community of hunters and gatherers in Africa. Lake Eyasi is their homeland for over 10,000 years. They are still holding to their traditional way of life, hunting and gathering different kinds of fruits and honey

The Hadzabe live in caves and they don’t wear any kind of clothes but rather a skin to cover their private parts. The community is endangered because most of their land has been taken away from them for commercial production and they are forced to join the civilization.

Lake Eyasi is also inhabited by another Bushman community, The Tindiga, this community is also a hunters and gatherers community, but they are tired of kind of life and want to join the civilized world. They have been living for centuries from the forest and its product, hunting animals such as monkeys. The Tindiga people don’t have permanent houses and avoid building with iron sheets because they believe they cause blindness.