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15 best day trips around Arusha Tanzania
Arusha, known as the gateway to some of East Africa’s most iconic national parks and natural wonders, offers a wide array of day trip options for travelers. Whether you’re interested in wildlife safaris, hiking, or cultural experiences, the 15 best day trips around Arusha Tanzania provide something for everyone. These trips showcase Tanzania’s beauty, from its diverse wildlife to stunning landscapes, and allow you to make the most of your time in the region.
1. Makuyuni game Park Day Trip:
Located just a few hours away, the Makuyuni game Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the Arusha. A day trip from Arusha will allow you to witness the incredible wildlife diversity, from the “Big Mammals” to Antelopes, giraffes, and wildebeests.
- Highlights: Game drives, Big mammal sightings, endless savannah plains.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but during June to October for the best experience.
2. Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip:
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ngorongoro Crater is a geological wonder and a haven for wildlife. It’s home to one of the highest concentrations of game in Africa, making it a must-see day trip from Arusha.
- Highlights: Wildlife viewing (lions, elephants, zebras), stunning crater views.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially during the dry season (June to October).
3. Tarangire National Park Day Trip:
Known for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire is a stunning national park just a couple of hours from Arusha. A perfect day trip for those seeking a quieter, less-crowded safari experience.
- Highlights: Elephant herds, baobab trees, bird watching.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October for the best wildlife viewing.
4. Lake Manyara National Park Day Trip:
A scenic gem, Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse birdlife. The park’s unique combination of landscapes—from the lake itself to the forested escarpment—makes it an unforgettable day trip from Arusha.
- Highlights: Tree-climbing lions, flamingo colonies, bird watching.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April for bird watching, June to October for wildlife.
5. Mount Meru Day Hike:
For adventure enthusiasts, a day hike to the summit of Mount Meru offers breathtaking views of Arusha and the surrounding areas. Though it’s a challenging hike, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy nature and challenge themselves.
- Highlights: Scenic views, diverse ecosystems, wildlife (monkeys, buffaloes).
- Best Time to Visit: June to February.
6. Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour:
Located just outside Arusha, a visit to Materuni Waterfalls offers a refreshing break from the city. You can also experience a traditional coffee tour, learning about the coffee-making process from local Chaga farmers.
- Highlights: Materuni Waterfalls, coffee making, cultural immersion.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
7. Lake Natron Day Trip:
For those seeking a more remote adventure, Lake Natron is a salt lake known for its eerie beauty and flamingo populations. The area is perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
- Highlights: Flamingos, scenic views of Mount Oldoinyo Lengai, alkaline lake.
- Best Time to Visit: July to October, when flamingos are present.
8. Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano Day Trip:
For an adventurous day trip, consider hiking to the summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s only active volcano. It’s a physically demanding hike, but the panoramic views and volcanic landscapes make it worth the effort.
- Highlights: Volcano views, hiking, unique landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October.
9. Lake Eyasi Day Trip:
For a more cultural experience, a day trip to Lake Eyasi offers a chance to interact with the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, two of Tanzania’s most indigenous groups. Visitors can learn about their way of life, including hunting techniques and traditional crafts.
- Highlights: Cultural immersion, Hadzabe tribe hunting experience, scenic lake views.
- Best Time to Visit: June to November.
10. Arusha National Park Day Trip:
A hidden gem, Arusha National Park is located just outside the city and offers a range of activities, including game drives, canoeing, and hiking. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including rainforests and volcanic craters. This day trip to Arusha national park is on the 15 best day trips around Arusha Tanzania because in here you can even do a horse riding.
- Highlights: Wildlife (giraffes, buffaloes, monkeys), Mount Meru views, canoeing.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
11. Mto Wa Mbu Cultural Village Tour:
Experience the vibrant culture of Tanzania’s rural communities with a visit to Mto Wa Mbu. The area is home to a wide variety of tribes, and you’ll get a chance to visit local farms, markets, and learn about traditional crafts.
- Highlights: Cultural immersion, local markets, Maasai village.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
12. Kilimanjaro Day Trip:
While summiting Mount Kilimanjaro takes days or weeks, a day trip to explore its base is still a memorable experience. Hike through lush forests, enjoy the views of the iconic peak, and learn about the mountain’s ecosystems. in this 15 best day trips around Arusha Tanzania a day hike to kilimanjaro can give unforgettable day trip experience.
- Highlights: Base hikes, forest treks, breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
13. Kikuletwa Hotspring Day Trip:
The Kikuletwa Hot Springs (also known as Chemka or Rundugai Hot Springs) is one of the most beautiful and refreshing places in Tanzania. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear, turquoise, warm water. It’s a small oasis in the middle of absolutely nowhere—literally! Simply an amazing experience that’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in Tanzania. From Arusha, the trip takes about 2 hours
- Highlights: Natural warm swimming pool
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout a year.
14. Ngurdoto Crater Day Trip:
Often overshadowed by the Ngorongoro Crater, Ngurdoto is a smaller but equally beautiful crater, located within Arusha National Park. It offers stunning scenery and a chance to spot wildlife without the crowds.
- Highlights: Wildlife viewing, crater views, scenic walks.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
15. Longido Mountain Day Hike:
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, hike up Longido Mountain. Located near the border with Kenya, this mountain offers panoramic views and a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty.
- Highlights: Scenic views, hiking, local wildlife.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October.
Conclusion:
Arusha’s location at the heart of Tanzania makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the country’s most beautiful and diverse attractions. Whether you’re looking for a wildlife safari, a cultural experience, or an adventurous hike, these 15 best day trips around Arusha Tanzania offer unforgettable experiences that cater to all interests and budgets. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the wonders of Tanzania with one of these fantastic day trips.