Arusha National Park has long been one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets – and now the world is catching on. Recently featured on CNN Travel’s list for 2026, this compact yet incredibly diverse park offers an experience unlike anywhere else in East Africa.
From lush equatorial montane forest and volcanic craters to open grasslands and shimmering lakes, Arusha National Park is a place where landscapes change with every step – and where adventure meets tranquillity.
Stay in the Heart of the Park: Camp Itikoni
At Camp Itikoni, African Environments offers a private eco-lux tented experience set deep within the park itself. Designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, the camp provides comfort, exclusivity, and a true sense of immersion in nature – with wildlife often passing quietly through camp.
Experiences Beyond the Game Drive
While Arusha National Park is home to giraffe, buffalo, zebra, colobus monkeys, and prolific birdlife, what truly sets it apart is the variety of ways you can explore.
Mount Meru Hiking (3 Days)
The second-highest mountain in Tanzania, Mount Meru offers a challenging and rewarding trek. Starting directly from Camp Itikoni, hikers pass through forest alive with wildlife, ascend through moorland, and summit at sunrise for breathtaking views across to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Forest Walks & Crater Hikes
Guided walking safaris allow you to slow down and experience the park on foot – tracking wildlife signs, discovering unique flora, and listening to the rhythms of the forest. Crater and ash cone hikes reveal Mount Meru’s dramatic volcanic past and make excellent acclimatisation walks.
Biking Safaris
For those seeking something different, biking safaris provide an active and intimate way to traverse the park’s quieter trails, combining adventure with wildlife encounters.
Day & Night Game Drives
Explore the Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and open plains by day, then return after dark on a rare night game drive to spot nocturnal species.
Private Sundowners
End the day with a short walk to a scenic viewpoint, enjoying drinks as the sun sets behind Mount Meru, with Kilimanjaro glowing in the distance.
Why Visit Now?
With global recognition from CNN Travel and still relatively uncrowded, Arusha National Park is the perfect destination for travellers seeking authenticity, variety, and connection to nature.
Whether you’re preparing for Kilimanjaro, starting your safari journey, or simply looking to experience Tanzania at a slower pace, Arusha National Park – and Itikoni Camp – offer something truly special.
