Is It Possible to Do a Day Trip to a Park from Arusha?

Arusha is often called the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and for many travelers, the question arises: “Is it possible to do a day trip to a park from Arusha?” The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, Arusha’s location makes it uniquely suited for short wildlife excursions, allowing visitors to experience some of Tanzania’s most famous national parks without committing to a multi-day safari.

This guide explores everything you need to know about day trips from Arusha to nearby national parks, including the parks you can visit, distances, activities, costs, best times to travel, and tips for making the most of your one-day safari.

Why Arusha Is Perfect for Day Trips

Arusha’s central location in northern Tanzania makes it an ideal base for exploring:

• Serengeti National Park (approximately 6–7 hours by car or short domestic flight)

• Ngorongoro Conservation Area (3–4 hours by car)

• Tarangire National Park (2–3 hours by car)

• Lake Manyara National Park (2–3 hours by car)

• Arusha National Park (within 45–60 minutes from the city)

Because of these short distances, it is possible to see a variety of wildlife — from elephants and lions to giraffes and flamingos — in just one day.

Popular Parks for Day Trips from Arusha

1. Arusha National Park

• Distance: ~45 km (30 miles) from Arusha

• Travel Time: 45–60 minutes

• Why Visit on a Day Trip:

  • Close to the city, perfect for early morning or half-day trips.

  • Offers diverse ecosystems, including savannah, forest, and Mount Meru’s slopes.

  • See giraffes, buffalo, zebra, blue monkeys, and colorful birdlife.

  • Optional walking safaris and canoeing on Momella Lakes.

• Experience Level: Easy to moderate, suitable for all ages.

2. Lake Manyara National Park

• Distance: ~130 km (80 miles)

• Travel Time: 2–3 hours

• Highlights:

  • Famous for tree-climbing lions.

  • Large flocks of flamingos on the lake.

  • Elephants, giraffes, and baboons.

• Day Trip Suitability: Full-day excursion recommended; early departure ensures maximum wildlife viewing.

3. Tarangire National Park

• Distance: ~120 km (75 miles)

• Travel Time: 2–3 hours

• Highlights:

  • Large elephant herds, baobab trees, and scenic landscapes.

  • Excellent bird watching opportunities.

  • Ideal for a classic safari experience in one day.

• Day Trip Suitability: Full-day trips from Arusha are common; leave early to maximize game drive time.

4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

• Distance: ~180 km (112 miles)

• Travel Time: 3–4 hours

• Highlights:

  • Ngorongoro Crater — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Dense populations of predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

  • Buffalo, elephants, and zebras in a stunning volcanic crater setting.

• Day Trip Suitability: Possible, but very early departure recommended. A day trip here allows 4–5 hours inside the crater.

How a Day Trip from Arusha Works

When asking “Is it possible to do a day trip to a park from Arusha?”, it helps to understand what a typical day looks like:

1. Early Morning Departure – Most day trips depart between 5:30–6:30 AM to maximize wildlife viewing.

2. Arrival at the Park – Depending on the distance, arrival may range from 45 minutes (Arusha National Park) to 3–4 hours (Ngorongoro or Lake Manyara).

3. Morning Game Drive – The cooler hours attract more wildlife activity.

4. Lunch Break – Often a picnic in the park or at a designated lodge/campsite.

5. Afternoon Safari – Additional game viewing, bird watching, or optional guided walks.

6. Return to Arusha – Arrival back in the city by late afternoon or early evening.

Costs of a Day Trip from Arusha

The cost of a day trip depends on park entrance fees, safari vehicle hire, guide fees, and optional extras. Approximate costs (2025 estimates) include:

• Arusha National Park: $80–$120 per person

• Lake Manyara National Park: $150–$200 per person

• Tarangire National Park: $150–$200 per person

• Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip: $200–$250 per person

These costs usually cover park fees, driver-guide, and 4×4 vehicle hire. Some packages may include lunch, bottled water, and soft drinks.