Serengeti National Park (NP)Ngorongoro CraterLake Manyara NPTarangire NPArusha NP

Located between the peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, Arusha National Park covers an area of 137 square kilometers. There are three main areas of interest in Arusha National Park: the Ngurdoto Volcano Crater, the Momela Lakes, and the rugged Mt. Meru. Arusha National Park is also known for its remarkable range of altitude, topography, and vegetation, the park hosts a variety of species particular to forest, mountain, and aquatic habitats.

The Ngurdoto Crater: Lip to lip, the crater extends 3 kilometers and descends into a volcanic bowl packed with wildlife. The view from the rim is spectacular, where buffalo and warthogs can often be seen on the crater's swampy floor and the huge crowned eagle have been spotted flying overhead from time to time. It is surrounded by highland forest, a prime setting to also spot black and white colobus monkeys traveling along the treetops.

The Momela Lakes: These lakes, like many in the estimated 20 million-year-old Rift Valley, are shallow, alkaline and supplied predominantly by underground streams. Giraffes, hippos, and elephants are especially common to this area. Remarkably, the area is also a birder's paradise, hosting an astonishing variety of migratory and resident bird life. Over 400 species of birds have been recorded in the park. In addition to the large flamingo population, some famous species include the Crowned Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Silvery-Cheeked Hornbill, Egyptian Vulture, and Hammerhead Stork.

The Mt. Meru Crater: Mt. Meru, Tanzania's second highest peak, is an interesting mixture of lush forests and bare rocks. It offers one of the most spectacular landscapes in Africa and is considered to be the highlight of any visit to Arusha National Park. The forests contain a wealth of birds and other animals. Those who ascend the imposing 15,000-foot summit of the mountain will be rewarded with incomparable views of the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valley.