MileHacker Logo
Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Northern Tanzania, Tanzania

Nearby Destinations

Several world-renowned national parks and cultural sites are within day-trip proximity or serve as logical starting points for multi-day safaris from Arusha.

Arusha National Park: Approx. 30 km / 18 miles from Arusha, 45 min drive. Travel included in guided tours from Arusha. Private taxis carry you there, but a park ranger/guide accompanies you for activities inside.

Suggested Experiences

  • Morning game drive through the park.
  • Afternoon walking safari with a ranger.
  • Serene canoeing safari on Momella Lakes.
  • This park is unique for offering walking safaris.

Nature & Culture Experiences

Beyond the national parks, natural attractions near Arusha provide opportunities for relaxation and immersion in beautiful landscapes. Engage with local cultures through direct experiences in nearby villages and workshops.

Lake Manyara National Park

Approx. 126 km / 78 miles from Arusha, 1.5-2 hour drive. Typically by safari vehicle as part of an organized day tour or the first stop on a multi-day safari.

Park Focus

  • Known for tree-climbing lions (rarely seen).
  • Large baboon troops roam.
  • Diverse birdlife, including flamingos (water levels permitting).

Tarangire National Park

Approx. 130 km / 80 miles from Arusha, 2-3 hour drive. By safari vehicle as part of an organized day tour or the opening park on a multi-day safari.

Park Focus

  • Famous for its large elephant herds.
  • Iconic baobab trees throughout the park.
  • Excellent wildlife viewing, especially in the dry season.

Moshi & Area Activities

Materuni & Chemka Springs

  • Materuni Waterfall hike.
  • Traditional coffee tour with Chagga people.
  • Afternoon swim at Chemka Hot Springs.
  • Views of Mount Kilimanjaro often clearer here.

Cultural Immersion

  • Maasai Bomas/Villages visits.
  • Coffee Plantation Tours.
  • Shanga Workshop for ethically produced crafts.
  • Relax at Chemka/Kikuletwa Hot Springs.

Essential Information

  • Local Currency:Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
  • Time Zone:EAT (GMT+3)
  • Power Outlets:Type D / G
  • Drinking Water:Bottled Water Advised
  • Emergency Number:112
  • Visa:Check requirements in advance
  • Travel Insurance:Recommended
  • Vaccinations:Consult Medical Professional

Day Trip Selection

When selecting a day trip to a national park, consider your interests. Arusha National Park presents walking and canoeing, while Tarangire is known for elephants, and Manyara for diverse habitats.

Multi-Day Extensions

Arusha is the perfect starting point for longer regional travel, especially to Tanzania's world-famous safari destinations and coastal retreats. Explore bookable experiences via GetYourGuide.

Safari Circuit

Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Conservation Area offer quintessential Tanzanian safari experiences. A minimum of 3-4 days (2 nights) covers both.

Mount Kilimanjaro

A 5-9 day trek to Africa's highest peak (5,895m / 19,341ft). Most climbs start from Moshi (near Arusha) but are logistically arranged from Arusha.

Zanzibar Island

A popular post-safari beach extension, known for pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and historic Stone Town. A 3-5 day extension provides a good balance.

Safari Access

The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area are quintessential Tanzanian safari experiences. Access often occurs by flying from Arusha Airport (ARK) to Serengeti airstrips (e.g., Seronera) to save travel time.

Duration

  • Minimum 3-4 days (2 nights) for Ngorongoro & brief Serengeti.
  • Ideally 5+ days for in-depth and relaxed experience.
  • Option for long but scenic drive from Arusha.

Zanzibar Connection

Zanzibar is a popular post-safari beach extension. It is known for pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the historic Stone Town, an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel Notes

  • Accessed by domestic flight from Arusha (ARK) or Kilimanjaro (JRO).
  • Flights are frequent.
  • A 3-5 day extension offers a good balance of relaxation and exploration.

Suggested Regional Route

1. Arusha:Arrival & City Exploration
2. Northern Safari Circuit:3-7 days (Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti)
3. Zanzibar:3-5 days (Beach & Culture)
4. Departure:From Dar es Salaam or JRO
Overall:Comprehensive Tanzania Experience
Safari Logistics:Discuss flight vs. Drive with operator.

Safari Planning Advice

  • For multi-day safaris, discuss logistical details (e.g., flight vs. Drive, specific camps) with your tour operator.
  • This helps tailor the experience to your preferences and budget.
  • Consider ethical tour operators like G Adventures for responsible travel options.

Planning Your Excursions

Careful planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable excursion experience from Arusha.

Trip Logistics

1

Transportation

Determine how you will reach your destination: organized safari vehicle, public transport (dala-dala), or private taxi. Safari vehicles are common for park access.

2

Time Allocation

Some parks are full-day trips due to travel distance.

3

Guide & Permits

For national parks, a park ranger or licensed guide often accompanies you. Entry permits are necessary and usually part of an organized tour package.

Outdoor Activities

  • Enjoy nature walks and hiking in designated areas.
  • Consider birdwatching for diverse avian species.
  • Canoeing on Momella Lakes (Arusha NP) presents a peaceful option.
  • Wildlife viewing is a main activity in national parks.
  • Photography opportunities abound in scenic landscapes.
  • Relaxation at natural hot springs.

Cultural Engagement

  • Visit Maasai cultural villages for insights into their traditions.
  • Participate in coffee plantation tours to learn about coffee production.
  • Support local artisans by visiting workshops like Shanga.
  • Experience traditional dances and storytelling.
  • Engage with local communities to learn about their daily life.
  • Sample local cuisine at small eateries.

Day Trip Locations

Arusha National Park

Closest national park, great for half-day visits, walking safaris, and canoeing.

Chemka Hot Springs

Natural, warm spring-fed pools perfect for swimming and relaxation amidst lush greenery.

Materuni Waterfalls

Scenic falls near Moshi, often combined with a coffee tour and Kilimanjaro views.

Advanced Booking

For popular day trips and multi-day safaris, reserving your spot in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. This helps secure your preferred dates and guides.
← Previous
Activities & Experiences
← Back to Arusha
Next →
Communication

Next Up: Communication

Continue to Communication