Day excursions
Canoeing on the Momella Lakes
Canoeing in Arusha National Park is a highlight for nature lovers. Paddle across the calm, shallow waters of the Momella Lakes on a guided canoe safari. This peaceful activity (typically 1.5–2.5 hours) lets you glide silently while spotting wildlife such as hippos, buffaloes, giraffes, and abundant birdlife, including flamingos.
Why it’s special: Enjoy stunning views of Mount Meru and, on clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s family-friendly (suitable for ages 8+ with supervision) and one of the few places in Tanzania where you can canoe inside a national park. Combine it with a game drive or walking safari for a full day.
Best time: Morning for birdwatching and cooler temperatures. Life jackets and guides ensure safety.
Napuru Waterfall Hike
Napuru Waterfall (also known as Mount Meru or Meru Waterfall) is a stunning hidden gem on the slopes of Mount Meru, just a short drive from Arusha town. The moderate hike (about 45 minutes to 2 hours one way, ~4km) takes you through lush pine and indigenous forests, across river crossings, and down into a gorge to a powerful ~78-meter cascading waterfall with natural pools for swimming.
What to expect:
- Scenic trails with birds, monkeys, and panoramic views of Arusha below.
- Refreshing swim at the base and picnic spots.
- Opportunities for camping, quad biking, or additional forest walks at the site.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes (trails can be slippery), bring water, and go with a local guide. It’s ideal as a half- or full-day trip from Arusha.
Arusha National Park – A Mini-Safari Paradise
Arusha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and diverse parks, famous for its varied landscapes: dense forests, crater lakes, wetlands, and open savanna. It’s a fantastic introduction to Tanzanian wildlife without long drives.
Key activities and attractions:
- Game Drives — Spot black and white colobus monkeys, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and buffaloes. Ngurdoto Crater offers excellent viewpoints.
- Walking Safaris — One of the few parks allowing unvehicle safaris with armed rangers an intimate way to experience nature.
- Mount Meru Climb — A challenging multi-day trek (up to 4,566m) with incredible views a great alternative or warm up to Kilimanjaro.
- Birdwatching — Over 400 species in this compact park.
The park is only about 30–60 minutes from Arusha town, making it perfect for day trips.
Biking
Explore the scenic foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro on two wheels for an active and immersive way to experience the region’s landscapes, villages, and culture. Mountain biking or village cycling tours take you through lush coffee plantations, banana groves, and traditional Chagga communities with stunning views of Africa’s highest peak.
Highlights:
- Ride on varied terrain from gentle paths to more challenging trails.
- Stop at local farms for insights into coffee production and daily life.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.
- Suitable for different fitness levels with guided tours available.
Best for: Adventure seekers, families, and photographers. Tours often last half to full days, with options for e-bikes on longer routes. Wear comfortable cycling gear, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Important notice
- Price on request.
- Duration to be announced at time of tour
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Canoeing at Lake Duluti
Lake Duluti is a serene volcanic crater lake near Arusha, surrounded by lush forest. Glide across its calm waters in a stable canoe for a peaceful, nature-focused experience. Spot abundant birdlife (kingfishers, fish eagles, hamerkops), monitor lizards, and monkeys in the trees.
Horse riding
Experience horseback riding in Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, whether on the mainland or in Zanzibar. Near Moshi on the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoy scenic rides through lush coffee plantations, banana groves, traditional Chagga villages, and open countryside with breathtaking views of Africa’s highest peak ideal for beginners and experienced riders seeking a cultural and natural immersion. In Zanzibar, ride along pristine white sand beaches in areas like Nungwi, Kendwa, or Kiwengwa, where you can canter by turquoise waters, enjoy romantic sunset rides, or even swim with the horses in the Indian Ocean for a truly magical tropical adventure. Both options offer guided tours suitable for different levels in stunning settings.
Day hiking at Marangu
Tackle a rewarding day hike on the popular Marangu Route (also known as the Coca-Cola Route) of Mount Kilimanjaro. Start from Marangu Gate and trek through dense rainforest to Mandara Hut or Maundi Crater, enjoying the mountain’s diverse ecosystems
Materuni
Visit the impressive Materuni Waterfalls in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, near Moshi. Hike through vibrant Chagga village landscapes and lush trails to reach the powerful cascade, where crystal-clear water plunges into a natural pool perfect for swimming.
Kikuletwa hotspring
Also known as Chemka or Maji Moto, Kikuletwa Hot Springs is a turquoise oasis fed by underground geothermal waters from Kilimanjaro. Swim, relax, and swing from ropes into the clear, warm pools surrounded by lush vegetation.
Precautions
- Be physically prepared, and watch for traffic or uneven ground.
- Attend the safety orientation before paddling.
- Wear a helmet, long trousers, closed-toe boots, and proper riding gear.
- Follow guide briefing on safety procedures and horse handling.
- Carry plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Wear sturdy, grippy hiking shoes (trail is slippery and muddy). Use a walking stick if needed. Go slowly especially on descents.
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