Itinerary

1. Itinerary for a Full-Day Christmas Eve Trip to Arusha National Park:6:30 AM – 7:00 AM: Departure

   • Pick-up from your hotel or residence in Arusha. Your guide will meet you in the morning, and you will begin your journey to Arusha National Park. The drive from Arusha to the park typically takes about 40-60 minutes.

   7:30 AM: Arrive at Arusha National Park

   • Upon arrival, you will be briefed on the park rules and regulations before starting your adventure.

   8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning Game Drive

   • Begin your morning game drive in Arusha National Park. The park is known for its incredible landscapes, including Mount Meru, Momella Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater.
   • During this time, you may spot various animals, such as giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, monkeys, and several bird species. Unlike the larger parks, Arusha National Park is a great place to enjoy a more intimate experience with nature.

   10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Walking Safari with a Ranger

   • After your game drive, enjoy a guided walking safari in the park, where you can explore the flora and fauna up close. A professional ranger will accompany you and explain the area's ecology, providing insight into the smaller details that are easy to miss from a vehicle.
   • You may encounter more birdlife and smaller mammals, and your guide will also point out interesting plants and their uses.

   11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Visit Momella Lakes

   • You’ll head towards Momella Lakes, famous for its birdlife, especially flamingos. Depending on the season, the lakes can be an exciting place to spot migratory birds. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take photos of the lakes against the backdrop of Mount Meru.

   12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Picnic Lunch

   • Enjoy a packed lunch at a designated picnic area inside the park. A delicious and festive meal can be provided, including options for Christmas Eve like roast meats, salads, fruits, and holiday treats.

   1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Afternoon Game Drive or Crater Exploration

   • Continue your afternoon game drive or visit the Ngurdoto Crater. The crater is smaller than the famous Ngorongoro Crater, but it still offers a chance to observe wildlife like buffaloes, warthogs, and sometimes elephants.
   • The Ngurdoto Crater also offers stunning views and great photography opportunities.

   3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Relaxing at the Park's Viewpoint

   • Relax at one of the scenic viewpoints within the park and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This is a great time to reflect on your experience and take in the stunning views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscape.

   4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Return to Arusha

   • Begin your journey back to Arusha. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to enjoy a beautiful sunset as you head back to town.

   5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Arrival in Arusha

   • Arrive back at your hotel or residence in Arusha, where your trip concludes.