Day Trips
Safari Overview
Not every traveller has weeks to spend on safari, so Globotrek offers a carefully curated collection of day trips in and around Arusha — the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Zone — where you can experience the elephant herds of Tarangire, the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, the thundering waters of Materuni Falls, the warm springs of Chemka, or the rich culture of the Maasai people, all in just one day with transport, park fees, meals, and an experienced local guide handled for you.
1.
National Park Safaris (Full-Day)
Arusha National Park
The closest park to the city, just a 30–60 minute drive. It is a “hidden gem” with a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, lakes, and savannah in one day.
Key Highlights: See giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and flamingos. Visit the Ngurdoto Crater viewpoint and the Momella Lakes. Optional activities include a guided walking safari (the only park in the northern circuit where you can walk among wildlife) or a canoeing trip on Lake Momella.
Ideal For: Travellers with limited time or those seeking an active, varied experience.
Tarangire National Park
A 2–3 hour drive from Arusha. Famous for its massive baobab trees and the highest density of elephants in northern Tanzania.
Key Highlights: Large elephant herds, lions, giraffes, and over 500 bird species. The park is particularly spectacular from June to October when wildlife congregates near the Tarangire River.
Ideal For: Elephant lovers and photographers.
Ngorongoro Crater
A longer day trip, with a 3.5–4 hour drive each way, but often considered worth it for the sheer wildlife density. You descend over 600 meters to the crater floor for a half-day game drive.
Key Highlights: The best chance to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) in a single day. You will also see flamingo-lined lakes and a hippo pool.
Ideal For: Travellers who want a “once-in-a-lifetime” wildlife experience, even if it means a long day.
Lake Manyara National Park
A 1.5–2 hour drive from Arusha. This park offers a large ecological variety in a small area, from groundwater forest to lakeshore.
Key Highlights: The park’s signature tree-climbing lions (though sightings are lucky), large troops of baboons, flamingos, and hippos. You can also walk on one of Africa’s longest tree canopy walkways.
Ideal For: Birdwatchers and those interested in diverse landscapes.
2.
Nature & Adventure Day Trips
Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour
A full-day cultural and nature experience on the lush slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, about 1.5–2 hours from Arusha.
Key Highlights: Hike to a stunning 80-meter waterfall, learn about the Chagga tribe, and participate in a traditional coffee tour where you hand-pick, roast, grind, and brew your own cup.
Ideal For: Active travellers and coffee enthusiasts.
Chemka Hot Springs (Kikuletwa)
A relaxing half-day or full-day escape about 1.5 hours from Arusha. These are natural, crystal-clear springs surrounded by fig trees, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Key Highlights: Swimming in the warm, turquoise water. Often combined with the Materuni Waterfall tour for a full-day adventure.
Ideal For: A relaxed day out, especially for families or after a safari.
Lake Duluti
Only a 20-minute drive from Arusha, this is a peaceful volcanic crater lake known for its tranquil atmosphere and birdlife.
Key Highlights: Canoeing on the calm waters, a nature walk along the forested shores, and excellent birdwatching.
Ideal For: A quick, half-day nature escape close to the city.
Serval Wildlife Sanctuary
A unique sanctuary where you can get up close and personal with rescued and orphaned animals in a controlled environment.
Key Highlights: A chance for up-close interactions with animals like lions, cheetahs, and servals. It is a popular spot for photography.
Ideal For: Animal lovers and photographers looking for guaranteed close encounters.
3.
Cultural Experiences
Maasai Village Tour
A half-day or full-day cultural immersion. You will visit a traditional Maasai “boma” to learn about their semi-nomadic lifestyle, customs, and traditions.
Key Highlights: Be welcomed with traditional songs and dances, hear storytelling, and see daily activities like cattle herding and beadwork.
Ideal For: Anyone interested in learning about Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.
Arusha City Walking Tour
A half-day exploration of Arusha’s bustling streets. This tour takes you through local markets, past street vendors, and to historical sites.
Key Highlights: Visit the Maasai Market for souvenirs, see the clock tower (a midpoint between Cairo and Cape Town), and experience the vibrant daily life of the city.
Ideal For: Culture enthusiasts and those wanting to experience local life.
Tengeru Village & Coffee Tour
A half-day tour to a local village near Arusha. It combines a cultural walk with a coffee plantation tour.
Key Highlights: Learn about the Meru tribe’s history and traditions and see how coffee is grown and processed on a local farm.
Ideal For: A cultural and agricultural experience close to Arusha.
Ready to Experience Tanzania?
Let us design the safari of your dreams – contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote!
Your Gateway to Africa's Greatest Wildlife Experiences
Experience the Wild Heart of Tanzania – Safari Packages for Every Adventurer
From luxury lodge safaris to budget camping adventures, discover Tanzania’s iconic wildlife with the experts who call it home