Arusha National Park to Launch New Tourism Products Following International Recognition

Arusha – Arusha National Park (Anapa) is set to introduce new tourism products designed to boost both domestic and international visitor numbers, following its recent recognition as one of the world’s best places to visit in 2026.

The initiative aims to attract more tourists to experience the park’s diverse attractions, including Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and giraffe viewing opportunities.

The announcement was made by the park’s chief warden, Ms Witness Shoo, as tourism activities continued within the facility.

Ms Shoo said the international recognition represents a major honour expected to further raise the park’s profile and increase visitor arrivals.

She noted that Arusha National Park boasts a wide range of attractions, including Mount Meru, dense forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes, adding that new tourism products would be developed to strengthen both domestic and international tourism.

"Arusha National Park has been recognized for its many attractions such as Mount Meru, the Ngurdoto Crater, and the Momella Lakes, which are adorned by flamingos, as well as the Ngarenanyuki River with its distinctive brown waters," she said.

The park’s thick forests are home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, which visitors can photograph at close range, while also enjoying activities such as walking safaris, cycling, and canoeing on the lakes.

Ms Shoo said the planned tourism products would not only attract more visitors but also create new investment opportunities, urging both local and foreign investors to seize the opportunities in line with existing laws and procedures.

"I invite investors and visitors to this unique park, which has a mountain, plains, waterfalls, and many other features. We are encouraging Tanzanians to continue visiting attractions within our own country," she said.

Visitor numbers rose from 60,000 to 72,000 in the 2024/25 financial year, with the park now targeting more than 100,000 visitors this year.

Tourist Suraji Navarante said what impressed him most about the park were the views of Mount Meru, the waterfalls, and the tranquil environment. "I have found this park to be among the best because of its peaceful environment, which can make your journey truly enjoyable," he said.

The head of communications at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Emmanuel Buhohela, said tourism promotional campaigns have significantly encouraged Tanzanians to visit national parks.

"These campaigns have greatly helped to promote Tanzania abroad and stimulate domestic tourism. We will continue to encourage this to increase revenue," he said.

Gedion Swai, a tourist from Kilimanjaro Region, said his group decided to visit the park to experience its attractions firsthand.

"We have decided that this year we should not just watch visitors coming to our parks, but that we too should visit and enjoy the attractions together, instead of remaining only in urban areas," he said.

Arusha National Park was recently listed among the best destinations to visit in 2026, highlighting Tanzania’s growing appeal as a premier tourist destination.