Overview
Experience the beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness from a different perspective on the Momella Lakes Canoe Safari in Arusha National Park with Jaja Tanzania Safari. Located a short drive from Arusha, this unique adventure combines peaceful canoeing, a guided walking safari, and spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes.
Paddle across the beautiful Momella Lakes, a series of shallow alkaline lakes known for their distinctive colors, rich birdlife, and scenic surroundings. From the water, enjoy a quieter wildlife-viewing experience as giraffes and buffaloes may be seen grazing or drinking along the shoreline. Depending on the season, you may also spot flamingos and other waterbirds feeding in the shallows.
The adventure continues with a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed park ranger. Explore the park on foot, discover animal tracks, learn about local plants, and gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem. Along the way, keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and other wildlife inhabiting the park’s forests and open landscapes.
With its combination of canoeing, walking, wildlife, and magnificent mountain scenery, this day trip is ideal for travelers seeking an active and immersive nature experience close to Arusha.
Trip Highlights
Canoeing on the Momella Lakes: Enjoy a peaceful guided canoe excursion across the scenic alkaline lakes of Arusha National Park.
Wildlife from the Water: Look for giraffes, buffaloes, and other wildlife along the lake shores from a unique water-level perspective.
Guided Walking Safari: Explore the park on foot with an armed park ranger and discover the smaller details of the natural environment.
Seasonal Birdwatching: Observe flamingos and a variety of waterbirds, depending on the season and lake conditions.
Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys: Look for these distinctive monkeys in the park’s forested areas.
Mount Meru Scenery: Enjoy beautiful views of Mount Meru and, on clear days, the distant peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Convenient Day Trip from Arusha: Visit one of Tanzania’s most accessible national parks without the long drives associated with more distant safari destinations.
Momella Lakes Canoe Safari – Day Trip Itinerary from Arusha
Your day begins with pickup from your hotel in Arusha by your professional driver-guide from Jaja Tanzania Safari. Enjoy a scenic drive to Arusha National Park, where forested slopes, open grasslands, and the impressive presence of Mount Meru create a beautiful introduction to Tanzania’s natural landscapes.
Upon arrival, complete the necessary park formalities before proceeding to the Momella Lakes area for your canoeing adventure. Meet the local canoe guide, receive a safety briefing, and get ready to explore the lakes from the water.
As you paddle across the calm waters, admire the surrounding scenery and observe the rich birdlife that makes this area so special. Look along the shoreline for giraffes and buffaloes coming to drink or graze, while flamingos and other waterbirds may be seen feeding in the shallows when conditions are favorable. Your guide will help you appreciate the lake ecosystem and explain the wildlife and natural features of the area.
After the canoe excursion, take a break and prepare for the next part of your adventure: a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed park ranger. Explore designated walking routes through the park’s natural habitats while learning to recognize animal tracks, identify plants, and understand the relationships between wildlife and the environment. Depending on the route and conditions, you may encounter forest birds, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and other wildlife along the way.
At midday, enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated area within the park, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness.
After lunch, continue enjoying the park’s beautiful landscapes and mountain views, with opportunities for photographs and further nature observation as time permits. Your exact activities and route will depend on the park’s schedule, wildlife conditions, and the arrangements confirmed for your visit.
In the afternoon, conclude your activities and begin the return journey to Arusha. You will be dropped off at your hotel after a memorable day of canoeing, walking, and exploring the natural beauty of Arusha National Park with Jaja Tanzania Safari.
Duration: Full-day excursion
Departure Point: Arusha
Main Activities: Canoeing, guided walking safari, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and nature photography.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a camera, and drinking water.