Arusha National Park covers an area of 542 sq. kilometers and lies between the peaks of Mountain Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru and ascends from 1500 meters at Momela to 4566 meters at the summit of Mount Meru. Initially, when established in 1960, the park contained Ngurdoto Crater and Momela lakes, until 1967 when Mt. Meru was made part of it.

The flora and fauna varies with the topography, which ranges from forest to swamp. The best time for visiting is during the dry season from July-March. The best months to climb Mount Meru are June-February (although there are some rains in November). On clear days magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru can be seen from almost any part of the park. The best views of Mt. Kilimanjaro are from December-February.