These are beautiful alkaline lakes that are found within the Arusha National Park in the northeastern end of northern Tanzania. The Arusa national park is regarded as one of the prettiest and biggest lakes by the volume of the momella because of the shallow depth of 4 m and 10 m for its shallowness and the deepest links, respectively. Its water is derived from a combination of rainfall and underground streams, and it is home to a variety of creatures, including hippos and ducks, as well as water birds such as the small and great crested grebes, southern pochard, Maccoa duck, Sacred ibis, and many others. Hippos spend the majority of their time around the lake’s islands.

Lake Momela is an alkaline lake formed by volcanic debris that fell from Mount Meru 250,000 years ago. Animals do not drink the water because of its alkalinity, but zebras and birds can be observed on the lake’s edges. The crater draws thousands of flamingos and other birds due to its alkalinity, and bird viewing has become popular near the lake. The lakeshores of the Great Momella, in particular, can be observed to be tinged pink as vast flocks of flamingos rush to the coasts. Each lake has a varied mineral and algae composition, attracting diverse bird species. Many of the park’s waterfowl, notably the greater and lesser flamingos, thrive in these lakes.

You can also go canoeing on the lake. Canoe safaris are a one-of-a-kind experience in northern Tanzania’s parks. The canoes float softly over the lake, allowing you to get up close and personal with the many diverse animal species that call this place home. Lake Longyil, unlike Lake Momela, is freshwater, with buffalo and waterbucks dwelling nearby. Arusha National Park’s Lake Momela is the showpiece of Arusha National Park’s east section, which stretches into Mount Meru’s forests.

The Momela Lakeside Lookout is located on the shores of Lake Momela in Arusha National Park’s northeastern region. It is surrounded by meadows and only a few small trees, but it is the area’s highest point. It is difficult to find when driving, although there are various concrete seats where you can sit. It’s also a tranquil spot, with only the occasional distant sound of nature to be heard.

 

How to get to Momella Lakes

A half-hour trip from the Ngurudoto museum and 45 minutes from the Ngongongare gate by car. You can use any sort of vehicle, though the last stretch from the main road can be difficult for non-four-wheel-drive vehicles. Walking and cycling are other options for transportation, though you may need to contact park authorities as well as hire a park ranger. Please contact us for further information on park fees and permits. They will have you attend as well.

What to do and see in Momella Lakes

With game drives around it and its adjacent lake, Rishateni (small Momella), you can spend time there and from there at several viewpoints, campgrounds, and picnic sites.

Visit the Cave Falls. Cave Falls is one of many water sources for the Arusha Urban Water Supply Authority, which is located just a short distance inside Arusha National Park and on the slopes of Mount Meru-Tanzania, as well as the falls.

Kilimanjaro Lookout (Arusha). A beautiful picnic spot on the slopes of Mount Meru, it offers a great view of Kilimanjaro from a distance, but only on clear days. More reliable are the views from most of the lowlands of Arusha National Park and the Ngurdoto Crater Rim. You can also visit the waterfalls in the park (Tulsua Falls, Maio Falls, and Napur Falls).

Momela Lookout

On a boat and canoe guide through pink colonies of flamingos, get up close to buffalo grazing on the shoreline and enjoy the company of snorting hippos.

Walking safaris, exploring the African bush on foot, the sounds, smells, and elements of nature, and close encounters with wildlife are the most safari-like experiences.

Following a visit to Momella Lake, you will get the opportunity to observe hundreds of pink flamingos ascending into the sky. You might also encounter hippos and giraffes in their natural habitats. The day concludes with a trip to the viewpoint (Boma la Megi), where you may have a sundowner with a spectacular view of Mt. Kilimanjaro.