The Momella Lakes are a series of beautiful alkaline lakes located within Arusha National Park, in the northeastern part of northern Tanzania. Arusha National Park is regarded as one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks, and the Momella Lakes are among its most striking features. These lakes are relatively shallow, with depths ranging from about 4 meters to a maximum of 10 meters. Their water supply comes from a combination of rainfall and underground streams, creating an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

The lakes support numerous animal species, including hippos and ducks, as well as a rich variety of water birds such as small and great crested grebes, southern pochards, Maccoa ducks, sacred ibises, and many others. Hippos are often seen spending most of their time around the small islands within the lakes, making the area particularly attractive for wildlife viewing.

Formation and Birdlife of Momella Lakes

Lake Momella is an alkaline lake formed from volcanic debris ejected by Mount Meru around 250,000 years ago. Due to its high alkalinity, most animals do not drink directly from the lake, although zebras and birds are commonly seen along its shores. The alkaline conditions attract thousands of flamingos and other bird species, making bird watching a popular activity around the lakes.

In particular, the shores of Great Momella Lake often appear pink as large flocks of flamingos gather along the water’s edge. Each of the Momella Lakes has a unique mineral and algae composition, which attracts different bird species. Many of the park’s water birds, especially greater and lesser flamingos, thrive in these conditions, making the lakes a prime birding destination.

Canoeing and Wildlife Experiences

Visitors to Momella Lakes can also enjoy canoeing, which offers a unique safari experience rarely found in northern Tanzania’s national parks. Canoe safaris allow visitors to glide quietly across the water, offering close-up views of wildlife in a peaceful setting. From the canoe, it is possible to observe birds, buffalo grazing along the shoreline, and hippos resting in the water.

Nearby Lake Longil, unlike Lake Momella, is freshwater and supports animals such as buffalo and waterbuck. Together, these lakes form the highlight of the eastern section of Arusha National Park, which stretches into the forested slopes of Mount Meru.

Cape Buffalo on Momella Lake

Momella Lakeside Lookout

The Momella Lakeside Lookout is situated along the shores of Lake Momella in the northeastern region of Arusha National Park. Surrounded by open grasslands with only a few scattered trees, it sits at one of the highest points in the area. Although it can be difficult to locate while driving, the lookout features several concrete seating areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the view. It is a peaceful spot, with only distant natural sounds breaking the silence.

How to Get to Momella Lakes

Momella Lakes are accessible by a half-hour drive from the Ngurdoto Museum and about 45 minutes from the Ngongongare Gate. Most vehicle types can be used, although the final stretch from the main road may be challenging for non-four-wheel-drive vehicles. Walking and cycling are also possible options, but visitors must coordinate with park authorities and hire a park ranger. For details on park fees and permits, visitors are advised to contact the relevant authorities in advance.

What to Do and See at Momella Lakes

Visitors can enjoy game drives around Momella Lake and the nearby Rishateni Lake, also known as Small Momella. The area features several viewpoints, picnic sites, and camping grounds where visitors can relax and take in the scenery.

Other nearby attractions include Cave Falls, one of the water sources for the Arusha Urban Water Supply Authority, located on the slopes of Mount Meru within the park. Kilimanjaro Lookout is another popular stop, offering a picnic spot with distant views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. Additional waterfalls within the park include Tulsua Falls, Maio Falls, and Napur Falls.

Walking safaris are also available, allowing visitors to explore the African bush on foot while experiencing the sounds, scents, and close encounters with wildlife. Boat and canoe safaris take visitors through pink colonies of flamingos and past grazing buffalo along the shoreline.

A visit to Momella Lakes often concludes with the sight of hundreds of flamingos taking flight into the sky. Visitors may also encounter hippos and giraffes in their natural habitats. The day typically ends with a visit to the Boma la Megi viewpoint, where guests can enjoy a sundowner while taking in spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.