Tarangire National Park

A Wildlife Paradise in Tanzania

Destination Overview

Tarangire National Park, located in the northern part of Tanzania, is a hidden gem known for its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique atmosphere. Covering an area of over 2,600 square kilometers, it is one of the largest national parks in Tanzania and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, which include open savannahs, swamps, and baobab-dotted hills.

Tarangire is a prime safari destination that offers an authentic African wildlife experience, with fewer crowds compared to other popular parks in the region, such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Northern Tanzania

Attractions Found in Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is famous for its exceptional natural beauty and remarkable wildlife. Some of the top attractions include:

Baobab Trees

The park is known for its iconic and ancient baobab trees, which create a unique landscape, often referred to as “The Land of Giants.” These trees are a photographer’s dream and provide a surreal backdrop for wildlife sightings.

Tarangire River

The river that runs through the park is a vital water source for the animals during the dry season. It attracts large herds of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and other wildlife, making it a prime location for game viewing.

Swamps and Wetlands

The Tarangire River and its surrounding wetlands are vital for wildlife, especially during the dry season. The wetlands are home to a variety of bird species and offer incredible opportunities for birdwatching.

Elephant Herds

Tarangire is often referred to as the “elephant sanctuary” of Tanzania. The park is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in East Africa, making it a haven for elephant lovers.

Things to Do / Activities in Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park offers a variety of activities to enhance your safari experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these activities will bring you closer to nature:

Game Drives:

Enjoy exciting game drives through Tarangire’s diverse ecosystems. Witness large herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and various predators in their natural habitat. The dry season is particularly good for game viewing when animals congregate around the river and watering holes.

Birdwatching:

Tarangire is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the park. You can spot a range of birds from the famous secretary bird to migratory species like the yellow-collared lovebird.

Night Safari:

Embark on a thrilling night safari to observe nocturnal wildlife such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and other animals that are active after dark.

Walking Safari

Explore the park on foot with a guided walking safari. This offers an intimate, up-close experience with the environment, allowing you to learn about the flora and fauna from a knowledgeable guide.

Cultural Visits:

Discover the cultural heritage of the local Maasai and Barabaig communities by visiting nearby villages. Experience traditional dances, crafts, and lifestyle demonstrations.

Game Drives:

Birdwatching:

Night Safari:

Embark on a thrilling night safari to observe nocturnal wildlife such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and other animals that are active after dark.

Walking Safari

Explore the park on foot with a guided walking safari. This offers an intimate, up-close experience with the environment, allowing you to learn about the flora and fauna from a knowledgeable guide.

Cultural Visits:

Discover the cultural heritage of the local Maasai and Barabaig communities by visiting nearby villages. Experience traditional dances, crafts, and lifestyle demonstrations.

How to Get There

Tarangire National Park is easily accessible from Arusha, the gateway city to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. It is about a 2 hour drive from Arusha, making it a convenient stop for visitors heading to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater. Alternatively, you can fly into the Kilimanjaro International Airport (about 1.5 hours away to Arusha) and continue your journey by road to the park. For those seeking a quicker option, there are also charter flights available from Arusha to the park’s airstrip, offering a scenic aerial view of the landscapes below.

Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

The best time to visit Tarangire National Park depends on the type of wildlife experience you’re seeking:
Dry Season (June to October): This is the peak time for wildlife viewing. The animals congregate around the Tarangire River and waterholes, making it easier to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. The dry weather ensures the roads are passable and the visibility is excellent.
Green Season (November to April): While Tarangire is less crowded during the rainy season, it’s also the time when the park’s lush landscapes come to life. This period is ideal for birdwatching, as migratory species flock to the area. However, some areas may be harder to access due to rains, and wildlife sightings can be more challenging.

Weather and Climate

Tarangire National Park experiences a semi-arid climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The park's climate is influenced by its location, with moderate temperatures throughout the year. Here’s what you can expect:
Dry Season (June to October): Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with cooler evenings. The dry weather makes it an ideal time for safari activities.
Rainy Season (November to April): The long rains occur from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). During this time, the landscape becomes lush and green, though occasional heavy rains can make roads muddy and access to some areas difficult. The short rains in November and December can be sporadic but offer fewer tourists and vibrant scenery.

Safari Packages

5 Days | 4 Nights

Serengeti and Ngorongoro World Wonders

6 Days | 5 Nights

Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

7 Days | 6 Nights

Experience Tanzania locals and Wildlife

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Kilimanjaro Packages

6 Days | 5 Nights

Marangu Route

7 Days | 6 Nights

Machame Route

8 Days | 7 Nights

Lemosho Route

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Top Destinations

Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro Crater