Discover the Wonders of Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park, a treasure trove of natural beauty in Tanzania, boasts some of the world’s most awe-inspiring Baobab trees, whose immense size and distinct form captivate visitors. It is also renowned for hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants globally. In the dry season, herds as large as 300 gather around the Tarangire River, their primary freshwater source. As temperatures soar, elephants can be seen cooling off with a refreshing bath. Remarkably, towards the end of the dry season, they ingeniously dig into the riverbed to access hidden water or seek out Baobab trees to quench their thirst.

A Birdwatcher’s Haven

Beyond its elephant herds, Tarangire is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s swamps are home to an extraordinary diversity of breeding bird species, making it a hotspot for avian enthusiasts. From vibrant parrots and lilac-breasted rollers to majestic eagles and vultures, the variety is astounding. The park’s surroundings also offer sightings of predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the elusive tree-climbing python.

Tarangire’s Authentic Charm

Although not as widely recognized as some of Tanzania’s other parks, Tarangire retains a genuine safari ambiance. Its rolling hills dotted with towering Baobab trees set against a brilliant blue sky create a truly picturesque landscape.

Activities and Excursions in Tarangire National Park

Visitors can enhance their Tarangire experience with a range of activities, including:

  • Walking safaris at Ang’ata Tarangire or Tarangire Safari Lodge
  • Night game drives from the same lodges
  • Cultural visits to a Maasai village
  • Hot air balloon safaris for a bird’s-eye view
  • Cultural tours of the Hadzabe tribe or Mto wa Mbu
  • Mountain biking tours around Lake Manyara

Getting to Tarangire

  • Arusha to Tarangire: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
  • Tarangire to Lake Manyara: About 1 hour by car
  • Tarangire to Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Around 2 hours by car
  • Tarangire to Serengeti: Approximately 4 hours by car

Insider Tips

It’s adventurous exploring both the northern and more remote southern parts of the park for a comprehensive experience. The park’s vast expanse offers a wealth of sights worth the time to explore.

Ideal Visiting Times: Best time to visit Tarangire National Park

Tarangire offers year-round game viewing, but it is particularly rewarding during the dry season from June to October when wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River. Conversely, during the rainy season (April-May), many animals migrate out of the park due to the challenging black cotton soil, which is tough on their hooves.