Welcome to the land of giants: Tarangire National Park. This vast and beautiful park is renowned for its large herds of elephants and the towering, ancient baobab trees that dot the landscape. Covering approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles), Tarangire is the sixth-largest park in Tanzania. The park derives its name from the Tarangire River, which flows through it and serves as a vital source of fresh water for the entire ecosystem during the dry season. This refuge offers a quieter and more intimate safari experience compared to the busier areas of the Northern Circuit.
Tarangire is famous for hosting one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, with enormous herds of up to 300 individuals roaming the park. During the dry season, the wildlife from surrounding dispersal areas flocks to the permanent Tarangire River and the Silale Swamp, creating an impressive concentration of animals. This seasonal influx is sometimes referred to as a ‘mini-migration.’ The sight of elephants digging into the riverbed to find underground streams is one of the park’s most iconic views. The majestic, hundreds-year-old baobab trees are also a unique feature, providing shade and acting as a food source for elephants.
The park’s diverse landscape is composed of granite ridges, river valleys, seasonal swamps, and various woodlands, supporting a rich mix of resident and migratory species.
Big Cats and Predators: Lion, leopard, and buffalo are commonly spotted. Other predators include cheetah, caracal, African wild dog, and honey badger. Lions often use the thick canopies of Kigelia (sausage trees) or Acacia trees for resting.
Other Mammals: Visitors can easily spot zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, waterbuck, impala, and baboons. Tarangire is also one of the best places to find rare species like the fringe-eared Oryx and the long-necked Gerenuk.
Birdlife: Tarangire is a recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) and a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting over 550 recorded bird species. Notable species include the Kori Bustard and the endemic Yellow-collared Lovebird.
Recommended Stay: We recommend spending at least 2 nights to fully explore the park's quieter southern regions.
Activities: Take advantage of the special activities permitted here, such as Night Game Drives and Guided Walking Safaris, which offer a different scope of adventure.
Accommodation: Look for unique stays like Tarangire Treetops or Oliver's Camp for an authentic, luxury bush experience.
The Dry Season offers the most spectacular wildlife viewing due to the concentration of animals.
Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time, as thousands of animals flood the park to access the Tarangire River. Expect high predator activity.
Green Season (November to May): Wildlife is more dispersed, but the landscape is lush, making it the best time for birdwatching due to migratory species. Enjoy reduced rates and fewer crowds.
The main gate is in the northern part of the park.
Commercial flights can land at Arusha Airport (ARK), followed by a $2 \text{ to } 3 \text{ hour}$ road transfer.
