Tarangire National Park
Nestled in northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is often overshadowed by the more famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro, but it’s an absolute treasure for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts. Covering approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles), Tarangire is the sixth-largest national park in Tanzania and boasts a unique combination of abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a quiet, uncrowded safari atmosphere.
Tarangire National Park is a remarkable destination for anyone looking to experience Tanzania’s wildlife in a peaceful, authentic setting. Its combination of rich wildlife, exceptional birdwatching, dramatic baobab-studded landscapes, and seasonal migrations make it a standout park on any northern safari itinerary.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Tarangire offers a deep and rewarding safari experience. And with easy access to other major parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, it serves as a perfect starting point or highlight in your Tanzanian adventure.
Tarangire is most renowned for its large elephant population. During the dry season (June to October), thousands of elephants converge around the Tarangire River, the park’s only permanent water source. It’s common to witness herds of up to 300 elephants roaming freely—an awe-inspiring sight for any visitor.
Beyond elephants, Tarangire hosts a wide variety of other animals including:
- Lions and leopards
- Cheetahs (less frequently spotted but present)
- Wildebeests, zebras, and giraffes
- Impalas, elands, and waterbucks
- Baboons and vervet monkeys
- The rare fringed-eared oryx and greater kudu
During the dry season, the park acts as a magnet for animals from surrounding areas, resulting in one of the most concentrated wildlife viewing experiences in Tanzania outside the Serengeti.
Tarangire is home to over 550 recorded bird species, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers. Its diverse habitats—including swamps, woodlands, and open savannah—support a rich avian population. Highlights include:
- Yellow-collared lovebirds
- Ashy starlings (endemic to Tanzania)
- Rufous-tailed weavers
- Martial eagles
- Giant kingfishers
- Kori bustards (Africa’s heaviest flying bird)
The swamps in the southern part of the park are particularly good for spotting water birds such as herons, storks, and pelicans.
Dry Season (June to October):
This is the best time for wildlife viewing. Animals congregate at the river, and the vegetation is sparse, making them easier to spot. These months are ideal for photography and classic game drives.
Wet Season (November to May):
The park is lush and green, with fewer tourists and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The wet season is also when many animals give birth, adding another layer of interest for keen wildlife observers. However, some roads can become muddy and harder to navigate.
- Timing Matters: Plan your visit during the dry season for the most abundant wildlife sightings.
- Combine Destinations: Tarangire is often included in a northern circuit safari with Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Early Game Drives: Start early to catch animals at their most active.
- Insect Repellent: Especially important in the wet season when tsetse flies and mosquitoes are more prevalent.
Camera Gear: Bring binoculars and a good zoom lens to make the most of the birdlife and animal encounters.
Getting to Tarangire National Park is relatively straightforward, especially for travelers arriving in northern Tanzania. Here’s how you can reach this spectacular park:
By Air:
Nearest Airport: The closest major airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located about 220 kilometers (approximately 4–5 hours by road) from Tarangire.
Domestic Flights: For a quicker connection, you can fly into Arusha Airport (ARK) via domestic flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Kilimanjaro. From Arusha, it’s about a 2–2.5 hour drive to the park.
Charter Flights: Tarangire also has an airstrip (Kuro Airstrip) that is serviced by small aircraft. You can book charter or scheduled bush flights from Arusha, Serengeti, or other safari destinations through companies like Coastal Aviation or Auric Air.
By Road:
From Arusha: The park is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southwest of Arusha, Tanzania’s safari hub. The journey by road takes 2–3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Self-Drive or Guided Tour: Most travelers visit Tarangire as part of an organized safari package with a driver-guide, but you can also self-drive with a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the dry season.
Tarangire offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences:
Luxury Lodges:
- Tarangire Treetops by Elewana – Unique treehouse-style lodges with superb views.
- Sanctuary Swala Camp – Exclusive and luxurious with a remote setting.
- Lemala Mpingo Ridge – A high-end lodge on the park’s ridge with stunning panoramic views.
Mid-Range:
- Tarangire Safari Lodge – Comfortable tented rooms with excellent river views.
- Sangaiwe Tented Lodge – A charming, eco-friendly option near the Sangaiwe gate.
Budget Options:
- Whistling Thorn Tented Camp
- Campsites within the park for those seeking a more rustic and close-to-nature experience.