Tarangire National Park

About Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania's most spectacular and underrated national parks, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and massive elephant herds. Here’s an overview of what makes it special:

Key Features of Tarangire National Park

Elephant ParadiseTarangire has one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa, with herds often numbering in the hundreds. Iconic Baobab Trees The park is dotted with ancient baobab trees, creating a dramatic and photogenic landscape.

Close-up of an African elephant in Arusha, Tanzania, showcasing its majestic presence in the wild.

Diverse Wildlife

Besides elephants, the park is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, and rare species like fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk. Over 550 bird species make it a birdwatcher’s paradise, including the yellow-collared lovebird and kori bustard.

Close-up of an African elephant in Arusha, Tanzania, showcasing its majestic presence in the wild.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (June–October) – Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Wet Season (November–May) – Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and excellent birdwatching (though some roads may be muddy).

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Activities in Tarangire

Game Drives – Day and night drives to see predators and nocturnal animals. Walking Safaris – Explore the wilderness on foot with an armed guide. Birdwatching – Especially rewarding in the green season. Cultural Visits – Nearby Maasai villages offer cultural experiences.

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Where to Stay

Luxury: Tarangire Treetops, Lemala Tarangire Mid-Range: Tarangire Safari Lodge, Sopa Lodge Budget & Camping: Public campsites inside the park

Beautiful villa with pool illuminated at twilight in Kayaköy, Türkiye, offering a serene vacation spot.

Why Visit Tarangire?

Less crowded than Serengeti or Ngorongoro but equally rewarding. Unique landscapes with baobabs and termite mounds. One of the best places in Tanzania to see elephants up close.

A serene safari scene with African elephants and a hot air balloon over a lush savannah.

Recomanded Safari to Tarangire

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Close-up of an African elephant in Arusha, Tanzania, showcasing its majestic presence in the wild.
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • In northern Tanzania, about 120 km southwest of Arusha, near Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

  • It covers 2,850 km² (1,100 sq mi), making it the 6th largest national park in Tanzania.

Known for:Massive elephant herds (one of Africa’s largest populations). Ancient baobab trees dotting the landscape.Seasonal wildlife migration (thousands of wildebeest & zebras, June–Nov).Less crowded than Serengeti or Ngorongoro

Big Five? Yes—lions, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants (no rhinos).Other wildlife: cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, wild dogs (rare), and rare antelopes like fringe-eared oryx & gerenuk.Birdlife: Over 550 species, including the kori bustard (world’s heaviest flying bird).

Best for wildlife: June–October (dry season, animals gather near the Tarangire River).Best for birds & greenery: November–May (wet season, fewer tourists).

  • Luxury: Tarangire Treetops, Lemala Tarangire.

  • Mid-range: Tarangire Safari Lodge, Sopa Lodge.

  • Budget: Public campsites inside the park.

Tarangire National Park: Day Trip Itinerary

6:00 AM – Depart from Arusha/Moshi

  • Pick-up: Your guide arrives at your hotel in Arusha (or Moshi).

  • Drive time: ~2.5 hours to Tarangire (scenic views of Maasai villages and landscapes).

  • Breakfast: Packed breakfast provided (or stop at a café en route).

8:30 AM – Arrive at Tarangire National Park

  • Entry gate: Main gate (or Kuro airstrip if flying in).

  • Briefing: Quick overview from your guide about the park’s highlights.

9:00 AM – Morning Game Drive

  • Focus: Elephants, lions, and birdlife near the Tarangire River.

  • Key spots:

    • Silale Swamp (great for predators & large herds).

    • Baobab valleys (iconic photo backdrops).

    • Termite mounds (often used by lions as lookout points).

12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch

  • Location: Scenic picnic site (e.g., Tarangire Safari Lodge or public picnic area).

  • Meal: Packed lunch (usually sandwiches, fruit, juice, and snacks).

1:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive

  • Focus: Exploring less crowded areas like Lemiyon & Gursi plains.

  • Wildlife to spot:

    • Leopards (around swampy areas).

    • Cheetahs (open grasslands).

    • Rare antelopes (gerenuk, fringe-eared oryx).

3:30 PM – Final Stop at the Tarangire River

    • Best for: Elephants drinking, buffalo herds, and sunset views.

4:00 PM – Depart for Arusha/Moshi

  • Drive back: ~2.5 hours (arrive by 6:30 PM).

  • Drop-off: At your hotel.

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What to Bring?

  • Hiking shoes (trail can be slippery)
  • Swimwear & towel (if you want to swim)
  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
  • Camera (the waterfall is breathtaking!)
  • Small backpack for personal items

Included

  • ✔ Park entry fees
    ✔ Professional guide & 4x4 safari vehicle
    ✔ Picnic lunch & bottled water
    ✔ Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Excluded

✖ Tips for the guide/driver
✖ Alcoholic drinks
✖ Travel insurance