Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park Tanzania’s Elephant Kingdom

Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania’s most underrated yet spectacular safari destinations, renowned for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. Located in northern Tanzania, about 2 hours’ drive from Arusha, the park offers a classic African safari experience with wide savannahs, seasonal swamps, and the life-giving Tarangire River that attracts animals year-round.

During the dry season, Tarangire becomes a wildlife hotspot, hosting some of the highest concentrations of animals in Tanzania. Its scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and fewer crowds compared to Serengeti make it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.

Why Visit Tarangire National Park?

Tarangire offers an authentic safari experience with fewer crowds, abundant wildlife, and dramatic scenery. Its elephant herds, diverse birdlife, and peaceful atmosphere make it an excellent addition to any Northern Tanzania safari circuit, especially when combined with Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti.

boabab-tarangire-national-park

Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

  • June to October (Dry Season):
    Best time for wildlife viewing. Animals gather along the Tarangire River, offering excellent game viewing and photography.

  • November to May (Green Season):
    Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and excellent birdwatching. Calving season attracts predators, though wildlife is more spread out.

Top Visitor Experiences in Tarangire National Park

  • Game Drives – Witness massive elephant herds and predators in open savannahs

  • Elephant Watching – Observe natural elephant behavior up close

  • Bird Watching – Spot rare and colorful species year-round

  • Baobab Tree Viewing – Photograph iconic, centuries-old trees

  • Photography Safaris – Stunning light, landscapes, and wildlife scenes

  • Walking Safaris – Guided walks for an intimate bush experience (selected areas)

  • Cultural Visits – Explore nearby Maasai villages and local traditions

Key Facts About Tarangire National Park

  • Location: Northern Tanzania

  • Distance from Arusha: Approx. 120 km (2–3 hours’ drive)

  • Size: About 2,850 km²

  • Established: 1970

  • Main Feature: Tarangire River (permanent water source)

  • Famous For: Large elephant populations & baobab trees

Most Common Wildlife in Tarangire National Park

  • African Elephants (one of the largest populations in Tanzania)

  • Lions

  • Leopards

  • Cheetahs

  • African Buffalo

  • Masai Giraffes

  • Plains Zebras

  • Wildebeests

  • Grant’s & Thomson’s Gazelles

  • Greater & Lesser Kudu

  • Oryx (rare in other northern parks)

Birdlife in Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 550 bird species, including:

  • Yellow-collared Lovebirds

  • Kori Bustards

  • Secretary Birds

  • Ostriches

  • Hornbills

  • Eagles & Vultures

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Tarangire National Park

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