Tarangire National Park - Tarangire Safari Tours

Tarangire National Park, covering 2,600 square kilometers, is one of the largest national parks in Tanzania. Renowned for its diverse wildlife and excellent tourist accommodations, it is a significant destination for safari enthusiasts. The park derives its name from the Tarangire River, which traverses its landscape and serves as a crucial water source for animals, particularly during the dry season.

Situated in Northern Tanzania, just south of Lake Manyara National Park and a short drive from Arusha, Tarangire is conveniently located for visitors traveling through the Northern Tanzanian safari circuit, including routes to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. The park lies between the Masai steppe meadows to the southeast and the Great Rift Valley lakes to the north and west.

Wildlife and Scenery

Tarangire is famed for its large elephant populations, especially during the peak migration from July to October when up to 5,000 elephants gather. It is possible to witness groups of up to 300 elephants at once. Besides elephants, the park hosts a variety of other mammals such as lions, zebras, and antelopes. The park's vast grasslands and iconic Baobab trees provide a rugged and distinct "Out of Africa" atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

The best time to visit Tarangire is during the dry season from June to October. During these months, wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River, making game viewing easier due to the short grasses and migratory patterns. To observe large herds of elephants, the best period is towards the end of the dry season in September and October. November offers a budget-friendly option, as it is outside peak season but still relatively dry. The low season from late November to May is ideal for bird watching, as the park becomes lush and green.

Climate

The climate in Tarangire is generally pleasant and temperate. The park experiences “long rains” from March to May and “short rains” from November to December, typically in the afternoon rather than throughout the day. The dry season from June to October features clear skies and mild temperatures, with afternoon highs around 26°C (79°F) and cooler nights at approximately 14°C (57°F). Warm clothing is recommended for early morning game drives.

Activities and Attractions in Tarangire National Park

• Game Drives and Walking Tours: Tarangire offers a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, including game drives and walking tours. Visitors can see large elephant herds, with groups sometimes reaching up to 300. Oliver’s Camp provides both walking tours and fly camping safaris.
• Night Game Drives: Night game drives are permitted in the park but only through select accommodations such as Swala and Oliver’s Camp, which meet TANAPA's requirements.
• Balloon Safaris: Hot air balloon safaris provide an exceptional aerial view of the park’s wildlife and scenery, including lions and other animals.
• Bird Watching: With over 500 bird species, Tarangire is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The best birding period is from February to March during the wet season, offering an enriching experience for avian lovers.

Tarangire National Park stands out as a premier safari destination in Tanzania, offering diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique activities for visitors.

7 Days Tanzania Luxury Safari

5 Days Best of Tanzania Safari

4 Days Tanzania Wildlife Safari

3 Days Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater Safari