About the Park

Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the country’s most underrated wildlife destinations. Covering around 2,850 square kilometers, it lies about 120 kilometers southwest of Arusha and forms part of the northern safari circuit. The park takes its name from the Tarangire River, which flows through it and becomes a lifeline for wildlife during the dry season. Known for its sweeping savannas dotted with ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire offers an authentic, less-crowded safari experience with rich scenery and diverse wildlife.

Wildlife & Habitat

Tarangire is renowned for its massive elephant populations, especially during the dry months when herds gather along the river. The park also supports large numbers of zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, giraffe, impala, eland, and hartebeest, as well as predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. If lucky, visitors may spot African wild dogs or the rare greater kudu. The birdlife is exceptional, with over 500 recorded species, including yellow-collared lovebirds, lilac-breasted rollers, and ostriches. The landscape transitions from open grassland to acacia woodland and swampy floodplains, creating varied habitats for wildlife year-round.

Safari Experience

Safari in Tarangire is tranquil and scenic, with fewer vehicles compared to nearby parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. The park is ideal for game drives, both morning and late afternoon, offering great chances to see large herds near the Tarangire River. Walking safaris are available in designated areas with armed guides, providing a closer look at the land and its smaller inhabitants. Night drives in nearby conservancies offer opportunities to see nocturnal species such as civets, genets, and bushbabies. In the dry season, the park’s riverbeds and waterholes attract huge concentrations of animals, making for spectacular photography.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (June to October) is the best time to visit Tarangire National Park, as wildlife gathers in large numbers around the Tarangire River. The landscape is open, making sightings easy and rewarding. The wet season (November to May) transforms the park into a lush green paradise filled with migratory birds, newborn animals, and fewer tourists—ideal for photographers and bird enthusiasts.

How to Reach

Tarangire is about 120 kilometers from Arusha, roughly a 2–3-hour drive along the Arusha–Dodoma road. The park can also be reached via charter flights from Arusha or other safari destinations such as Serengeti, Lake Manyara, or Ngorongoro. The main entrance is the Tarangire Gate, near the village of Kwa Kuchinja.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options range from luxury tented camps and mid-range lodges to budget campsites. Popular stays include Tarangire Safari Lodge, Oliver’s Camp, Tarangire Treetops, and Sangaiwe Tented Lodge. Many lodges offer panoramic views of the savanna or are set near the river, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing even from your verandah.

Travel Tips/Park Rules

  • Carry binoculars and a good camera for wildlife and bird photography.

  • Avoid driving off-road, as it disturbs wildlife and damages vegetation.

  • Follow park speed limits and always stay inside your vehicle during game drives.

  • Bring insect repellent, especially during the wet season.

  • Respect wildlife maintain a safe distance and keep noise to a minimum.

  • Visit nearby Maasai villages or community projects for a deeper cultural experience.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Tarangire faces challenges like poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. TANAPA and conservation partners work with surrounding communities to promote coexistence and protect wildlife corridors connecting Tarangire to Manyara and beyond. Travelers can support these efforts by choosing eco-friendly lodges, minimizing waste, and contributing to local conservation initiatives. Every responsible visit helps preserve Tarangire’s elephants, baobabs, and breathtaking wilderness for generations to come.