Enjoy flexible and secure travel with Ascend Tanzania's 100% refundable deposits

Tarangire National Park - Land of Giants, Home of Ancient Baobabs

Follow the Trails of Majestic Beasts

Tarangire National Park showcases a landscape rich in diversity, highlighted by termite mounds and mysterious baobabs. This park is one of the least visited on the northern circuit, yet it is an essential stop during your Tanzania Safari Tours. Often, it acts as a brief stop on the way to Ngorongoro and the Tarangire.

Named after the "Tarangire River," which is the main water source for the area's diverse flora and fauna, the park is distinguished by its giant baobab trees that set it apart from other national parks.

Tarangire is second only to the Tarangire in terms of wildlife density during Tanzania’s dry season, offering top-notch wildlife viewing. Famous for its large elephant herds, sometimes reaching up to 3000, the park is also home to tree-climbing lions and pythons.

The park is a haven for a wide array of animals, including impalas, giraffes, dik-diks, warthogs, waterbucks, zebras, wildebeests, mongooses, mandrills, and monkeys. Rare species such as African wild dogs, kudu, oryx, and gerenuk, typically elusive in other northern circuit parks, are also visible here.

With over 550 bird species, Tarangire is a dream location for bird watchers. Frequent sightings include yellow-collared lovebirds, Kori bustards, stocking-thighed ostriches, and hornbills. Make sure to visit this exceptional park during your Tanzania Travel!

Read More

Highlights

  • Elephant Haven: Home to one of Tanzania’s largest elephant populations.
  • Baobab Wonders: Iconic, ancient baobab trees dot the landscape.
  • Great Migration View: Part of the route for the annual Great Migration.
  • Rich Birdlife: Over 500 bird species, including the vibrant yellow-collared lovebird.
  • Scenic Diversity: Varied landscapes, from savannahs to swamps, teeming with wildlife.

Offering Trek And Safari Tours From Past 13 Years

How To Go To Tarangire

Fly into Kilimanjaro Airport, then a two-hour scenic drive to Tarangire's gate

Accessing Tarangire National Park is simple, as it's a prominent stop on the Northern safari circuit, often paired with trips to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Here are the best ways to reach this iconic destination:

  • By Air- The main entry point is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), about 50 km (31 mi) from Arusha, the usual starting point for most Tarangire National Park Safaris. You can also fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and catch a connecting flight to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
  • By Road - A scenic 2-hour drive from Arusha will take you directly to Tarangire’s entrance gate, with only the last 7 km (4 mi) being unpaved.
  • Nearby Parks - Tarangire is also a perfect launch point for visiting nearby parks. It’s about 100 km (60 mi) to Lake Manyara National Park and 180 km (110 mi) to the Ngorongoro Crater.

Getting to Tarangire is efficient whether by air or road. Regular flights link from Arusha and the Serengeti, and the roads are in good condition, ensuring a smooth journey. This ease of access makes Tarangire a prime location to start your Tanzania Safari Tour.

All About Tarangire

A detailed guide on timings, attractions, and activities follows

Best Time to Visit Tarangire

The optimal period for wildlife spotting in Tarangire National Park is from July to November, aligning with the latter part of the Dry season.

During these months, animals congregate around the Tarangire River, making it an ideal time for Tarangire Safaris.

Conversely, many animals migrate out of the park during the Wet season, spanning November to May, and wildlife viewing tends to be less rewarding.

  • Peak Viewing: July to November is the best time to visit Tarangire to watch animals.
  • High Season: The park sees its highest number of visitors from June to October.
  • Low Season: In April and May, visitor numbers drop, and you might find lower rates.
  • Best Weather: The weather from June to October is mostly dry, enhancing the safari experience.
  • Worst Weather: March and April experience the peak of the Wet season, with the heaviest rainfall.

What to See Tarangire

Tarangire National Park is celebrated for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

The park boasts the largest elephant population in Tanzania, with herds gathering around the Tarangire River during the dry season from June to October. This period offers an excellent opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The seasonal migration here is another highlight, drawing large numbers of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles to the park. This migration is a spectacular display of nature and provides incredible game-viewing experiences.

Additionally, Tarangire is a haven for bird enthusiasts, home to over 550 species, including the vibrant yellow-collared lovebirds and the towering Kori bustards.

The iconic baobab trees, known as "Trees of Life," are prominent Tarangire Safari Attractions. These trees store water in their vast trunks, providing relief to many animals during the arid months.

These features collectively underscore the rich biodiversity and unique beauty of Tarangire, making it a top choice for visitors seeking to explore Tanzania's natural wonders.

Activities To Do In Tarangire

Tarangire National Park in Tanzania's Manyara region is a great place for visitors to see wildlife and experience nature. There are so many fun and exciting Things to Do in Tarangire National Park that make every visit memorable.

  • Watch elephants and other animals by the river.
  • See more than 500 types of birds.
  • Check out the beautiful trees, swamps, and rivers for sightseeing.
  • Learn about the Maasai people and their culture.
  • Walk through nature with a guide and see the scenery.

Explore all these Tarangire Safari Activities and more when you visit the park. Whether you’re watching majestic elephants or learning about local cultures, there's something for everyone. Join a Tarangire safari and discover the excitement and beauty of this unique area.

Customise Your Perfect Tanzania
Safari Journey!

Dive into Tanzania's untamed beauty with custom safaris—where every snapshot is a postcard from the wild!
Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with a local, certified guide

Camping

We provide Kailas X3 III alpine tents with vestibules

Meals

All nutritious meals while on the trek.

Transfers & Porterage

To and from the airport and everything in between

Permits

All permit fees and taxes

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by nature, join our small groups

Animal In Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park boasts impressive wildlife, including large herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, and elusive lions. Spotting rare bird species like the yellow-collared lovebird adds to the excitement. Witness the park’s diverse ecosystems, from savannahs to swamps. Plan your adventure today and experience Tarangire’s incredible wildlife up close!
Giraffe

Common

Hippo

Rare

Elephant

Common

Cheeta

Rare

Buffalo

Common

Zebra

Common

Black Rhino

Rare

Hyena

Common

Lion

Rare

Leopard

Common

What Is The Best Month To Visit Tanzania

Know more about the Perfect Season for Your Tanzanian Safari Magic!

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

January is a lush and vibrant time in the Serengeti, marking the peak of the calving season. The southern plains come alive with newborn wildebeests and zebras, offering a spectacular wildlife experience. The weather is warm with occasional showers, creating a green and flourishing landscape. This period is ideal for observing young animals and their interactions with predators, all while enjoying a relatively quiet park with fewer tourists.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

February continues the calving season with a high concentration of newborns across the southern Serengeti. The lush vegetation supports large herds of wildebeest and zebra, and predator activity remains high, making it an exciting time for wildlife viewing. The weather remains warm with occasional rains, and the park is still less crowded, providing excellent opportunities for intimate wildlife experiences.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

145MM

By March, the calving season begins to wind down, and the herds start moving northward. The landscape remains green and vibrant due to ongoing rains, but the vegetation starts to thicken, which can make wildlife spotting more challenging. However, the park’s reduced number of visitors means a more serene safari experience, and the start of the migration northward offers exciting prospects for observing the moving herds.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

340MM

April is characterized by heavy rains, making it one of the wettest months in the Serengeti. The landscape transforms into a lush paradise, but the roads can become muddy and challenging to navigate. Wildlife viewing can be more difficult due to dense vegetation and wet conditions, but the park’s reduced tourist numbers offer a quieter experience and a unique opportunity to see the park in its most verdant state.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

170MM

May continues with the long rains, maintaining the park’s lush, green appearance. The increased vegetation can obscure wildlife, making sightings more difficult. However, this is a less crowded time, providing a peaceful safari experience. As the migration herds start moving north, there are opportunities to witness the beginnings of the migration, offering a quieter but still engaging wildlife experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

June marks the beginning of the dry season, with warm, pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The landscape starts to dry out, and wildlife concentrations increase around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The Great Migration typically begins its journey northward, and the park’s clearer conditions provide excellent opportunities for viewing river crossings and large gatherings of wildlife.

Avg Temperature

18°C

Avg Rainfall

20MM

July is one of the prime months to visit the Serengeti, as the dry season is in full swing. The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti, where dramatic river crossings occur. The dry conditions ensure clear visibility and easier access to wildlife, though it is also the height of the tourist season. The warm weather and high concentrations of wildlife make for an unforgettable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

August continues with excellent conditions for wildlife viewing as the Great Migration remains in the northern Serengeti. The dry, warm weather makes for clear skies and easy access to the park’s various wildlife hotspots. This is an ideal time for witnessing the spectacular river crossings and observing large predator populations, though it can be quite busy with tourists.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

In September, the dry season persists, providing excellent conditions for game viewing. The Great Migration herds are still moving south, and wildlife remains concentrated around water sources. The dry weather and open landscapes make it easier to spot animals, and the crowds start to thin out slightly, offering a more relaxed safari experience compared to peak months.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

October marks the transition from the dry season to the short rains. The Great Migration herds continue their southward movement, and wildlife is concentrated around remaining waterholes. The landscape begins to show signs of green as the rains approach, and the park sees fewer tourists, making for a more tranquil and enjoyable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

125MM

November brings the start of the short rains, with occasional showers and a rapidly greening landscape. The migration herds continue moving south, and the park’s transformation into a lush environment offers beautiful scenery. The reduced number of visitors and vibrant landscape provide a serene and picturesque safari experience.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

December features ongoing short rains, which further enhance the park’s lush and green appearance. The calving season begins in the southern Serengeti, with herds returning and newborn animals becoming more common. The warm weather and vibrant environment, combined with fewer tourists, create an ideal setting for observing new life and enjoying a peaceful safari.

Fred Namwandu

Online
LOCATED IN TANZANIA LOCATED IN TANZANIA

Need Help to Plan Your Dream Safari with Personalized Dates?

Talk to Us. Our Experts are just a Click Away!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tarangire

Learn answers about Tarangire—your guide to wildlife, hikes, and park secrets.

Tarangire National Park is in northern Tanzania, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) southwest of Arusha. It’s part of Tanzania’s popular northern safari circuit, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The park is renowned for its large elephant population and iconic baobab trees. During the dry season, huge herds of elephants gather around the Tarangire River, which serves as a vital water source.

In addition to elephants, you can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species. The park is also home to over 550 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Activities include game drives, guided walking safaris, and birdwatching. The park is also known for its cultural visits to nearby Maasai and other local communities.

A 1-2 day visit is ideal for exploring the park, but a longer stay allows for deeper immersion, especially for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter safari experience.

Grab Your Safari Deal Today!

Find the best safari packages and go explore Tanzania!

Visit Tanzania’s Top Destinations

Experience breathtaking adventures by exploring Tanzania’s top spots now!
Or Call Us At+255763586729

WE ARE RANKED AMONG TOP #10 on the TripAdvisor

Cian O'L / Feb 2020

"Excellent Company To Climb With"

I booked my Kilimanjaro climb (6 Day Machame route) with Ascend Tanzania because I was travelling solo and on a budget

Michael W / Dec 2021

"Mechame trail ascent"

I hiked Killimanjaro with a local company called Ascend Tanzania. I could not recommend a company more highly.

Neetha M / Oct 2021

"Successful summit for first time"

‪I had no idea what I was signing up for when I decided, without any prior experience of a trek of this calibre

Matija / Jul 2022

"Greatest mountain experience so far"

Climbing Kilimanjaro was one of my greatest mountain experience so far.

Nazar_y88 / Mar 2023

"The poley of poley's"

Ascend is a top-notch Kilimanjaro tour guide company that I would highly recommend

Saba A / Jan 2023

"The most favourite part of my experience"

Ascend tanzania is an affordable company run by the most efficient local people!