Tarangire National Park

About Tarangire National Park

Located in northern Tanzania, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southwest of Arusha, Tarangire National Park is a hidden gem known for its iconic baobab-dotted landscapes and one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa. Covering roughly 2,850 square kilometers, the park offers a classic African safari atmosphere with fewer crowds than nearby Serengeti or Ngorongoro.

Highlights

During the dry season (June to October), the Tarangire River becomes a lifeline for wildlife, attracting vast herds of elephants, wildebeests, zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are frequently seen following the migrating herds, while over 500 bird species make Tarangire a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s sweeping plains, dotted with monumental baobab trees and framed by distant hills, provide unforgettable scenery and spectacular photographic opportunities.

Getting There

Tarangire is easily accessible by a two-hour drive from Arusha along a good tarmac road. It is often combined with Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater as part of Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit. Charter flights can also be arranged to Kuro Airstrip inside the park for those seeking a quicker or more exclusive journey.

What to Do

Visitors can enjoy full-day game drives, bird watching, and guided walking safaris with armed rangers to explore the park’s smaller wonders up close. For a unique experience, some lodges offer night game drives and balloon safaris, revealing the park’s magic from above or after dark. Whether you’re observing elephants marching across golden plains or gazing at the sunset through ancient baobabs, Tarangire offers an authentic and visually stunning safari adventure.