Tarangire National Park
Why Visit: Discover Tanzania’s wildlife oasis where the Tarangire River flows year-round, drawing massive herds of animals through the dry season and beyond.
Tarangire National Park covers 2,850 sq km of spectacular wilderness about 118 km southwest of Arusha. It is renowned for its massive elephant herds and the only place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope like oryx and gerenuk are regularly seen. Even in the harsh dry season, the Tarangire River remains a vital water source, attracting thousands of animals from across the region.
Wildlife Highlights
- Elephants: Large herds roam the park throughout the year, scraping at dry riverbeds to access water underground.
- Other Mammals: Wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland migrate between lush plains in the wet season and the river in the dry season.
- Predators: Lions and leopards lounge in shady tree branches, stealthily watching their prey.
Birdlife Paradise
Tarangire boasts over 550 bird species, the most breeding bird species recorded in any single habitat worldwide. Notable birds include:
- Kori bustard (the heaviest flying bird)
- Ostrich (the world’s largest bird)
- Yellow-collared lovebird
- Rufous-tailed weaver
- Ashy starling
Bird watchers will delight in flocks of colourful species, while dwarf mongoose colonies and red-and-yellow barbets frequent termite mounds scattered across the park.
Getting There & Activities
- Location: 118 km (75 miles) southwest of Arusha, accessible by surfaced road and near to Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti.
- Access: Easy drives or charter flights from Arusha and Serengeti.
- Activities: Guided walking safaris, game drives, and cultural visits to Maasai and Barabaig villages. Explore ancient rock paintings near Kolo on the Dodoma Road.
Best Time to Visit
While Tarangire is a year-round destination, the dry season from June to September offers the most impressive wildlife gatherings.
Accommodation
The park and surrounding area offer a range of accommodations, including lodges, tented camps, and campsites—from luxury options inside the park to exclusive camps just outside its borders.
Plan Your Tarangire Safari
Daigle Tours can craft your ideal Tarangire adventure with expert guides and carefully selected accommodations. Contact us to start planning your Unforgettable Tanzanian Safari Experience!
