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Tanzania safari destination
Tarangire National Park
Giant baobabs, a life-giving river and some of the largest elephant herds in Tanzania. Plan a Tarangire safari with a local East African team.
Location
Manyara Region, Tanzania
Size
About 2,850 sq km
Ideal stay
1 to 2 nights
Best time
June to October
Famous for
Elephants and baobabs
Elephant country among the baobabs
Tarangire National Park covers about 2,850 square kilometres of northern Tanzania, roughly two hours southwest of Arusha. It is named after the Tarangire River, which flows through the park and becomes the only permanent water in the area during the dry season.
From June to October, wildlife from the surrounding region crowds the river, and Tarangire holds some of the largest gatherings of elephants in Tanzania. Ancient baobab trees, some many centuries old, rise above the bush, and the park records around 550 bird species, making it a favourite with birders.
Tarangire is often the first stop on a northern circuit, followed by Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. Our 5 day Tanzania budget safari covers all four parks.
Why a Tarangire safari belongs on your itinerary
Six reasons Tarangire is one of Tanzania’s most underrated parks.
Huge elephant herds
Some of the largest elephant gatherings in Tanzania in the dry season.
Ancient baobabs
Giant baobab trees give the park its distinctive look.
Tarangire River
A lifeline that draws herds from far and wide in the dry months.
Excellent birding
Around 550 recorded bird species, including many endemics.
Big cats
Lion and leopard are seen regularly along the river.
Close to Arusha
An easy first stop on a northern Tanzania safari.
When to visit Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is at its best in the dry season, when wildlife gathers along the river.
June to October
Dry season
Huge herds of elephant and other wildlife crowd the river.
- Peak season rates
January to February
Short dry season
Green landscapes and newborn animals, with good birding.
- Mid season rates
March to May
Long rains
Wildlife spreads out and some tracks can be muddy.
- Lowest rates of the year
November to December
Short rains
Fresh grass and migrant birds arriving in the park.
- Great for birding
Wildlife you can expect to see in Tarangire
Tarangire’s dry season brings an impressive variety of animals to the river. Buffalo, wildebeest and impala are common too.
- Signature species
Elephant
Large family herds gather along the Tarangire River in the dry season.
- Tarangire River
- Best June to October
- Big cat
Lion
Prides rest in the shade near the river and hunt the passing herds.
- Riverbanks
- Most active at dawn and dusk
- Resident
Zebra
Herds graze the grassland and come down to drink at the river.
- Grassland
- Seen all year
- Resident
Giraffe
Giraffes browse acacia trees across the park.
- Acacia woodland
- Seen all year
Things to do in Tarangire
Tarangire offers classic game drives and a few special experiences.
Hot air balloon safari
Float over the baobabs and the river at sunrise.
Guided game drives
Follow the river in search of elephants, lions and giraffe.
Baobab photography
Photograph ancient baobabs against the evening sky.
Silale Swamp
Visit the swamp where elephants and buffalo gather to feed.
Walking safari
Join an armed ranger for a guided walk outside the park boundary.
Planning your Tarangire safari
Practical details to help you plan your visit.
Getting to Tarangire
- From Arusha: about 120 km, around 2 hours by road.
- On a circuit: Tarangire is usually the first stop before Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro.
- By air: light aircraft can land at the park’s airstrip.
Where to stay
- Inside the park: lodges and tented camps near the river.
- Outside the park: lodges and camps close to the gate, often at lower prices.
- Budget safaris: many visit on a day trip and stay near Mto wa Mbu.
Good to know
- Tsetse flies: avoid dark blue and black clothing and use insect repellent.
- Park fees: check whether fees are included in your quote.
- Health: Tarangire is a malaria area, so speak to your doctor about prevention.
Tarangire safari packages
Safaris that include Tarangire with the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara.
- 5 Days ,4 Nights
- Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro
Tarangire safari questions
Answers to the questions travellers ask us most. Still unsure? Send us your question and our team will reply.
What is Tarangire National Park known for?
It is known for large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees and excellent dry season game viewing along the Tarangire River.
When is the best time to visit Tarangire?
June to October, when wildlife gathers along the river and the elephant herds are largest.
How far is Tarangire from Arusha?
About 120 km, roughly 2 hours by road.
How many days do you need in Tarangire?
One full day or one night is enough for most visitors on a northern circuit.
Can you see the Big Five in Tarangire?
Elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo live in the park. Rhino are not found here, so many safaris add the Ngorongoro Crater.
Can Tarangire be combined with other parks?
Yes. Tarangire pairs well with Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti.
Start planning your Tarangire safari
Tell us your dates, group size and budget, and our team will plan a northern Tanzania safari that fits.
