Herd of African Elephants on the Savannah and a Hot Air Balloon Flying Above Them

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire stands out among its peers thanks to an abundance of two of nature’s giants: African elephants and the peculiar baobab tree.

About Tarangire

Tanzania’s sixth-largest park, Tarangire, established in 1970 and spanning 2,850 km², is named after its ‘warthog river.’ Located off the main safari route, it provides a distinct experience, featuring unique wildlife like the fringe-eared oryx.

Tarangire offers a tranquil safari due to its lower tourist numbers, famed for its abundant elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Wildlife concentrates near the river during the dry season, drawn by its consistent water supply.

Dry season brings together large animal groups, while rains scatter wildlife and hinder travel. Yet, Tarangire’s serene ambiance and diverse wildlife make it a cherished, less-crowded safari destination.

Highlights

Explore Tarangire’s wild beauty with exciting game drives, riverside birdwatching, and enriching cultural encounters with local villages.

Diverse wildlife

Elephants

Tarangire hosts massive elephant gatherings, reaching 3,000 in the dry season, with herds up to 300. Superb wildlife viewing is consistent throughout the year.

Baobab Trees

Tarangire features numerous unique baobab trees, and visitors can even explore the interior of the notable ‘Poacher’s Hide’ tree.

Bird-watching

For bird enthusiasts, Tarangire boasts over 500 species, with rare locals and seasonal visitors.

Predetor

Predators

Lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas are commonly seen, with a potential sighting of rare African wild dogs.

Unusual Species

Unusual Species

Encounter diverse wildlife, including fringe-eared oryx, rare Coke’s hartebeests, gerenuk, dik-dik, and Grant’s gazelles.

Rock Paintings

Hundreds of prehistoric human creations are located, mainly in the Kolo district, adjacent to the park.

Different areas of the Tarangire

4 Days 3 Nights Camping Budget Safari
5 Days Tanzania Safari Experience
Lioness captures zebra in a dramatic scene on Kenya's savanna. Wildlife in action.

The Tarangire River in Tanzania supports the park’s wildlife, triggering a mini-migration as other waters recede, drawing predators. With hippos, crocodiles, diverse birds, and leopards, its fertile banks are a constant habitat, offering Serengeti-like wildlife views within Tanzania.

In Tanzania, Tarangire’s entrance and airstrip are near the Tarangire River. Travelers cross grasslands with baobabs, then enter hills overlooking Manyara Lake. Lake Burungi attracts wildlife during rains, and Silale Swamps in Tanzania host a resident lion pride.

In Tanzania’s Tarangire, the Gursi Plains’ rich grasslands and acacia woods attract elephants, buffalos, and herbivores, which then draw lions and hyenas. Near Kitibong Hills, this area is prime for spotting Tanzania’s endangered African wild dogs.

In Tanzania’s Tarangire, the south provides a secluded wilderness experience with limited facilities and fewer visitors. This region is ideal for walking safaris, cheetah and ostrich sightings, and abundant waterbirds in wet-season swamps. However, seasonal flooding can make roads impassable.

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Weather and Climate

January & February – Following the short rains, a dry period happens, though its timing is unpredictable.

March – May – During the ‘long rains,’ daily showers are typical, though rarely continuous. Expect frequent cloudy skies, with April and May bringing colder temperatures from passing cold fronts.

June – October – Dry weather is typical, with temperatures fluctuating between 14°C and 26°C.

November – December – The ‘short rains’ are an unpredictable wet period, lasting up to four weeks, with brief daily showers. Daytime highs are around 28°C, dropping to 16°C at night.

Activities

Engage in Tarangire’s varied adventures, from exciting safaris to cultural visits, and fully appreciate its wildlife and scenic wonders.

Game Drives

Departing during the cooler, wildlife-active hours, you’ll explore in a specialized safari vehicle with a knowledgeable guide.

Hot Air Balloon Trips

Enjoy a truly memorable early morning adventure, gliding silently over the wildlife below.

Night Game Drives

With authorized operators, night drives allow for viewing the park’s nocturnal wildlife, including civets and aardvarks.

Diverse wildlife

Maasai and Barabaig Cultural Experiences

Experience a captivating glimpse into age-old traditions with visits to local homesteads.

Rock Paintings

A day trip to the Kolo area offers the chance to see numerous prehistoric art pieces on the rocks.

Bird Watching

With 500+ bird species, including unique locals and seasonal migrants, is a haven for birdwatchers.