Tarangire National Park
Big herds of elephants, ancient baobab trees and the Tarangire River, which draws wildlife from far around in the dry season. Tarangire is often quieter than the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and many guests say it was their favourite.
At a glance
- Size
- About 2,850 km²
- Getting there
- About 2 hours by road from Arusha
- Best for
- Elephants, baobabs, birds
- Best time
- June to October for big herds; November to May for birds and green landscapes
Why go
In the dry season the Tarangire River is the only reliable water for miles, and elephants, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo and giraffe gather along it, followed by lions and leopards. Huge baobab trees, some many hundreds of years old, stand over the savannah. With over 500 bird species, Tarangire is also one of the best places in the north for birdwatching.
Highlights
- Large elephant herds along the Tarangire River
- Ancient baobab trees
- Over 500 bird species
- Quieter game drives than the busiest parks
- Walking safaris in the areas around the park (on request)
The conservation story
Tarangire’s wildlife does not stay inside the park. In the wet season many animals spread out across the Maasai Steppe and into community land, using old routes that link Tarangire with Lake Manyara and beyond. As farms and settlements grow, these corridors are under pressure. Some neighbouring communities now run wildlife management areas, where they earn an income from tourism in return for keeping land open for wildlife.
How your visit helps. The park and conservation fees in your trip price go to the authority that protects this place, paying for rangers, anti-poaching patrols and park upkeep. We hire local guides and staff and use locally owned suppliers wherever we can.
Trips that visit Tarangire
From US$4,753 per person
Private trip
From US$2,300 per person
Private trip
From US$3,534 per person
Private trip
From US$6,574 per person
Private trip
When to go
June to October is the classic time, when the river draws in the big herds. From November to May the park is green, many animals spread out, and migrant birds arrive. It is a good stop on the first or last day of a northern safari, as it is close to Arusha.
Where to stay
Lodges and camps we work with here include Ang’ata Tarangire Camp, Nimali Tarangire and Maramboi Tented Lodge. We suggest the best fit for your budget and dates in your personal itinerary and quote.
Combine with: Lake Manyara · Ngorongoro · Serengeti
Ready to plan your visit to Tarangire?
Tell us your dates and how you like to travel, and we will send you a personal itinerary and quote. No obligation to book.
Our partners
Adventure That Gives Back
Private safaris, treks and beach holidays across Tanzania, planned by a Tanzanian team.
Forest Hill, Kihimbwa St, Morogoro, Tanzania
Talk to us
WhatsApp +255 622 191 154
ecolegacy@ecolegacy-africa.com
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